WASHINGTON D.C.– The National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM) announces that the National Youth Advisory Council (NYAC) will participate in a synodal delegation to West Africa this August to deepen their understanding and witness the Catholic Church’s vital efforts in advancing justice and human development. These young people will formally share their experience in their parish communities and at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in November in Indianapolis, IN. 

Archbishop Nelson Perez, Chair of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) and NFCYM’s Episcopal Advisor, has invited the NYAC participants to travel with CRS on a synodal delegation to Ghana this summer to witness firsthand how the Catholic Church promotes justice and human development abroad and to report back to the youth of the United States what they have seen. 

“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 Perez of Philadelphia. 

The National Youth Advisory Council is a diverse group of young people who speak on behalf of the youth of the United States to ensure that the voices of young people are integrated into the mission and work of NFCYM. The members represent various parts of the country (i.e., California, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, Montana, New York, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Texas) and cultures. 

The council will work collaboratively with their local and diocesan communities, and with all members of NYAC to ensure the message of their experience reaches the young church. Their efforts will include digital campaigns, blogs, video projects, and witness reflections. 

“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.” said Valeria Torres of the Diocese of San Diego, a National Youth Advisory Council member.