Steubenville Youth Conference Reflections

Several weeks ago, due to the generosity of several donors within our Catholic community, Fr. Peter led a group of youth to the annual youth conference at Franciscan University of Steubenville. Rather than have Fr. Peter or me write about what happened during the conference, I figured it would be best to have those who attended from our community tell you what they experienced in Steubenville….
 
“Going to the Steubenville Conference was a highlight of the year. It is very inspiring to see how the Catholic faith is still very much alive in the youth and their communities. It was amazing to finally be able to attend again, this time as a chaperone. It was a truly incredible experience, from the participation at the Mass, to the inspirational talks from the speakers. Throughout the conference, there was extreme liveliness and zeal for the faith. I would like to thank everyone that made this experience possible.”   —John Paul Cygan
 
“The Steubenville Conference is always an amazing experience where our faith comes alive.  As a fifth-time participant and group leader of the past conference, this time was no exception. The speakers at the conference and their testimonials were inspirational.  We were challenged to go out and share our faith. Even more inspiring, however, was seeing the faith of all the young people that came. 
 
Adoration is always the highlight of the weekend and always a powerful experience.  During adoration, it is clear that Jesus is at work and acting in our lives.  It is an experience that is impossible to describe. Going to Steubenville was amazing and it was awesome to experience it with our Enchanted Mountain Catholic Community. We want to say a big thank you for all your prayers and support!”
—Joseph Cygan 
 
"I’m very grateful for the chance to attend the Steubenville Conference. Not only did I get to hang out with some great people, I got to know God and my faith better."
 Catherine McAuley 
 
“I can truthfully say that the Steubenville Youth Conference has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. Both times I have attended, my faith and introspection into myself as a Catholic were changed, changed in a way that strengthened my belief and relationship with God. Each time, I have left with my faith renewed and have been strengthened to spread the Word of God. 
 
At the conference, I made this journey alongside my group and thousands of others as well. It really gave me the sense that I am not alone. It was truly inspirational to see so many people gathered, all from different places, lives, and stages of their faith, all united to experience the Glory of God. The highlight of Steubenville for me was adoration. 
 
During adoration I felt a closeness to God which completely reshaped how I saw my relationship with Him. I continue to strive for the closeness in my prayer and at Mass. I would like to especially thank our youth group leaders: Joseph Cygan, Mary Fofanah and Fr. Peter for guiding our group and making Steubenville such an incredible experience, and all members of our group for their kindness, acceptance, and support.”   —Christopher Osgood
 
“There were so many amazing things that happened during the Conference! Some things I enjoyed the most would have to be the music and the environment! Everyone is in a different place with God in their lives, but everyone can feel something through music! The music there is truly uplifting and brings everyone closer in a special way! The environment is different, but there is a certain joy that always comes from it. Meeting new teens your age, that are like you and all celebrating our amazing God is truly a blessing! For some of us, celebrating God becomes more exciting as we come out of our shells, open our eyes, and let the light in. Illuminate!” --Allie Smith 
 
Steubenville was once again a wonderful experience, a great re-focus on our faith, its also very inspiring, seeing thousands of young people kneeling and praising God. It really gives hope for our future and its a great way to keep your faith alive and talk about it with other teens. —Peace, Matthew Wenke