BY KATHI STEARNS

Staff Writer

JONESBORO--Twenty-one parishes of the archdiocese competed in the annual "Battle of the Youth Groups" Saturday, Oct. 7 at St. Philip Benizi Church.

The theme of the competition was "Open Your Hearts To The World." Each youth group was asked to design a T-shirt and a banner illustrating the theme. The teens from St. James the Apostle, McDonough, won first place for their banner while the teens from Holy Trinity, Peachtree City, won first place for their T-shirt design.

After an opening ceremony which included the procession of the teams and the lighting of the games' torch, the contests began. Teens competed in relay races, the fireman's carry, Catholic trivia and an obstacle course which included a water slide. A disc jockey played musical tunes from the past 12 years and teens were challenged to name the artist and song title. Between activities the teens danced to the music of the Village People and M.C. Hammer.

Each team was awarded points for its finish in an event. At the end of the afternoon the points were totaled and trophies were given to the top three youth groups. The teams earning the most points throughout the competition were: St. Philip Benizi, Jonesboro, first place; St. John the Evangelist, Hapeville, second place and Queen of Angels, Thomson, third place.

The event, now in its 12th year, was coordinated by Chris Walker of St. Philip Benizi and Julie Herold of St. John the Evangelist. The Battle of the Youth Groups is one of the few events during the year that brings teens from all parts of the archdiocese together for a day of interaction and fun.