Faith can shape a young adult's path in profound ways, and Emma’s story is a testament to the power of Catholic community. From her parish to youth ministry programs, she discovered how a supportive faith environment can guide life-changing decisions.

The Power of Parish Community

“My parish has completely changed my life because of the community it surrounds me with,” Emma shares.

For Emma, participating in Catholic youth ministry (CYM) and faith-based groups provided more than spiritual growth—they offered mentorship, friendship, and guidance at critical moments in her life.

Youth Ministry and Faith-Based Groups Shape the Path

“If I hadn’t started participating in CYM and a girls' group, I wouldn’t be at the private Catholic school I’m at today,” she says. These programs helped her build strong Catholic friendships and deepen her understanding of her faith, demonstrating how youth ministry can impact education, character, and vocation.

Discovering Vocation Through Steubenville

Emma’s journey also included exploring her vocation and discernment for religious life. She reflects on her experience at the Steubenville Conference: “These are photos from Steubenville, where I really dove into discernment for religious life. Mary Queen of the Angels, PRAY FOR US.” Faith-filled events like Steubenville provide young adults with opportunities to encounter Christ, discern their calling, and grow in Catholic leadership.

Newman Connection: Connecting Students to Faith Communities

Emma’s story embodies Newman Connection’s mission: helping Catholic students find authentic faith communities that inspire growth, support discernment, and build lifelong connections. By connecting students to vibrant Catholic networks, Newman Connection ensures that young adults like Emma can thrive spiritually, socially, and academically.

Support Transformative Catholic Experiences

Your support makes these transformative experiences possible. Donate to Newman Connection today to help more students discover their faith, build meaningful relationships, and embrace their Catholic identity.