Florida Catholic | Youths Become Warriors For God

Youths become warriors for God

TERESA LANTIGUA PETERSON | SPECIAL TO THE FLORIDA CATHOLIC

Published: 08.15.08

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ORLANDO | Youths at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish in the Avalon Park section of Orlando have declared war on sin. Teens who belong to the new “Warriors of Worship” group at the parish are learning how to make choices that help them grow closer to God and stronger in their faith.

“It’s fun and it’s a good way to gather and express our faith,” said 10th-grade participant Evan San Martin.

On Aug. 3, the new warriors gathered for their first “Warrior Initiation Games” that included a game of tug-of-war and a marshmallow slingshot. According to organizers, the friendly competition helped them learn what it means to be a warrior for God.

“Draw your strength from the Lord and from his mighty power. Put on the armor of God so that you may stand firm against the tactics of evil,” organizer Julia Vorster told the teens during a prayer service at the event.

The new youth group has already helped provide food and clothing to the homeless. They also volunteer with the diocesan Mission Office, which benefits needy families in the Dominican Republic.

“Our mission is to inspire the youths of our parish and community to grow closer to their faith by opening their hearts to the light of the Holy Spirit through the word of God our Father and the teachings of our Savior, Jesus Christ,” said youth minister Vivian Lack.

Peterson is communications manager for the Diocese of Orlando.

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