RALLY drew diocesan teens for music, talks and prayer at Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington Oct. 23. The annual event for high schoolers included adoration and Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael F. Burbidge.
During adoration, Bishop Burbidge told the teens to do three things: “Recall your many blessings. Say three times ‘Lord, be merciful to me a sinner.’ Promise to go forth from this RALLY as an ambassador — an apostle — of mercy, trying every day to get better.”
Two sisters, Ra’Asia and En’Dia Uddin from St. Francis de Sales Church in Purcellville, returned to RALLY as Catholics after attending the event last year.
“There is so much I can say about my experience at RALLY, but the words amazing, impactful and moving come to mind first,” said En’Dia. “Last year when I attended RALLY, I wasn’t a Catholic yet, but this year I was blessed with the opportunity of participating again in the wonderful event of RALLY as a teenage Catholic.”
Ra’Asia brought a friend this year. “I was able to explain to her what was happening because of the knowledge I have gained about our faith,” she said. “I am so thankful for this opportunity and my relationship with Jesus is restored and renewed again.”
Bishop Burbidge was impressed by the youths.
“It was inspiring to see so many of high school students from around the diocese at the annual RALLY event,” he said. “I was edified by seeing their love (for) our Eucharistic Lord and joy in being with one another. It is my hope and prayer that their participation at RALLY renewed their enthusiastic commitment to share their faith with others.”
