Recently, a mom of one of our
Ablaze Youth Group members saw the Youth Area at the parish and said,
“This is exactly what youth need—a Third Space.”A
Third Space is a social environment beyond home (the first space) & school or work (the second space)—a place where people can relax, connect, & build community.
Young people- & people of every age-can find their Third Space at Church. The
Church can be that Third Space where people find:
- Connection — a place to meet others & share life and faith.
- Well-being — a place that helps lessen isolation, especially in our digital & post-pandemic world.
- Belonging — a place for community, conversation, friendship, & support.
Perhaps that is what makes the Church such a beautiful Third Space: a place where we are welcomed, known, loved, & invited into a life with Christ.
Today, we celebrate the
Beatification of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen —a significant step on the journey toward sainthood. Blessed Fulton J. Sheen was a beloved Catholic archbishop, author, & gifted evangelist whose teaching brought the message of Christ to millions through television, radio, and the written word as a priest from 1919 until his death in 1979 at 60 years.
In honour of this joyful occasion, we reflect on his powerful words, that are at the heart of
Ablaze Family Ministries, "Life is worth living.”May this be a reminder that every life has dignity, purpose, & meaning in Christ. As our mission statement says, we seek to be a welcoming & joyful spiritual
home where young people & families encounter the Holy Family of Jesus, choose to follow Him, & discover that
life is worth living.