Bridgeport, Conn., Aug 28, 2007 / 09:29 am (CNA).- Last Saturday, the Diocese of Bridgeport in Connecticut held a highly successful youth rally for over 500 high school students to celebrate and grow closer to Christ through prayer with teens from over 25 parishes.

The event was organized by the Diocese of Bridgeport who ensured that the Blessed Sacrament was exposed throughout the day and that the teens were given the opportunity to go to confession, attend talks and speak with the many priests and seminarians who attended the rally. The event concluded with a Mass celebrated by Bishop William E. Lori and concelebrated by 10 priests.

A prayer campaign was also launched during the retreat and the youth responded so generously that the goal of offering 1500 visits to the Blessed Sacrament for Pope Benedict XVI and his intentions was easily surpassed.
 
One high school senior raved, "The Fan the Fire Youth Rally was a great opportunity for me to not only explore my faith, but do it with so many others.  It was clearly evident that the speakers truly believed what they were telling us, making their speeches, advice, and insight that much more meaningful.  The entire day was a learning experience, which for me, included a nonjudgmental examination of conscience while listening and reflecting.  What I experienced at the Fan the Fire Youth Rally has boosted my faith and has made me a prouder and stronger person and believer in the Catholic Faith."

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