DIOCESAN NEWS
01/29/10
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Youth celebrate ‘solid gold’ convention
By Kathie Curtis
Director of Youth Ministry
Diocese of Jackson
      We are celebrating the 50th anniversary of Catholic youth conventions in the Diocese of Jackson the weekend of Feb. 5-7. It is only appropriate the theme be “Solid Gold.”
      We began in 1960s and have transitioned from poodle skirts to mini-skirts; from Perry Como to emo; from vinyl records to iPods; from 50 cents for a gallon of gas to $4 a gallon. 
      We inaugurated the first Catholic U.S. president in the ‘60s and just elected the first African-American U.S. president. The changes have been dramatic and they’re still happening at an even more rapid pace.
      Through it all, we continue to love and support our Catholic youth. The youth convention provides a venue for our young people to meet their peers from across our diocese. We plan games, music, parish youth group slide shows, food, and a talent performance on Saturday evening. Interlaced with all of this is a constant flow and interweaving of Catholic values and teachings.
      We have four keynote speakers this year. “Popple” is two young guys — two guitars, one uke, one kazoo – one Catholic faith. They will keep the kids on their toes, laughing and singing. The second keynoter is Rich Curran, “the motivational speaker guy” nationally known for helping teenagers find meaning and purpose in their lives through Jesus Christ.       John McGinley of St. Joseph, Starkville, a youth ministry far longer that he wants to admit, will speak on finding what is best for your life and how to get it. Benjamin Russell of Catholic Charities will speak on social justice.
      At the end of convention, our kids will know their Catholic faith is the true “solid gold” and we are “still Catholic after all these years!”
      And don’t forget, all pastors and religious are invited to visit us at convention and join the celebration.

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