Youth pose for a photo before the representation of the Stations of the Cross on Friday, March 25. (Photos courtesy of Father José de Jesús Sánchez)

MERIDIAN – Thirty-six Hispanic youth from the Catholic Community of Meridian participated recently in a day of reflection to prepare spiritually for Easter.
The theme, “Christ lives and with love I get close to him by caring for the needy,” was led by Father José de Jesús Sánchez, associate pastor of St. Patrick and St Joseph parishes. During the day the youth meditated on the parable of the Good Samaritan.
“The activities were focused on reflecting on how to be open to assist others in need in any place and circumstance,” said Father Sánchez, adding that through the talks he hoped to help the participants think about the sacrifice that Jesus made for each one of them.  “We should all be grateful,” he said, adding that he wants the youth to appreciate the sacrifices of those around them such as their parents and others who love them.
Claudia Muñoz, the organizer of the event, said that the purpose of the retreat was to help

Youth gather on the grounds of St. Joseph Church to do an activity during the retreat. The activities were focused on reflecting on how to be open to assist others in need.

teenage Catholics grow in their faith in a fun and different way. “I can say that my personal experience in this event was an eye opener. I loved the fact that we got to hear many great testimonies and did a series of activities,” she said.
Jaylene Marin loved the fact that the games had a purpose. “Each game had a lesson behind it. We learned to show compassion, mercy, love, joy and over all to help one another.”
A couple of teenagers that participated were asked if they would participate in another retreat and they all said ‘yes.’
Father Sánchez told them that this is only the beginning. “We hope to see many of you joining us next Easter.”