The parish communities of Our Lady of Consolation and Holy Martyrs Parish in Merrillville, Holy Name of Jesus in Cedar Lake, St. John the Evangelist in St. John, and St. Joseph in Dyer are welcoming all young adults to a speaker series on the Catholic faith this summer.
Embark on a transformative journey of faith and fellowship with a Summer Young Adult Speaker Series, curated for Catholic young adults ages 18-39, with a dynamic exploration of topics that resonate deeply with the Catholic Church, from the profound mystery of the Eucharist to the call to selfless service in local communities.
“In a world marked by division and discord, discover how our faith can help bring about unity and reconciliation,” urged Vicky Hathaway, Diocese of Gary Ministry Team member for Youth and Young Adults.
“These enriching opportunities can not only deepen your understanding of the Catholic faith, but also equip you with practical insights on how to live out your faith every day, inspiring you to be a beacon of light and love in the world,” added Hathaway, “Join other young adults in the diocese for fellowship, dialogue and prayer.”
To learn more or to RSVP, visit garyoyya.org/yasummer
The schedule of speakers will begin May 22 and continue weekly on Wednesday or Thursday through June 26:
Bobby Fredericksen at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 22, at Northwoods Falls (upstairs private party room), 8101 U.S. 41, St. John, hosted by St. John the Evangelist, St. John.
A Catholic convert, husband, and father of two, Fredericksen is the co-host of “The Catholic Couple Podcast” and “Purposely Catholic Podcast,” sharing insights and experiences as a Catholic navigating modern life.
“Theology on Draft: Holy Communion and Conversation” is his topic. One free drink ticket and desserts will be provided.
Missionaries from Christ in the City at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 29, at Holy Martyrs church, Merrillville. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for pizza and fellowship.
“Unlocking Healing Through Human Connection: The Christ in the City Approach” is the topic for an inspiring talk on how Christ in the City approaches homeless ministry by prioritizing human connection. Through the simple yet profound act of walking the streets, missionaries offer listening ears, love, and presence to those in need.
Witness how the power of friendship breaks down barriers, reconnects individuals with loved ones, and ignites a journey of healing.
Matt Kresich at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 6, in the Holy Name of Jesus school gym, Cedar Lake.
Kresich is a speaker and writer who serves as the Youth and Young Adult Minister at Holy Name and is a graduate student at the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago. He and his wife Carissa have been married for eight months.
His topic is “Unity in a Divided World.” Jesus prayed that we “all might be one,” yet polarization, distrust and fear dominate the headlines. Explore how young adults can be prime candidates to bring about reconciliation and unity in a divided world.
Claudia Sadowski, Ph.D., at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 13, on the lawn behind the church at Our Lady of Consolation, Merrillville. Gather for a bonfire and presentation with refreshments and s’mores. Please bring a lawn chair. If it rains, the event will be held inside.
Sadowski, new Intercultural Ministry coordinator for the Diocese of Gary, has taught in a variety of settings and strives to live a life of mission. She and her husband have been married 32 years and have three daughters and seven grandchildren.
“The title of her talk is “Beloved.” Often, a person’s identity is defined by their career, possessions, or successes or failures.
Martin Gianotti at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 20, in the gathering room of the church basement after a Holy Hour at 6 p.m. at St. Joseph church, Dyer.
Gianotti’s journey into sharing the Catholic faith began during his college years. Through his Marian Consecration and devout recitation of the rosary, he felt a calling to enroll at Ave Maria University, where he underwent significant personal and spiritual growth. He met his wife, Maria, and they have a daughter, Lucia. His professional background encompasses teaching Theology and English at the junior high level.
“Our Lady’s 3 Not-So-Secret Ingredients to Holiness” is his topic. Being the best mother ever, Our Lady is always seeking to lead Catholics to live holy lives closely united with her son.
Father Steven Caraher at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, June 26, outdoors at the St. John the Evangelist Day Chapel, 11301 W 93rd Ave., St John.
“A Day in the Life of a New Priest” is the topic for Deacon Caraher, who will be ordained to the priesthood on June 1. A bonfire and welcome back party will be hosted for Father Caraher, who will share a reflection on the first month of his priesthood. Please bring a potluck item and meet and park at the house behind the day chapel.
A 28-year-old native of Munster and St. Thomas More, Deacon Caraher studied mathematics and computer science at Indiana University before discerning his calling to the priesthood. He had summer assignments ranging from youth ministry and homebound care to social media outreach and homeless ministry.