Youth Speak News
TORONTO - Pope Francis’ “profound sense of authenticity” is what attracts young people to the pontiff, says Catholic media personality Cheridan Sanders.
Tragedy comes to Toronto’s streets
By James Mangaliman, Youth Speak NewsWhen temperatures dropped to -12 degrees Celsius in early January, a homeless man dressed only in a t-shirt and jeans was stuck on the cold streets of downtown Toronto. Vulnerable to the freezing temperature and bitter winds, he sought protection in a bus shelter.
Conversion therapy is unlike Christ
By Bianca Reátegui, Youth Speak NewsFour years ago, a priest gave a homily that has stuck in my mind ever since: “God loves you and there is nothing you can do about it.” He continued to say that there wasn’t a single thing a person could do, nor was there a single thing about a person that would make God stop loving that person — not his or her gender, race or sexual orientation.
Students of varying faiths choose Catholic colleges
By Erin Jamieson, Youth Speak NewsWATERLOO, ONT. - Every Sunday evening, the voices of the St. Jerome’s University choir can be heard ringing from Siegried Hall, where they practice before students gather for Mass, fellowship and a break from their busy lives.
Mass appreciation for January 1st
By Vincent Mastromatteo, Youth Speak NewsWhen it comes to celebrating New Year’s, going to Mass is often the last thing on peoples’ minds. I always wondered why Jan. 1 is a day of obligation, requiring Catholics to attend Mass at the start of the year.
Combat climate change, say youth
By Ruane Remy, The Catholic RegisterTORONTO - Having their views heard on a world stage has made students from a Toronto Catholic high school realize their voice on climate change does matter.
Believing beyond our childhood
By James Mangaliman, Youth Speak NewsChris Van Allsburg’s book The Polar Express is a classic Christmas tale read to many children in homes and schools. In 32 pages, Allsburg captures the magic of Christmas through the eyes of a boy who visits Santa’s Workshop via a mysterious train one snowy C hristmas Eve. The boy receives a gift from Santa Claus, a bell, which rings only to those who “believe.”
Advent app guides families
By Erin Jamieson, Youth Speak NewsA new Advent web app is keeping busy families focused on Christ this holiday season.
Divorcing ourselves from parents’ mistakes
By Kathleen Rose Kennedy, Youth Speak NewsIt is difficult to imagine my parents no longer loving each other and living separately. It would be heartbreaking. At whose place would I choose to celebrate Christmas?
Jock picks God over game
By Vincent Mastromatteo, Youth Speak NewsBr. Nathan Wayne had an atypical road to the religious life.
A self-described “total jock” during his high school years in Syracuse, N.Y., he was a star player on the Christian Brothers Academy basketball team, a school renowned for its athletics, and also enjoyed football and skiing. The now 26-year-old member of the Legion of Christ credits a few committed recruiters with leading him to where he is today, serving youth across Ontario.
Students fight to end radicalization
By James Mangaliman, Youth Speak NewsTORONTO - Islamic student groups across Canada are joining forces to combat youth radicalization and the extremist influence of ISIS.