Youth-2000 Prayer Festival drew approximately 150 young people for a weekend of prayer and spiritual revitalization May 6 to 8.

In addition to youth from the Atlanta archdiocese, participants came from Virginia, Louisiana and Florida. Franciscan Friars of the Renewal from the South Bronx in New York City conducted the weekend retreat at St. Joseph’s Church in Marietta.

“What really struck me,” commented Molly McCarthy, youth minister at St. Joseph’s, “was these kids were so centered on Jesus and it was obvious how hungry teenagers are for a chance to spend time together, spend time praying and delving into their faith. They were obviously inspired by the talks given by the friars.”

The weekend opened with a Mass on Friday evening celebrated by Father Don Kenny, chancellor. A unique aspect of the weekend, according to organizers, was exposition of the Blessed Sacrament in the center of the gathering throughout the weekend. A deep reverence was evident among the youth, according to Ken Lipe. All-night adoration followed the day’s events Friday and Saturday.

Saturday’s activities began at 8 a.m. and included talks by the friars interspersed with discussion led by young people from St. Catherine of Siena’s youth group. The sacrament of reconciliation was available throughout the day. Each session closed with vocal prayer and singing before the Blessed Sacrament. The day ended at 10 p.m.

One of the friars who grew up in the Bronx and by his own admission as a youth had nothing to do with God, spoke of his spiritual journey. Others spoke about the sacrament of reconciliation, Marian devotion and devotion to the Blessed Sacrament.

The prayer festival ended Sunday morning with Mass and words encouraging the young people to keep their weekend experience alive by returning to their respective parishes and starting youth prayer groups and eucharistic adoration.

“Youth 2000 was an intense and wonderful weekend that strengthened my relations with God, Jesus, Mary and my friends there,” commented Jennifer Cooper of St. Joseph’s Parish. “It was one of the best weekends of my life.”

Another youth from St. Joseph’s, April Behlmer, remarked, “It deepened my faith and it washed away any doubts I had before about my faith.”

“My love for Jesus and resolve to serve has grown tremendously because of this experience,” added Mary Lowzinski of St. Joseph’s.

“I would like to see the archdiocese sponsor Youth 2000 on a regular basis,” commented Mrs. McCarthy.