Kaylynn Badecka, St. Vincent de Paul Church, Dallas, Homeschooled

“I think that after attending the Eucharistic Congress, I will try to do the best I can with every decision I make. As APeX said, you’re dragging everyone else down when you sin.”

Shawn Horan. St. Theresa Church, Douglasville, Rising freshman at the University of Georgia, EXCITE! Youth Witness

“I will walk away from the Eucharistic Congress with the idea of knowing that even though I’m helping already, there is so much more you can do to help the church and others.”

Alyssa Shields, Most Blessed Sacrament Church, Atlanta, Rising freshman at Georgia State University, EXCITE! Youth Witness

“This is my first time at the Eucharistic Congress and my first time at a religious conference in general. I love it—there is so much positive, healthy energy. Being here makes you proud to be a part of your faith.”

Antonio Martinez, Our Lady of the Americas Mission, Lilburn, Meadow Creek High School

“It’s really great how we can party out and rock like all teenagers do, and do it in God’s name. I’ve learned that everything God-related doesn’t have to be boring. It can be fun!”

Myky Truong, Our Lady of Vietnam Church, Riverdale, Morrow High School

“My favorite part of the Eucharistic Congress has been our dance performance at the Vietnamese track. This is my fourth time at the Eucharistic Congress, and I keep coming back because every year it gets better.”

Neil McDonough, St. Peter Chanel Church, Roswell, Regina Caeli Academy

“It’s a nice feeling here at the Eucharistic Congress because everyone is Catholic, and you feel like you’re not alone.”

Cristian Anerade, St. Jude the Apostle Church, Sandy Springs, River Ridge High School

“When I make a friend laugh, I know that God is laughing too. I will leave the Eucharistic Congress with a happier soul, and I will know that I have made God happy.”

Teen Talk Text by Becky Ittner, student intern  from Marist School, Atlanta