What is the purpose of this weekend conference? It’s simple: individual hearts and their journey with Christ. Imperfectly, with mistakes along the way, this weekend is about joining the journey of hearts being pursued by Christ.

The Closing Prayer at Mass says, “… to lead us from former ways to newness of life.” This weekend, a time of restoration, is a beginning point of Jesus leading us to be better than we were before we came. Somewhere along the way, God touched your heart this weekend. Maybe it was during Mass, Adoration, Reconciliation, or in the words of a talk. What He has in store for you next a mystery. The graces from this weekend will bear fruit in the days and years to come. There is a whole journey of life and grace ahead. The key to this weekend is what you do next.

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And… we’re back for week 2!

We began our weekend the best way Catholics know how: with Mass! Bishop Rice was the celebrant for our volunteer Mass for the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Today is one of many days our Church dedicates to the Blessed Mother. Who better models missionary discipleship? No one.

Mary: a woman pondering and a woman on the go.

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What does our faith mean to us – both as individuals and as a Church?

In today’s first reading, we hear the story of the prophet Amos. Amos was called by God, but he didn’t desire to be a prophet. He didn’t know how to prophesy when God called him, but he still said yes. He trusted that God would provide what was necessary. Amos went and told God’s people to reform, turn away from their sins, and be faithful to God. King Amaziah sent Amos away, because like many of us, he didn’t want to hear a challenging message. But Amos never gave up, because he knew God’s call for him was real. Even though it was difficult to pursue God’s calling, Amos stayed faithful.

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This morning during Mass, Fr. Mike reminded us that even though our personal sins caused the death of Jesus, His death for our salvation is the best thing that could have ever happened.

Just like the story of Joseph in Genesis, God took the worst season in Joseph’s life to save many. Joseph’s brothers attempted to kill him out of jealousy, but decided to sell him into slavery instead. Shortly after he was sold into slavery, he was imprisoned. During his imprisonment, people became aware of his gifts of discernment, and he began working for the Pharaoh. During his time with Pharaoh, he navigated the country through a devastating famine. God used the worst thing that ever happened to Joseph and saved thousands of lives.

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The stage is set. Our volunteers have arrived. The time has come!

At a Votive Mass of St. Joseph offered by Bishop Rice of the Diocese of Springfield-Cape Girardeau, we were reminded that the purpose of this conference is to bring young people closer to Christ. During Mass, we prayed that everything that happens at the conference helps the teens, youth ministers, chaperones, speaking team, and volunteers to have a deeper faith. The truth is, that doesn’t just happen – it takes effort. It is a gift to have so many wonderful volunteers who understand this challenge and are willing to serve.

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