Franciscan Sister Rochelle Kerkhof shares on her experience with youth and chaperones from Grant Deanery, Nebraska to Steubenville in the Rockies, Denver, CO.
A Youth Conference held in Denver, CO between June 21-23, 2019, hosted nearly 3,000 youth and chaperones in the Crown Plaza Conference Center. Couched in the Franciscan Spirituality of the Steubenville University of Ohio, and centered around the Biblical theme of ‘Belong’ – I John 3:1, students experienced encountering Christ through prayerful Worship Music, the sacrament of Reconciliation, the profound Liturgy of two Masses, powerful catechetical, witness speakers and small group sharing sessions.
Joyful enthusiasm and new found friendships flourished among attendees as the conference drew to its conclusion. For many this was a first-time experience; for some, a repeat visit; for all, a treasured gift of love and acceptance into the family of God’s people-the Catholic Church.
Sister Rochelle Kerkhof, Grant Deanery Youth Minister, facilitated access for this event including 13 students, 4 chaperones and 1 priest from the 9 parishes of the Grant Deanery located in the southwestern corner of the Lincoln, NE, diocese. The prayerful support of many parishioners and event volunteers behind the scenes was the engine that blessed these days with fruitful outcomes.