“I write to you young people because you are strong, the word of God lives in you, and you have defeated the evil one. 1 John 2:14”

As we celebrate International Youth Day, it seems appropriate to make a judgement on the current character of our world’s youth. Having just returned from a mission trip in Argentina, during which I had the opportunity to serve with a missionary congregation of religious called the Servidoras, I am proud to report that there exists thousands of young Catholics who are incredibly bold and passionate about protecting the sanctity of human life and sharing the fullness of the gospel. These men and women, some of whom are below US drinking age, have already given their entire lives to Christ and his Church. Many of these sisters and priests, who entered religious life before their 15th birthdays, are committed to serving Christ in the poor, and are willing to travel wherever their superiors call them to do so. The even better news is that the Servidoras are just one of many different groups of missionaries, religious, students, and professional young people who are selfless, bold, and changing the world with Christ’s love, and I am honored to be a part of this strong new generation.