ELLICOTT CITY, MD –  “So much of what we do is focused on young people,” said Father Erik Arnold, Our Lady of Perpetual Help pastor at  he said. “The more they are offered retreats, Eucharistic adoration and holy hours, the more they want to learn more,” said Kristin Fisher, director of middle school youth ministry and confirmation preparation. “They want to know really in-depth teachings of the church.” Erin Cooney, director of high school youth ministry and young adult ministry, said older parishioners are excited to see young people taking their faith seriously and attending Mass regularly. “They have so much passion that they set the rest of the parish on fire for their faith,” she said. More here.

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Students from across Staten Island were honored yesterday for their impact on their schools and communities by the Catholic Youth Organization. Thirty-eight youngsters — some who have survived a family tragedy, others who helped others persevere through a personal crisis — were recognized with the Shining Star Youth Award. More here.

DIMAPUR, INDIA — The 5th  Catholic Youth Meet 2008 was held at Don Bosco School, Dibrugarh, from 8 – 11 October. Around 2256 youth mainly from all the parishes of the diocese of Dibrugarh and some delegates from Kohima diocese are participating in the meet, with the theme: Our future is in our hands, make it with your own hands; make your tomorrow by working today. More here.

MONTICELLO, IN — Youth of all ages are preparing for the “Praise Fest” outdoor concert Sunday, Oct. 12 at the church parking lot. The event is sponsored by Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church. Four bands with DJ Miller, Awake, God save Bob and Hands Held High will perform on stage with a special spiritual message between the sets. “We wanted to find a way to reach the youth of today to help them relate to Christ and his salvation” said Susan Jordan, a parish youth leader and coordinator for the event. More here

BOSTON, MA — Hundreds of Catholic youth attended the Archdiocese of Boston’s first rally for young people on Respect Life Sunday, Oct. 5. Youth from several schools and parishes in the archdiocese clapped and moved along to the music provided by the choir from Cardinal Spellman High School in Brockton. Then they cheered for Father Stan Fortuna, CFR, a rap and jazz musician. More here.

Got news on Catholic Youth Ministry?  Please e-mail let me know for a future Tuesday report!