July 25, 2023

Thousands are spiritually inspired at the Steubenville East Youth Conference

REGIONAL
Story and photo by Nick Morganelli

SPRINGFIELD – Springfield Bishop William D. Byrne greeted hundreds of youths from the Springfield Diocese who were part of nearly 1,500 attendees at the annual Steubenville East Youth Conference held July 21-23 at the MassMutual Center, here.

This was the second consecutive year that Springfield, Massachusetts was chosen as the eastern U.S. location. Youth ministers and their groups traveled from as far as New York. In all, there are 17 Steubenville youth conferences being held nationwide this summer.

The theme was “Refuge” and youth were challenged to seek refuge in a relationship with Jesus. Each day featured presentations around the theme in a general session in the arena. There were two breakout sessions, one geared towards women, and the other for the young men in attendance.

Contemporary Christian music created an exciting environment for attendees to worship in song. And there was down time as well for shopping in the Christian marketplace, playing games, and just relaxing. Offered throughout the weekend, the sacrament of reconciliation was received by more than 1,000 people.

A highlight for many was the eucharistic procession. Adoration also was among the evening worship on both Friday and Saturday.

The conference culminated on Sunday morning with a Mass celebrated by Bishop Byrne and other clergy.

A video version of this story will be featured on an upcoming edition of “Real to Reel,” which airs on Saturday evenings this summer at 7 on WWLP-22NEWS. Beginning on Sept. 2, the program will air at 6:30 a.m. until late November.