CHARLOTTE — Spring kicks off in the Diocese of Charlotte with youth events that are designed to be both fun and inspirational, starting with the 2026 Bishop’s Youth Pilgrimage and the Diocesan Youth Conference.
“These are opportunities for young people to really deepen their faith and encounter Jesus,” said Daniel Torres, diocesan director of youth and young adult ministry. He said participating in these events helps youth realize “that their faith goes beyond just their parish limits and that they can be Catholic wherever they go in the world.”
Bishop’s Youth Pilgrimage
The events begin March 28 with the Bishop’s Youth Pilgrimage on the grounds of Belmont Abbey College. Last year, the pilgrimage brought more than 1,000 young people together for a day of worship, engaging talks, fellowship, live music, food and games. Online registration closed March 18, but participants can register at the event, although lunch and a T-shirt are not guaranteed. This is not a drop-off event; youth must be accompanied by an adult.
Diocesan Youth Conference
The Diocesan Youth Conference will bring together eighth- through 12th-grade youth for a theme-centered weekend of workshops, speakers, entertainment, Mass, Eucharistic Adoration and confession. Centered around the theme “Recognize His Voice,” the three-day conference helps youth grow deeper in their faith. Registration is open for the April 24-26 event at the Ridgecrest Conference Center in Black Mountain at www.charlottediocese.org/event/diocesan-youth-conference.
World Youth Day 2027
Young adults are encouraged to plan ahead for an international adventure next year. World Youth Day 2027 will take place July 29 to Aug. 10, 2027, in Seoul, South Korea. Thousands of young Catholic pilgrims from across the world will join Pope Leo XIV in an opportunity to encounter Christ through prayer, catechesis, Masses and festivals. Details and an interest form are at www.charlottediocese.org/world-youth-day.
Torres noted these types of events can have a profound impact on youth. “I attended the Bishop’s Youth Pilgrimage, the Diocesan Youth Conference and World Youth Day when I was a young person, and those were really profound moments for my faith,” he said. “I think being able to meet other people outside my parish, to be able to see Christ within other people and the Christian life being lived out in an authentic, beautiful and vibrant way just really inspired me to want to make my faith my own.”
— Trish Stukbauer