“Youth ministry is certainly something the archbishop has close to his heart,” Dagenais said.

The proceeds from the dinner will go to two beneficiaries: NET Ministries of Canada, an organization dedicated to the evangelization of youth, and Famille Marie-Jeunesse, a relatively new Catholic community of discerning youth, young consecrated religious sisters and priests, and families based in Sherbrooke, Que., who follow a Marian and eucharistic spirituality.

Dagenais said Famille Marie-Jeunesse is discussing with the bishop ways in which it can establish a presence in Ottawa and outreach to the city’s youth.

“Both of these groups have a great track record in youth ministry,” Dagenais said.

He added that the purpose for the annual dinner could change in the future, but the youth focus seemed like a good way to start something that also brings people together.

“He (the archbishop) saw this as a time to gather as a community of faith,” he said.

The dinner will take place at the Hampton Inn Ottawa and Conference Centre, 200 Coventry Rd., at 7 p.m.  Tickets cost $125 per person or $1,000 for a table of eight. Ticket order forms are due before Oct. 20 and people can get them through their parish or by calling Dagenais at (613) 738-5025, or through e-mail at jdagenais@ecclesia-ottawa.org .