The Beaches
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Catholic Young Adults Community In the Midst of a Busy World, Diving Deeper into the Faith Together
s Catholics, we know that faith is ultimately best practiced in community. In fact, Jesus said, “For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20). With this important community aspect in mind, our parish, along with St. Paul’s in Jacksonville Beach, is a part of the Beaches Catholic Young Adults community, or BCYA, for parishioners ranging from late teens to 30s. “It’s important to have a group like BCYA to dive deeper into your faith and meet other like-minded young adults,” says member Lauren Harrison. For today’s young adults, being Catholic in our society can at times feel lonely. Thus, the BCYA mission is to “serve the Catholic young adult population at The Beaches through service, socials and spiritual development and to engage young adults in parish life through increasing awareness of parish events, encouraging regular reception of the sacraments and supporting evangelization efforts.” Members have used the time during the COVID-19 pandemic to meet virtually for coffee hours, speakers, and a Thursday Bible study. Before the pandemic, regular meetings were held on Thursdays at Our Lady Star of the Sea and St. Paul’s. The group has a monthly Holy Hour on the first Friday of the month at Our Lady Star of the Sea, with a social to follow. The socials will resume after it is deemed safe to gather. While BCYA ministry coordinator Mary Kate Phillips misses the opportunity to meet in person, she is glad the members still have ways to connect virtually. This ministry is certainly an important part of her faith life. “This group allows for young adults to connect and deepen their relationship with Christ, as well as support each other on their faith journeys,” she says. continued on back cover
The annual Friendsgiving event, held in honor of Thanksgiving holiday
Virtual Coffee Hour with the BCYA
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