Participants in Big Island Youth Day gathered for a photo around the traveling Jubilee cross March 1 after the daylong event at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Kailua-Kona. (Courtesy photo)
By the Big Island Youth Day Planning Team
Special to the Herald
HILO — On March 1, Big Island Youth Day brought together teens from across the Big Island for a day of reflection, spiritual growth and connection. Held at St. Michael the Archangel Grace Parish Center in Kailua-Kona, the event focused on the theme “Disconnect to Reconnect: Find Hope in Christ’s Presence.”
The event, designed for youth in sixth through 12th grades, encouraged participants to step away from the distractions of daily life and embrace a deeper connection with Christ.
Teens were asked to disconnect from their electronic devices, allowing them to engage fully in the day’s activities and conversations. This was a chance to reflect on the pros and cons of electronic devices and how technology can often distance people from meaningful, real-world interactions and spiritual growth.
This year’s theme drew inspiration from the National Day of Unplugging; the Jubilee Year with its call for the faithful to be “Pilgrims of Hope”; and the spirit of Mardi Gras.
Participants explored the deeper purpose of Mardi Gras, which traditionally was a time of feasting before the sacrifices of Lent. Using the symbolism of Mardi Gras masks, teens reflected on how we wear “masks” in everyday life — hiding true emotions or struggles — and how God calls us to authenticity in our relationship with him and others.
A special session on the Jubilee Cross symbolized the pilgrimage of hope upon which the youth are called to embark, emphasizing the importance of hope in their spiritual journey. Through the beatitudes and the sacraments, teens learned how to find true hope by living with humility, mercy and righteousness — values that are at the core of Christ’s message.
A key highlight of the day was the reflection on the Eucharist — the real presence of Christ. Teens were reminded that Jesus is always with us, not just in fleeting moments, but through the eternal gift of the Eucharist.
In John 6:51, Jesus says, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever.” This reminder encouraged participants to reconnect with Christ and take time in their daily lives for prayer, Mass and spiritual growth, recognizing the Eucharist as a source of hope and strength.
The day concluded with an inspiring Mass during which teens reflected on Luke 6:39-45, which calls for spiritual clarity and humility in how we live and lead others.
This passage inspired the youth to understand that true discipleship is rooted in love, and their mission is to bear good fruit by living faithfully and lovingly.
Big Island Youth Day 2025 was a powerful reminder that in a world filled with distractions, it is through disconnecting that they will find reconnection with God, hope in the Eucharist and renewed strength to walk their pilgrimage of faith.
For more information on Big Island Youth Day, contact the diocesan Office of Evangelization and Catechesis at (808) 203-6763.
