Catholic youth ministers build bridges at Pittsburgh gathering

Published: 2004-12-10

PITTSBURGH (CNS) -- When officials of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry were searching for a theme for their biennial gathering, they took into account the landscape of the Pittsburgh area and its many bridges. "Love Builds Bridges" was a theme the 2,000 participants in the Dec. 2-5 gathering at the David Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh would take to heart. "We experienced a lot of love," said Father Thomas Dunn, chairman of the federation's board of directors, of the gathering. "We saw bridges all over and it became an image for us." The theme of the national convention also celebrated those who have the courage to build connections with others. "All too often the ministers find they're isolated," Father Dunn said. "For them to come together with 2,000 of their peers is uplifting and encouraging." The conference included general sessions, workshops, exhibits and a closing liturgy celebrated with Pittsburgh Bishop Donald W. Wuerl.

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