April 6, 2018 at 1:53 p.m.
NCYC offers chance to build hope
How does all of that sound to you?
Every other year, thousands of high school students make a journey of their faith. Two years ago, they met in the great city of St. Louis, Missouri. This year, for five days in December, all will trek to Indianapolis, Indiana, for the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC).
Busy times
The theme for this upcoming gathering is "Hope at the Crossroads." The five days will be packed from the time you wake up till the time you fall into bed, packed with many activities and opportunities, including workshops, liturgies, festivals, sightseeing tours -- and some free time as well.The journey, begins, however, long before you step foot onto the plane. Months of planning go into this trip in order to guarantee a fun, safe time for all.
About May or June, after signing up for this experience with your youth minister, you receive a payment plan for the trip. The amount for each participant is $600, which includes airfare, traveling expenses, lodging at a hotel, registration, t-shirts, trade items and most meals.
Paying your way
That may sound like a lot of money, but most do not pay this amount. The ideal plan would be to fund-raise one-third, and have your parish pay one-third and your family pay the last third. This obviously depends on the individual situation.If a big group is going from your parish, it would be a good idea to spend at least six months prior to the trip raising funds in any creative way you can think of. Car washes, spaghetti dinners, raffles, game marathons, and special collections have worked well in the past.
As the time draws nearer to the date of departure, you should start thinking about packing. You'll need the basics, along with clothes for that particular climate, a picture ID, cash for hotel gratuity, a phone card, service item, and all of the trade items that the Diocese provides you with.
Swapping
"Trading items?" you're thinking. That's a special part of the NCYC experience. Each group that participates in the conference brings items to trade with each other.They can be as simple as a business card with your personal information, buttons that say "I Love NY," hats, or even bumper stickers -- anything that represents you and where you're from.
It's a great way to get to know the people you meet. (And you'll get to meet a lot of them!)
Amazing time
The experience of the NCYC is incredible. It's amazing to be surrounded by thousands of people your age while you celebrate God and all He has done for each of us.People you come across are enthusiastic and not afraid to share their faith. If you've ever wondered whether or not you're headed in the right direction, this is the chance for you.
What are your plans for the winter of 2003?
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