Youth Gather in Faith and Joy at 2025 Catholic Youth Day Diocese of Fall River, Mass. † Friday, November 7, 2025
Eight seminarians embark on the path to priesthood in the Diocese by saying yes to God’s calling By Joan D. Warren Editor
joandwarren@anchornews.org
FALL RIVER — In a time when the noise of daily life often drowns out the quiet call of God, eight courageous young men in the Diocese of Fall River have responded with open hearts and a resounding “yes.” These seminarians—five of them newly accepted this academic year—are answering the call to discern the priesthood, stepping
forward as hopeful signs of the Church’s future. Their journeys are supported by the Diocese’s ongoing Called by Name Campaign, an initiative that invites parishioners to recognize and encourage the potential for priestly vocations in young men between the ages of 15 and 35. Through simple pew cards available at Masses the weekend of November 8–9, Catholics across the Diocese are being asked to play 8 Turn to page two
Men’s fellowship small group gathers monthly to grow in Christ’s presence
Men gather in Osterville for small group worship, fellowship and food.
By Joan D. Warren Editor
joandwarren@anchornews.org
OSTERVILLE — In a world where schedules are full and time is precious, a group of Catholic men in the Mid-Cape area is setting aside one evening each month
to nourish their faith—and one another—in the presence of Jesus Christ. The small group, founded by Our Lady of Assumption Church 8 Turn to page eight
Youth from around the Diocese gathered for RENEWED, the 2025 Catholic Youth Day on October 18. By Joan D. Warren Editor
joandwarren@anchornews.org
FALL RIVER — More than 400 young people from across the Diocese of Fall River came together on Saturday, October 18, for the 2025 Catholic Youth Day, held at the former Bishop Connolly High School. Themed “RENEWED,” the all-day event provided an uplifting and faith-filled space for teens to learn, pray, and celebrate together as one Church community. The day began with a joyful and reverent celebration of the Holy Mass, setting a spiritual tone for the hours ahead. The liturgy was celebrated by Bishop Edgar M. da Cunha, S.D.V., who invited the young congregation to reflect deeply on their purpose and mission as disciples of Christ. In his homily, Bishop da Cunha posed a heartfelt question: “Why are you here?” He explained, “You are here because God called you to life. He gave you the gift of life through your parents. You’re here today because God gave you the gift of faith, and that gift comes with a mission.” The bishop urged the youth to
consider how they will use their God-given talents. “Are you going to keep your gifts and talents to yourselves, or use them to make a difference in the world?” Clergy concelebrating Mass wore red vestments in honor of the Feast of St. Luke, patron saint of doctors. Bishop da Cunha noted, “We wear red to celebrate St. Luke, a faithful, generous, and courageous disciple who fell in love with the message of Jesus. Like Luke, we are called to be disciples, to share the faith so others may come to know Christ.” The bishop also spoke candidly about the struggles many young people face today, especially the growing sense of isolation in an age of constant digital connection. “We’re living through a pandemic of isolation,” he said. “We may be connected to our smartphones and social media, but we are often disconnected from one another and from God.” He concluded his homily with gratitude and encouragement. “I’m so glad you chose to be here. Your presence today shows that you want to be part of a community that celebrates faith together. 8 Turn to page 12
November 7, 2025 †
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