Recently, I had the privilege of facilitating small group breakout sessions at the Catholic Extension Leadership Summit, which convened 23 young adult Catholics from mission dioceses that receive support from Catholic Extension.

During my preparation, I focused on what my team could get out of the experience. Little did I know that I, too, would be touched in a spiritual way. These young adults are inspiring in their ministries. They are mature, living examples of the Catholic Church.  One of my small group members, Liliana, spoke of how she taught a little boy the meaning of the rosary.  Witnessing him say the prayer aloud at his First Holy Communion impacted Liliana’s life and inspires her to continue educating children throughout the Diocese of Stockton. Isn’t it coincidental how we both found inspiration in a younger generation?

Leadership Summit attendees discuss ways to strengthen the church.

The two and a half days ended with hope… hope for the future of young adults in the church. Our youth are the future, and these young leaders will help inspire a new generation of spirituality and faith formation. Catholic Extension is looking forward to walking with them on this journey and providing the financial support to continue building faith communities across the United States. Thank you to all those who participated and shared stories. You inspire me!

— Virginia Sara, Assistant Director of Development