The Abbey Youth Festival at St. Joseph Seminary, St. Benedict , LA (North Shore of New Orleans) gathered 4,500 youth participants on March 22, 2014. The theme, “Made For Greatness” echoed St. Paul’s words to the Philippians, “I can do all things through him who strengthens me” (4:13). The day consisted of keynotes, concerts, reconciliation and mass. During the homily, Bishop Gregory Aymond spoke about how the secrets of the Samaritan woman impinged her relationship with Jesus. After uncovering her secrets with the help of Jesus, she was able to bring the Good News to other villagers. The leaving behind her bucket at the well indicated how she reoriented her life to Christ, thirsting for him alone. Youth participants were encouraged to bring their secrets to Jesus, to leave their buckets behind, and to live for Jesus.
Before giving the final blessing, Bishop Aymond asked youth who had considered a vocation to religious life or the priesthood to stand with him at the stage. Several hundred youth joined him, an inspirational moment for all to behold, the Spirit moving young people toward greatness.