The wise and wonderful Sister John Paul, O.P. (DSMME), wants everyone (especially students who might not have heard yet) to know about the upcoming Youth 2000 event. It is sponsored by Rhodora J. Donahue Academy of Ave Maria and will take place in the Ave Maria University ballroom. There is a requested fee, but scholarships are available to all who ask (just write “partial/full scholarship requested” on the application).

Forms are below. Here is the note that Sister sent me:

An extraordinary opportunity for area young people, ages 13-20, to attend a YOUTH 2000 Retreat the weekend of April 4 – 6, 2004 is being sponsored by the Donahue Academy in Ave Maria, FL.

In 1990, YOUTH 2000 answered the challenge of Blessed Pope John Paul II when he called for a decade of evangelization.  Since that time, YOUTH 2000 has offered over 500 Eucharistic centered Retreats to young people. YOUTH 2000 continues to respond to this call by offering a Retreat that touches the hearts of young people and renews in them the desire to know, love and live their Catholic Faith.   The YOUTH 2000 Retreat is a joyful weekend experience that includes the celebration of the Mass, Adoration, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, talks, music, workshops (divided by age groups and gender), and fellowship.  There has been an overwhelmingly positive response from youth and adults, and many priestly and religious vocations have come from those who have attended the Retreat.

On December 12, 2000,  YOUTH 2000 received an Imprimatur on the YOUTH 2000 Retreat Program from Archbishop William Lori, and the nihil obstat from Archbishop Augustine DiNoia, O.P.

We are delighted to have five members of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal who have committed to coming and leading the retreat.

While the registration fee is only $50 for the weekend, which includes a lunch, a dinner and snacks during the retreat, full and partial scholarships are gladly offered to all youth who would otherwise be unable to attend.  Simply write “partial scholarship requested” or “full scholarship requested” on your registration form to note your request.  Checks should be made out to “Donahue Catholic”.  Please note that only page 1 of the form needs to be filled out by regular attendees (page 2 is for youth ministers, chaperones and volunteers).  Please note that there are no overnight accommodations.

A flier with more information about the event, the schedule for the weekend and a registration form have been attached for your reference.  The registration deadline is March 25th.  Forms and registration monies may be turned into the front office at the Donahue Academy (or mailed to the school – 4955 Seton Way, Ave Maria FL 34142) in envelopes marked “YOUTH 2000.” Please join us in praying for the spiritual success of the retreat weekend!

Thank you and God bless you.

Sister John Paul, O.P.