Catholic Youth Day 2021

Martha’s Vineyard was the setting for the Fall River Diocesan celebration of Catholic Youth Day 2021 as over 250 teens and youth ministers gathered with Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., for an afternoon of faith, enrichment, comradery and fun. Participants represented 24 parishes from across the Diocese and Bishop Stang High School in Dartmouth.

Catholic Youth Day took place in the historic Tabernacle in Trinity Park, a large covered outdoor venue, and on adjacent park grounds. The day featured talks, video, live music, and prayer and worship including Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. There were also games, activities and a pizza lunch as well as a some free time for participants to explore the area.

Bishop da Cunha celebrated Mass during which he spoke to the young people present, reminding them of the importance of always remaining connected with God in what is a very busy world and to know they can turn to their faith to help them face the challenges they will inevitably encounter in life. He assured them that their presence at the Youth Day event and their commitment to their faith “gives us hope for our Diocese and for our world.”

Rising eighth graders through high school-age youth from all parishes in the Fall River Diocese were invited to join with their peers in this this free celebration of faith on the island. It was offered as an opportunity for them to help rekindle relationships with friends and build community after pandemic restrictions, to grow in faith, and to enjoy a memorable day on the Vineyard.

Catholic Youth Day was organized by the diocesan Secretariat for the New Evangelization. The Day’s Master of Ceremonies was Oscar A. Rivera, Jr., who serves within the secretariat as the diocesan Director of Youth Ministry.

The Fall River Diocese is grateful to Catholic Youth Day sponsors: Family Rosary/Holy Cross Family Ministries and the Healey Foundation.