Archdiocese of Washington

Hey, this section is just for you! If you are a leader at your parish or school, we’d love to help you with programs, activities and events. If you’re just here to see what’s up, welcome! Believe it or not, Christ Himself is calling you to experience His extraordinary life right here in our Archdiocese. If you are a youth leader, Christ Himself has called you into this leadership role. Click on to the links below to find out how we can help you serve those He is asking you to guide, enjoy and appreciate in the community where He has placed you…

“Do not be afraid! Christ knows ‘what is inside a person.’ Only He knows! Today too often people do not know what they carry inside, in the deepest recesses of their soul, in their heart. Too often people are uncertain about a sense of life on earth. Invaded by doubts they are led into despair. Therefore, with humility and trust I beg and implore you—allow Christ to speak to the person in you. Only He has the words of life, yes, eternal life.” - Pope John Paul II, Christifidelis Laici, #34.

Leadership Training Events

National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry
National Catholic Youth Conference
Awards Available through OYM
Resources Available through OYM

OYM/CYO Activities For You and Your Friends

Archdiocese of Washington Lock-Out
African American Youth Lock-in
African American Youth Ministry Historically Black College Tour
African American Youth Ministry Revival
Encounter the Gospel of Life
Hispanic Youth Ministry Youth Easter Celebration

Leadership Training Events

National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry
The Archdiocese of Washington is an active supporting member of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry. The Federation exists to support and promote development of Catholic youth ministry through diocesan affiliation and services. It provides a vehicle for regional and national gatherings for youth and adults; provides resources, vision, leadership and support for adults; and advocates and enables youth involvement in the Church.

National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC)
NCYC is open to all Catholic high school age youth and their chaperons. The majority of youth participants are between 16 and 18 years old. They are often leaders in their local parishes, schools and/or diocese, though many are just beginning to connect to their faith. Some attendees may have participated in previous national or international events such as the World Youth Day. Many are experiencing this type of gathering for the first time.

Awards Available through OYM

Eagle of the Cross Award is given to high school youth who best exemplify personal integrity, apostolic awareness, and Christian Leadership. The award is given by the parish to an extraordinary youth, who selflessly serves their peers and youth ministry with unwavering commitment and dedication.
For God and Youth Award given to adults whose service to youth and youth ministry is truly exceptional.

OYM/CYO Activities For You and Your Friends

Click here for our current calendar of events!

Archdiocese of Washington Lock-Out
We’re staying out all night! All-night fun, including Mass, Confessions, dinner, live music, all night laser tag and bowling. For more information, contact Darren Foster at 202-281-2469

African American Youth Lock-in
The African American Youth Lock-in is a weekend experience where youth come together to continue to be aware of and enhance their Catholic identity. Participants will celebrate Mass and youth will be exposed to thought-provoking and informative discussions, dynamic speakers and lively entertainment. The lock-in also challenges youth to become active participants in the workshops and to share ideas and feelings in group situations.

Archdiocese of Washington African American Youth Ministry Historically Black College Tour
Sites: Hampton University, Virginia State University, North Carolina Central University, North Carolina A&T University, Johnson C. Smith University, Belmont Abbey College, Morris Brown College, Morehouse College, Spellman College, Clark-Atlanta… and Tour of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Center. Trip includes round-trip motor coach transportation, three nights hotel accommodations (four students per room), three breakfast meals and three dinner meals.

African American Youth Ministry Revival
To bring about in all Catholic youth such an enthusiasm for their faith that, in living their faith in Jesus, they freely share it with others.

Encounter the Gospel of Life: A Justice and Service Experience
A unique six day retreat/service experience where youth explore their Catholic faith, Catholic social teaching, and connect to real life application through hands on service. During the day, participants serve in homeless shelters, soup kitchens and day care centers, senior and special care facilities. In the evening, youth hear fantastic speakers and music, and join together in prayer, liturgy, laughter and fun. Parishes can obtain more information here.

Pascua Juvenil/Hispanic Youth Ministry Youth Easter Celebration
Esta reunión anual de los jóvenes hispanos es la culminación de un Programa de Evangelización de ocho semanas. Este encuentro será para cantar, realizar dinámica de grupos, rezar y tener juntos la Santa Misa. Nuestros objetivos son: Fomentar el conocimiento y amistad mediante el compartir en unidad de fe e ideales, formación catequética mediante conferencias, pequeños grupos de reflexión para el intercambio de ideas, profundizar en el Misterio Pascual que es el fundamento de nuestra fe.

This annual gathering for Hispanic youth is the summit of an eight-week Lenten evangelization program. The evening consists of singing, group sharing, prayer and Mass. The purpose is to promote mutual knowledge and friendship, to offer catechetical formation, to promote small groups of reflection to express our ideas and to better appreciate/explore the depth of the Easter Mystery which is the foundation of our faith.