IN THE VALLEY // Part 1

We often feel like are living life in a “valley,” stuck in between darkness, loneliness, suffering, and all of the other difficult things we encounter all too much. In this new series, we are looking at how we might be able to rely on God during these difficult times.

While God does not directly will for us to suffer, He does sometimes allow or permit suffering in our lives, but only if He is able to bring about an even greater good. It is okay to be frustrated at the things that are making life difficult. It is even okay to be frustrated or angry with God, as long as we continue to keep our relationship with Him strong in honesty and faith, knowing that He is working everything for our ultimate good: eternal salvation!

“For the Almighty God, who, as even the heathen acknowledge, has supreme power over all things, being Himself supremely good, would never permit the existence of anything evil among His works, if He were not so omnipotent and good that He can bring good even out of evil.” -St. Augustine

Don't let the things we say at Church stay at Church!! Use these questions to comfortably bring Jesus into your everyday conversations with friends, family, and even those you might not know very well (yet!).

• In times of suffering, what is your usual response to God?

• Why do you think God allows suffering in this world?

• Is there a greater purpose to suffering?

• What does Jesus on the Cross teach us about suffering?

Jesus' greatest gift of love to us is the Eucharist. In fact, it is more than just a gift. It is also the Gift-Giver: Jesus gives us Himself every single time we receive the Eucharist.

Come by every week to revisit the Youth Mass Homily!! This past Sunday, Fr. Edwin preached on our calling as Christians to be salt and light to the world, as well as how we can support the larger mission of the Church within our Diocese. Listen now!

Looking for new songs to help you enter into worship? The Youth Ministry team piled together their current favorite worship songs in a playlist just for you!! Check it out below to pray along with us!