Finding Faith at Notre Dame

By Tom Fregoso, Coordinator for Youth and Family Ministry.

This June, I had the privilege of traveling with two of our recently confirmed high school students to Notre Dame Vision, a Catholic summer program hosted by the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Indiana. This was my second time attending, and I’m happy to share that it was just as impactful—if not more so—than my first experience. Before arriving in South Bend, the two young men and their moms flew out early to explore Chicago together. They caught a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, enjoyed deep-dish pizza, and soaked in the sights and sounds of the city. These shared moments—between mothers and sons, before the pace of life speeds up with college and careers—became treasured memories before the program even began.

I met the group on campus just as Vision kicked off. Over dinner, the parents shared how grateful they were that their sons had this opportunity—to explore their Catholic faith beyond the classroom, build community, and engage in prayer and reflection on a national level. Notre Dame Vision gathers hundreds of teens from across the country to reflect on their Catholic identity through talks, small groups, liturgy, and the sacraments. What sets it apart is that the small groups are led by college-aged peer ministers—young adults who understand the pressures and questions our teens carry.

Our students were deeply moved by these small groups. One of them shared that it felt like “a safe space” where he could speak honestly—something he didn’t expect to find. They were surprised by how much they appreciated the sacramental life offered during the week, especially Reconciliation and Adoration. One student even said he’d be open to going to Reconciliation again back at St. Ignatius—a quiet but powerful step forward. On the final night, they gathered at the Grotto with their small groups for prayer and gratitude. Each person shared words of encouragement and affirmation with the others. For many, this was the first time they had received that kind of personal appreciation in a truly face-to-face, spiritual setting.

What makes Notre Dame Vision so special is the way it surrounds youth with a vibrant Catholic community. The week blends sacramental moments, spiritual conversations, and serious faith formation with a huge dose of fun. Our students played games, attended hilarious and moving student-led musicals, and even encountered Scripture through the lens of high school-friendly biblical exegesis—deepening their understanding without overwhelming them. These kinds of positive, joyful experiences—where faith is something you can lean into with hundreds of your peers—can be priceless for young people. They help plant the seeds of a lifelong relationship with God and the Church. That mix of prayer, laughter, curiosity, and connection may be one of the most effective forms of evangelization we can offer today. While the students participated in the youth track, I joined the CYM (Campus and Youth Ministers) track—a special program designed for adult leaders accompanying young people in their faith. I met passionate ministers from across the country and found the workshops, conversations, and liturgies incredibly enriching. Even though this was my second time at Vision, I found myself renewed by the experience. But the greatest joy by far was witnessing our young people grow in confidence, friendship, and faith. These kinds of moments remind me why youth ministry matters. They’re a reminder that seeds planted during Confirmation or Mass can take root and bloom in powerful ways—especially when young people feel seen, supported, and invited into something deeper.

This trip wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of our parish donors. Their belief in the importance of faith formation for our youth made it possible for two families and one very grateful youth minister to experience a week of grace, friendship, and renewal. As we continue to walk with our young people here at St. Ignatius Parish, I invite all of us to keep them in prayer. There is so much goodness unfolding in their lives—and our community plays a vital role in nurturing it.

Tom Fregoso, Youth Ministry Coordinator