Diocesan youths to visit Indianapolis for virtual papal audience

Catholic Herald Staff Report

The invitation to the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis Nov. 22-25. COURTESY

NCYC25-MediaKit-Postcard_WEB

Excitement is growing as the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis welcomes a very special guest.

Pope Leo XIV will give a live televised address on the theme of hope, unity and peace to attendees of the conference Nov. 21 at Lucas Oil Stadium at 10:15 a.m. Event organizers said it marks the first time that a pope will directly engage U.S. youth in a live digital encounter. The event will also be livestreamed throughout the world by EWTN.

The diocesan Office of Youth, Campus, and Young Adult Ministries has been working with parishes and schools to help students attend the event in person. At this point at least 16 students from St. Paul VI Catholic High School in Chantilly and Bishop O’Connell High School in Arlington are going.

“I’m looking forward to going to the NCYC for a chance to step away from everyday life and reflect on my relationship with God and to be inspired by others who share the same faith,” said Camila Soruco Franco, a sophomore at Bishop O’Connell. “I know it’s going to be an unforgettable experience filled with worship and joy.”   

In a letter to brother bishops, Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson J. Perez, episcopal advisor for the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry, said that “Pope Leo XIV is breaking historic ground.”

“I invite you to share this incredible opportunity with your parish communities, schools, families, and friends so that they can experience this historic and transformational moment in the life of our church,” said Archbishop Perez. “Please take this opportunity to embolden them, to support their journey as missionary disciples for Christ, and to express solidarity with Pope Leo.”

All students in grades 6-12 are encouraged to watch the livestream.

Find out more 

To register, go to bit.ly/42I0Tn5.

Related Articles