We are wrapping up NCYC coverage. Here’s the brief from the Kansas City Star

KANSAS CITY, MO — Both Finn, bishop of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas said their prayers had been answered for the three-day event, which ends today. They said the young people were having fun and also were attentive to the spiritual messages. Many times people focus on the negative where youths are concerned, Naumann said. “This conference has shown that there are wonderful young people who love God and want to be of service to the world and their fellow human beings,” he said. “It gives us the right perspective of this younger generation and lots of hope.” Read more of Catholic clerics’ prayers hold sway for national youth conference in KC

Catholic Review reporter Matt Palmer was embedded into the ArchBalt delegation traveling to NCYC and returned with these three reports.

BALTIMORE, MD — “It really wasn’t about going to a different state,” William said of his decision to join a delegation of more than 200 Archdiocese of Baltimore Catholics. “It was getting to know yourself and getting to know your God.” An hour later, the Sprint Center was silent. Thousands were kneeling in unison as the Blessed Sacrament was placed on an altar. Some were overcome with emotion as tears streamed down their cheeks. “I’ve got to say it was life-changing,” said Zanna Poquette, 16, a parishioner of St. John the Evangelist in Severna Park. “Oh my goodness!” Read more of Christ Reigns for archdiocese youth at national conference.

BALTIMORE, MD — Both Father Wible and Father Rapisarda traveled with the Archdiocese of Baltimore group, which included teens, youth ministers and representatives from the Division of Youth and Young Adult Ministry.  “To see them understand God in the church in a deeper way is just (great),” Father Rapisarda said. Father Wible took part in a massive reconciliation at the Kansas City Convention Center and heard from young people ready to change. “When these kids go to confession here, it’s because they want to go,” he said. “They’re cleaning house. It’s life-changing for them and it’s life-changing for me.” Read more of Conference is life-changing for teens, priests

BALTIMORE, MD — At the end of the Everts’ nearly 40-minute presentation at the National Catholic Youth Conference inside the Sprint Center, the teens rose to their feet and applauded wildly. Amidst the crowd were teens from the Archdiocese of Baltimore, some of whom have seen the couple in their videos, “Theology of the Body for Teens.” “I’m 17, I have a girlfriend,” Josh Twery said. “There’s pressure there. What (the Everts) said put some perspective on things.” Allison Boyd said young women desire a true, deep love. “I think guys want it too,” Boyd said. Ben Kirby, a parishioner from St. John the Evangelist in Severna Park, said the Everts’ discussion resonated. “I guess if you stand up for God and you practice what you believe, you can do no wrong,” Ben said. “Your reward will be greater later on and you’ll have a much greater marriage.”  Read more of Chastity talk resonates with Baltimore teens