St. James’ has shined its light on my life in so many different ways. The most special way is by introducing me to the wide variety of youth activities in church and in religion. St. James’ Youth Group was the first time I saw how many opportunities youth have to make their relationship with God their own. Being the youngest in my family, I saw my siblings in Youth Group before I was old enough and I knew the second I was old enough to join, I wanted to be in Youth Group. St. James’ Youth Group is just the tip of the iceberg of youth activities that I was introduced to. I started going on Youth Group retreats when I was in 7th grade. I have gone to New Beginnings, Provence and other Diocesan and church events. Going to these events I heard great music, talks and made friends that I still talk to today. After I started going on retreats I started going on mission trips. When I got into high school I was introduced to an organization called Young Life. I went to the first club meeting my freshman year and I fell in love with it. Now I just started my senior year of high school and I’m still in Young Life and am still as hooked as I was when I first started.
Without St. James’ youth group I don’t believe I would be invested in my religion and my relationship with God. St. James’ youth group opened up the door to an entire new world for me. That world has played a very important part in my life and has helped change my life. Being a teenager can be hard but going to youth group I knew I had friends and a support system that would always be there for me and that would help me with anything. I found it’s important to talk to your youth group leaders because they can give you help and advice that no one else can. Thank you for supporting St. James’ because it helps youth find a special place in church and in their relationship with God.
Caroline Pellicier