St Aloysius teens ‘Fan the Fire’

Oct 10, 2014

St. Aloysius took a teen contingent to Fan the Fire, a Diocesan Youth Rally attended by almost 400 teens from all over Conn. this month. Teens listened to inspiring speakers and a teen testimony, sang contemporary Christian music, attended Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament led by The Most Reverend Frank J. Caggiano and participated in fun and games, including an ice bucket challenge. The day culminated with a Teen Mass celebrated by Bishop Caggiano.

The theme of the day was “Made for More” and teens were challenged to dig into the message. California speaker and beat boxer Paul Kim helped the teens understand how to have a relationship with Christ, and gave a chastity talk. Father Sam Kachuba shared thoughts on God the Father’s love and possible vocation paths teens might follow. Julie Rodgers, a member of the Marian Community of Reconciliation gave teens advice on navigating relationships and Fan the Fire founder, Scott Anthony centered his talk on the Saints and holiness.

Erica Smith, a sophomore at New Canaan High School said, “Of all my three years attending Fan the Fire, this year had to be the most memorable. Having more teens than we’ve ever had from St. A’s and the Bishop made the experience that much better. The speakers made all their inspirational messages relatable and the music couldn’t be more upbeat. The day sends me back to school with a rejuvenated excitement for our faith.”

Smith’s mother, Kara, joined the group as a chaperone and reflected, “Every year Fan the Fire delivers such positive messages to our teens. The entertaining speakers keep everyone engaged and reiterate the values we try to instill in our children. Watching the Bishop carry the Blessed Sacrament during adoration was extremely powerful. First-time teens said they were very surprised by the day and couldn’t believe how much fun they had.”

High school teens and their parents are asked to save the date of Sunday, Sept. 14 for the Annual Youth Ministry Kick Off BBQ, which will be held immediately following the 5 p.m. Teen Mass. Besides dinner, the evening will include games for the teens and a parent information session which will be hosted by Chris Otis, Director of Youth & Family Ministry and Msgr. William J. Scheyd, Pastor.

Source:NcAdvertiser.com