Christ Unlimited. That was the theme for this year's Youth Conference. This was my second Couples for Christ-Youth Conference, and I admit I was both excited and nervous to attend this conference. It was hosted in Washington D.C., and coming from Southern California, the Southwest region, the atmosphere was different. It was unexpected, but it was interesting. Seeing 800+ other youth who are all part of the family, the community we call CFC-Y, was just mind blowing. Seeing 800+ other youth who go through household meetings, had their own Joining Camps, had their own Discovery Camps, and so on, was life changing. I remember a sharer said, "If you encounter the Lord tonight, it would be such a shame to go home and be the same person as before." That is so true.
This conference strengthened my prayer life. Prior to this conference, I had a bit of a dry spell when it came to my personal prayer time, but with the reflections, with Talk 2 and the words, "If you are able to answer who is Jesus Christ to me, then how can you not pray?", I was able to change my prayer life for the better. I've learned to listen to God's words, and not just send Him my requests. This conference also taught me more about having an "attitude of gratitude", and how to be more grateful for what I have, because some people badly want what I have. Learning about the Corporal Works of Mercy, and how to perform each work, and even performing some of the works during the conference opened my eyes more to the Jubilee Year of Mercy!
What I also liked about the Youth Conference being in Washington D.C. was that our group extended our time in D.C. so we could explore together. Praise God and we were able to stay in D.C. for about a week, and we were able to see the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, and even have mass in the Crypt Church. We got to see the shrine of St. John Paul II (which was probably one of my favorite places), and we even got to visit the Smithsonian museums and the Holocaust museum!
This Youth Conference truly opened my eyes and my heart to desire mission. To desire going out of my chapter, my area, and to serve others. Christ's love is unlimited. God's love is free, and this conference truly taught me what it means to desire God and God only. Christ Unlimited. How true! There is no end to Christ's love for us, which is obvious when we view the crucifix, His love is everlasting. I'm thankful for those who supported the Youth, every sponsor, and everyone who donated in order to send us off to this Youth Conference! See you next year in Las Vegas for YCON 2017! Praise God!