What is YOUTH 2000?

YOUTH 2000, an international spiritual initiative, organizes and directs Eucharistic centered retreats for young people. Begun in 1990, YOUTH 2000 is a response to the challenge of Pope John Paul II to "become shining heralds of the reevangelization and generous architects of the civilization of love." YOUTH 2000 promotes, organizes, and directs retreats based on the Gospel of St. John, Chapter 6, "I am the Bread of Life." The focus on the Eucharist shows young people that Christ must be at the center of their lives. The format of each retreat, which includes the Mass, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, prayer, talks, music and fellowship, provides a means to help young people develop a deep and lasting personal relationship with Jesus Christ, especially in the Eucharist, "the source and summit of Christian life" (Lumen gentium 11). Young people gain a solid foundation upon which to build their lives.

The YOUTH 2000 Retreat always begins with Mass to show that adoration of the Blessed Sacrament flows from the Mass. The weekend also includes talks given by priests, testimonies by young people and time for small group discussion. The speakers discuss topics important to young people, for example, 

• Who is Jesus Christ?
• What does the world offer me?
• What are the values I seek?
• Do these values bring me a true and lasting peace?
• How do I pray?
• How can I affect other young people?
• How can I build a civilization of peace and love?
• How do I follow Jesus Christ?

The small discussion groups give young people an opportunity to meet with other young people, make new friends, and talk over the topics of discussion. The small groups also provide a forum for young people to discuss the many difficulties they face in the world today.

Mass is celebrated each day, during which time the Blessed Sacrament is reposed. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is another vital part of every YOUTH 2000 weekend. The priests discuss the Sacrament in an effort to give young people a deeper understanding of the importance and the need for reconciliation with God. The Sacrament is available throughout the weekend.

Devotion to Mary, the Mother of God, is shown through daily recitation of the rosary lead by the young people, and the crowning of the Blessed Mother on the last day.

Recreation is also a part of each YOUTH 2000. Meal time and breaks provide a great opportunity to meet, share and laugh with youth from other places.

Over and over, young people have responded with great enthusiasm and zeal. Evidenced by the testimonies young people are invited to give at the end of each Retreat, young people are finding a true and lasting love for Jesus Christ and the Catholic faith. By placing Christ at the center of their lives, young people are finding a deep peace and a way to cope with the culture of today.