Friday = AMAZING

Friday is in the books and it was an AMAZING day!

We started with our general session and keynote speaker Chris Padget. Chris is hilarious and made all of us laugh - A LOT. But he also talked about his own relationship with our Blessed Mother Mary and how she has been a source of comfort and strength for his family.

Then it was down the block to the Convention Center. Wow! So many people, so many workshop choices! It takes some time to get your bearings as the convention center is pretty big. But thanks to our awesome adult chaperones, the kids found where they were going. Today there were 3 rounds of workshops. Many of students attended a session titled "Love or Lust" by Jason and Crystallina Everet. This married couple talks about chastity and the importance of knowing your self worth, especially when it comes to relationships. All who attended said it really made them think about love and how important it is to give love to the RIGHT person.
Some kids went to listen to Jesse Manibusan. Others to listen to John Angotti. Many spent time in the interactive village doing activities and trading with other kids and checking out all the catholic vendors. There are so many workshops to choose from, and it's 1:01am and I honestly can't remember where all the kids went. Ha!

Tonight was one of the most powerful experiences I have ever had. XLT is praise and worship music, a witness talk and adoration. Catholic musician Matt Maher got us into a prayerful state thru music. Then speaker Mark Hart talked to us about the importance of fostering a relationship with Jesus and how God loved us SO much that he have up His son for us and now God is patiently waiting for us.
Then the blessed sacrament was brought in and exposed. The silence of 24,000 teens was powerful and emotional. Many of our kids were literally moved to tears during this silence in the presence of Jesus. Words cannot describe the feeling but I know it's something the kids will carry home with them.

I was so proud of our group today! Always smiling, even though I know they were tired. Always polite. Always making sure they are checking in with their chaperones. This is an exceptional group of young people!! I am so blessed to know them.

Tomorrow is our last day. We are looking forward to the closing mass which is always the highlight of this journey.
Until then, keep on praying for us!!!

Peace!
Annie