The Guadalupe Youth Summit continues to grow each year.
More than 500 young people gathered at the Ohio Expo Center on Feb. 20 for the sixth annual event, which was organized by the diocese’s Office for Hispanic Ministry under the Office of Evangelization.
The event was made possible through a grant from The Catholic Foundation and other supporters.
Attendance has steadily increased over the past six years at the summit, which provides an opportunity for Latino youth to attend Mass celebrated by Bishop Earl Fernandes, listen to inspirational speakers, participate in activities and enjoy fellowship.
Among the participants were hundreds of students from Catholic and public high schools, young adult volunteers, parish staff and community leaders.
“It was a good experience for young people to come together and have a moment to share their faith and culture in their own language,” said Father David Arroyo, CR, diocesan Vicar of Hispanic Ministry.
A panel discussion to encourage vocations to the priesthood and religious life included Bishop Fernandes. Then-Deacon Max Gallegos, a seminarian at the Pontifical College Josephinum who was ordained a priest in June for the Diocese of Birmingham, Alabama, gave the keynote addresses and shared his faith story.
“Deacon Max’s testimony truly resonated with me,” said Fatima Espindola, a volunteer who has been involved with the summit for four years. “In tough times, it might seem like doors are closing, but faith and God are always there. With faith, anything is possible.”
“The young people really enjoyed the keynote from Deacon Max Gallegos connected with his upbringing, life changes and love for the Lord,” Father Arroyo said. “Today was a day to learn about vocations through personal shared experiences. I hope we can continue to foster a vocational culture among our young Latinos in the Diocese of Columbus.”
Bishop Fernandes shared with the young people his parents’ migration story from India to Toledo.
“The bishop’s message was impactful, emphasizing his family’s immigrant experience from India,” said Father Anthony Baetzold, CFR, a priest at Columbus Christ the King Church. “It is vital for young Hispanics to feel valued and to recognize that they have a place in both the U.S. and the Church. They are here for a reason, and God has great plans for them.”
Santa Narvalles, who was one of the panelists, highlight the importance of reflecting the light of Christ through actions and interactions in the community.
“Being here feels like a divine calling,” she said. “Jesus is not only the light of the world but also inspires us to be the salt of the earth, adding flavor and preserving the goodness around us.”
Dr. Marlon De La Torre, senior director for the diocese’s Office of Evangelization, highlighted the importance of the Hispanic community supporting its youth through a sense of belonging and camaraderie.
“The Guadalupe Youth Summit serves as a platform to uplift the Hispanic youth and showcase positive role models within the community,” he said. “Emphasizing fellowship, vocational paths and the visibility of active Hispanics, the summit aims to foster faith and optimism for a brighter future, including career prospects.”
While acknowledging the challenges that Hispanics sometimes face in their schools and in a new culture, speakers and panelists encouraged the young people to embrace their identities and pursue their dreams.
“Be courageous and do not be afraid,” Salesian Sister Loretta DeDomenicis said. “God has a plan for you, and you are making a difference in the world.
“The world needs your light, as there is too much darkness surrounding us. Let your light shine – the light of Christ.”