In June 2025, more than 50 young people from the U.S. and Canada came together in New Jersey for a weekend of connection, prayer, and purpose. Hosted at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, the Claretian Youth and Young Adult Encounter invited participants ages 16 to 25 to reflect on the theme “We Are Pilgrims of Hope.” The weekend included inspiring talks, creative prayer workshops, and moments of worship—all rooted in the questions young people are asking today: Who am I? Where is God calling me? And how can I make a difference?
From learning about different ways to pray—like journaling, music, and Lectio Divina—to hearing a Claretian sister’s testimony about her call to religious life, the gathering created space for honest conversation and spiritual growth. The group bonded over shared meals, explored New York City together, and closed the weekend with a joyful youth-led Mass. Whether Catholic or simply seeking, attendees left with something deeper: a renewed sense of faith, community, and hope for the future.
