The Premier See is ready to take the BBQ Capital of the World by storm.
A delegation of 261 from the Archdiocese of Baltimore will attend the biennial National Catholic Youth Conference in Kansas City, Mo., Nov. 19 to 21. A convention center and the Sprint Center arena will be filled with 20,000 Catholic youths from around the country who will come together for faith empowerment.
Many dioceses will bring gifts to trade and be identified by T-shirts and hats that signify their hometowns. Baltimore representatives will wear hats with a plush crab on top, making their presence memorable.
Archbishop Edwin F. O’Brien spoke to the Baltimore delegation in early November, telling them they were in for a unique experience.
“It will be a great Catholic context you will find yourself in there, great enthusiasm for the faith, and you’re going to come back richer for it,” the archbishop said. “And I hope as a result of your presence that others will find a richness in the faith, too, because you come from Baltimore, from the Premier See, and that will be emblazoned on the shirts you will be wearing.
“My prayers go with you,” he continued. “I hope you find great meaning and great enthusiasm, and come back a renewed Catholic ready to pitch in and do the job that has to be done here.”
A thematic NCYC park will have exhibits, as well as “interactive educational and recreational activities.”
Kristin Witte, coordinator of pastoral care for the archdiocese’s Division of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, said, “NCYC provides the young church of Baltimore a chance to enter into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and his church in a unique venue. It is a powerful witness watching over 20,000 Catholics praying, singing and cheering in one voice.”
Witte said there will be an inclusion of eucharistic adoration in the Sprint Center.
“Over 20,000 people in a stadium reverencing, loving and respecting the Blessed Sacrament will surely be a moment to remember always,” Witte said.