Viatorians have been educating young people — and making a difference in their lives — since their community was founded, more than 150 years ago.

Ayteh, second from right, with Associate Deb Perez and the other teens from Cristo Rey St. Viator headed to NCYC.

Their commitment to the faith development of young people, never waivers but it always helps when they hear back about the impact they made.

That was the case today, when members of the Provincial Council received a letter from Ayteh, a sophomore at Cristo Rey St. Viator College Prep in Las Vegas.

She was among a group of students from Las Vegas who traveled to Indianapolis for the National Catholic Youth Conference. Associates Rosy Hartz and Deborah Perez accompanied them as chaperones.

“This trip changed me in a way that I never thought could be possible,” Ayteh wrote. “I have learned how to grow my relationship with God.

Teens were moved by the daily Masses with 10,000 other students — and empowering speakers.

“The experience at NCYC was unforgettable,” Ayteh added. “It was an honor not only to be able to attend such an amazing conference that was dedicated to teenagers and God, but to also experience and learn about my religion in a completely new way.”

Ayteh and one of her classmates spoke during the homily at the 5 p.m. Mass on Sunday at St. Viator Parish. Fr. Thomas von Behren, CSV, President of Cristo Rey St. Viator, presided.

“It was a pleasure to hear from them,” Fr. von Behren said. “Their enthusiasm and positive experience was quite evident.”

Ayteh participates in the drama club and serves as sophomore class president at Cristo Rey St. Viator. She also works at McFarling Law Group to help pay her tuition. As a result of her experience at NCYC, she is joining the confirmation preparation class at St. Viator Parish, where she will be confirmed in April.

In thanking the Provincial Council for making the trip possible, Ayteh added: “Your support has let me find a new way and perspective on life. . . I’m learning to implement God in all that I do.”