Thirty Maui youth, ages 12-25, are united in their efforts to attend World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney, Australia, this July.

The youth of two parishes, St. Joseph Church in Makawao and St. Rita Church in Haiku, who participate in the NeoCatechumenal Way, are excited at the possibility of meeting with Pope Benedict XVI, promoting peace, reflecting on God’s will for their personal vocations, and the potential for spiritual growth that comes from such a pilgrimage.

Although the event is only a little more than a month away, they still need to raise funds to cover costs, which continue to go up. The fundraising began in 2007 with cookie and calendar sales. With the help of adults in their parishes they continued with a rummage sale and are having two more fundraising dinners in June. The proceeds to help them with their travel expenses.

Here are the two events:

n   Dinner at Flatbread Pizzeria in Paia, 5-10 p.m., June 3. Diners can come in and enjoy dinner and support the youth at no extra cost. A portion of the restaurant’s proceeds will be donated.

n   Dinner and silent auction at Holy Ghost Hall in Kula, 5-9 p.m., June 6. Patrons will enjoy live entertainment and delicious Portuguese bean soup, while bidding on a selection of items. Take-out coupons are also being pre-sold directly by the youth.

Having gone to World Youth Day 2000 in Rome myself, I can personally attest to the transformative power that such a journey can have. Being in the presence of Pope John Paul II was deeply moving. More incredible still was the awe I felt looking into the crowd of more than 2 million youth!

The heat was an oppressive 105 degrees, but you would have never known it by looking at the smiling faces, singing and playing guitar for Jesus Christ! In a world that sometimes seems on a downward spiral, seeing this next generation gave me real hope for the future of the world!

The journey changed the entire trajectory of my life, giving me a new sense of direction. I continue to cherish this experience. Because of this I will be praying for these 30 young people, and all the youth who will be attending this important event.

Should you wish to make a donation to assist with the travel expenses for these youth, please contact Derick Chongkee at (808)575-9914 or 871-2313.

Perhaps the biggest blessing these youth can ask for are the prayers of the faithful … that they receive all that God has planned for them.