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“Do not leave your faith here,” Fr. Vasyl Kupar reminded the teens as the ByzanTEEN Youth Rally came to a close in a spirit of joy, prayer, and deep encounter with Christ.
Over four days at John Carroll University in Cleveland, Ohio, teens from across the Byzantine Catholic Church came together for worship, fellowship, formation, and fun. They prayed the divine services, received the holy mysteries, engaged in meaningful conversations with our bishops, and reflected in small groups on how God is working in their lives. The rally offered hands‑on opportunities to grow in faith and community—from chotki‑making and sports to a bistro social event that strengthened friendships.
A major highlight was the Rise Against Hunger service project, where our youth packaged 20,000 meals in under two hours, witnessing to Christ through active love for those in need. The teens also heard a keynote address from Ben Olsen, Founder and CEO of Interintelligence and Executive Director of the Faith Family Technology Network, who encouraged them to think faithfully and responsibly about the role of technology and AI in our world.
Thank you to all of our ByzanTEENS, clergy, volunteers, speakers, and organizers whose dedication made this Rally a blessed and memorable experience. Your enthusiasm and witness remind us that the future of our church is bright.
As we return home, may we carry with us the joy, friendships, and spiritual renewal of this gathering—continuing to live, grow in, and share our Byzantine Catholic Faith wherever God calls us. “Take courage” (Jn 16:33).
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