Dare to Believe!

That was the theme this month at the annual Youth Day, sponsored by the Religion Education

The Viator contingent of more than 75 youth who attended Youth Day in LA

Congress and the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. This year’s rally drew more than 10,000 young people, including more than 75 from the Las Vegas Diocese.

They traveled to Anaheim for the interactive event. The Viatorian delegation included members of St. Viator Catholic Community and Bishop Gorman High School’s Campus Ministry office, both in Las Vegas.

Viatorians who accompanied them were Fr. Bill Haesaert, Br. Rob Robertson and Associates Anthony Gugino, Kim Martinez, Brian Barrett, Rosy Hartz and Deborah Perez.

Of special note were two contingents of young people led by former leaders of the Viatorian Youth Congress. Angela Romero is a youth minister at Little flower in Reno and Meghan Hernandez leads young people at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton in Las Vegas.

The day began with a Mass celebrated by Archbishop José Gomez of Los Angeles followed by a keynote speaker challenging Catholic youth to “Dare to Believe.”

Viatorians who accompanied them included: (L-R) Associates Anthony Gugino and Kim Martinez; Fr. Bill Haesaert, Br. Rob Robertson, and Associates Brian Barrett, Rosy Hartz and Deborah Perez

“Two powerful sessions challenged teens to look at those on the margins, including immigrants and those who are in need,” Br. Rob said.

He added that teens were energized by uplifting music, powerful speakers and the support of thousands of other teens who share in their commitment to their Catholic faith.

“It’s just worth it to see young people get excited about the church,” Br. Rob adds. “The electricity in the arena — with 10,000 high school students singing and really participating in the liturgy — helps people know that there is a future in their Catholic faith. It’s exciting and a truly wonderful event.”