The National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM) has announced that its National Youth Advisory Council (NYAC) will take part in a synodal delegation to West Africa this August. The visit aims to give young people an opportunity to observe the Catholic Church’s efforts in promoting justice and human development abroad. After their trip, participants are expected to share their experiences with parish communities and at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) scheduled for November in Indianapolis.

Archbishop Nelson Pérez of Philadelphia, who serves as Chair of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and Episcopal Advisor to NFCYM, invited NYAC members to join CRS on a trip to Ghana. The purpose is for them to witness firsthand how the Church works towards justice and human dignity internationally and then report back their observations to youth across the United States.

“I am filled with excitement to have this opportunity to accompany a synodal delegation of young people to Ghana and have them see firsthand the work of Catholic Relief Services. As Chair of CRS and Episcopal Advisor to NFCYM, I can’t think of a more powerful opportunity for our young Church to witness firsthand the transformative work of the Gospel in action. This synodal delegation will not only deepen their understanding of global solidarity and human dignity but also empower them to become bold witnesses of faith and justice in their own communities. I look forward to walking with them, learning from them, and celebrating the light they will bring back to share at NCYC and beyond.” said Archbishop Nelson Pérez of Philadelphia.

The NYAC is composed of youth from various states including California, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Montana, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Texas. The council was established so that voices from young Catholics nationwide could be included in NFCYM’s mission.

During their time abroad and upon return, council members plan collaborative efforts with local diocesan communities as well as among themselves. They intend for their message about what they learn during the trip—regarding issues such as global solidarity—to reach other young Catholics through digital campaigns, blogs, video projects, and personal reflections.

Valeria Torres from the Diocese of San Diego expressed her anticipation about participating: “I am so excited and feel super blessed to have the opportunity to travel to Ghana this August with Catholic Relief Services. Being on the council was already a blessing, and the invitation to participate in this delegation is more than I could have expected. It is an amazing opportunity that I know I will never forget. I look forward to growing in my faith and this experience.”

Further details about NFCYM can be found at https://nfcym.org/.