By: Joe Bedard
Last weekend, SBVOC and Our Lady of the Valley in Hemet teamed up to host the first-ever Holy Coming, an event that transformed the typical high school church experience into an unforgettable evening of faith, fun, and fervent joy. It was a night that brought together the sacraments, music, and moments of awe, leaving students inspired and renewed in their faith.
Reconciliation: A Fresh Start
The evening began with the Sacrament of Reconciliation, inviting students to prepare their hearts for the celebration ahead. Priests were available throughout the church for confession, creating a sacred and peaceful start to the night. Many students reflected afterward that it was the perfect way to enter into the evening with open hearts and minds.
A Feast Under the Lights
Following reconciliation, the parking Lot came alive with the arrival of the In-N-Out truck. Students and volunteers lined up for burgers, fries, and fellowship under the twinkling lights. Conversations buzzed with excitement about what was to come as friends gathered around tables, sharing laughs and enjoying the laid-back atmosphere.
A Performance Full of Fire
Inside the gym, the energy soared as Father Gino took the stage for a performance that was anything but ordinary. The crowd erupted into cheers as he juggled balls, rode unicycles, and even juggled fire! Father Gino mixed humor and a beautiful message with jaw-dropping skill.
“I’ve never been to a church event like this,” one student shared. “Seeing a priest juggling fire made me realize that Catholicism can be so much fun. It was such a cool way to show that joy and faith go hand in hand.”
A Message of Hope
After the performance, the gym quieted down, as Father Bryant delivered a powerful talk about finding joy in Christ amidst the chaos of high school life. He spoke about the stress of balancing homework, sports, and activities, and how it often leaves little room for excitement or inspiration.
“But Jesus is worth getting excited for,” he reminded the students. “He is the source of true joy, and no matter how overwhelming life feels, He’s always there to walk with you.”
The message struck a chord with many. “I’ve been to a lot of youth events, but this one really felt different,” another student said. “Father Bryant’s talk reminded me that being Catholic doesn’t have to be serious all the time—it can be full of joy and excitement.”
Adoration: A Sacred Encounter
As the talk ended, the room shifted to a sacred stillness as the Blessed Sacrament was brought in for adoration. The Scotty Van Horn Band led worship, providing music that helped guide students into prayer and reflection. The combination of candlelight, reverent music, and the presence of Christ created a deeply moving experience.
“Adoration is always powerful, but doing it here, surrounded by friends, after such a joyful night—it was incredible,” one student reflected. “I felt closer to God than I have in a long time.”
Dancing with Joy
With hearts renewed, the crowd transitioned back to celebration as the Scotty Van Horn Band turned up the energy for open dancing. Students filled the gym floor, moving to a mix of worship songs and dance hits, laughing, singing, and celebrating the joy of the Lord.
A Night to Remember
Holy Coming wasn’t just another church event; it was a celebration that redefined what it means to live out faith as a high schooler. From the fire-juggling to adoration, the entire night reminded everyone that Jesus and Catholicism are not only meaningful but also vibrant and joyful.
“This event was unlike anything I’ve ever been to,” one student said. “It left me feeling excited about my faith again, and it was amazing to see that following Jesus can be so much fun.”
Holy Coming lit a spark in every heart present, and the flames of faith and joy will continue to burn brightly long after the night is over. It was a powerful reminder that celebrating God can truly be the highlight of our lives.
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