A Great New Family in Texas

Will Costello
Brought to Texas because of my job, I often found myself missing my home, my friends, and my family, lost in a strange new state. Once I stumbled across the 20somethings, I was welcomed with open arms by a great new family in Texas, one that combined a special bond of faith that was instantly deeper than most of my friendships previously. I thank everyone in the 20somethings everyday for showing me things about myself and my faith that I ever knew or never realized before…everyday has been great…from small groups to volleyball to theology on tap, retreats, and parties…I have sincerley found a home in Texas! Thanks!

Thanks For Accepting Me As Is

Ally Ramsey
Almost all of my prayers throughout the day or weeks are laced with thanks for this group. The people that have crossed my path, and would not have if it were not for 20somethings. I would kiss Jen Jones’ feet every time I see her if I could, for fostering this group along in its early days, among others that helped her. God is awesome, and being Catholic is unique. Thank goodness there is a group like this and even one that follows now after you are 30!! yea! It just keeps getting better. Thanks for accepting me as is, and loving every group member for who they are. My prayer and wish for everyone is good health, good spirits, and for everyone to find their own unique path to God’s grace and love. And to remain on that path along all of life’s turbulances! with mucho amor! ally

The Best Part of Austin

Justin Golbabai
This out-of-college, not yet married period of life can be a bit daunting, if not down right scary. Where do I go outside of work to meet friends and hang out on the weekends? With whom can I go to share my faith, my hopes, and my dreams? If I want to serve others, what do I do?

I had all these questions in my head when I moved to Austin in February 2007, barely knowing anyone. I have to admit, I was nervous the first time I came to the 5:00 mass at St. Theresa’s and introduced myself to the Catholic 20 Somethings. What if these people don’t like me and what if I don’t fit in? Well, that investment in courage paid off BIG time. From that mass and dinner, I joined a small faith-sharing group and got to dive in deep and engage in great weekly Catholic discussions. Between the volleyball games and the service projects, I got to make friends that have so many different professions and interests that I don’t know how else I would ever meet them. Two years later, I must say that my favorite part of Austin, Texas is the Catholic 20 Somethings. My best friends in Austin are people I met through the Catholic 20 Somethings. They are the rare down to earth, fun friends my own age that I can laugh with and pray with.

As the Catholic 20 Somethings Coordinator, I never ceased to be amazed at the gifts, talents, and passions of our members (of which I could only dream of having). Whether it’s a passion for service, musical talent, knowledge of theology, webpage design, or just a welcoming smile—somehow we are able to come together as the Body of Christ to make this ministry so vibrant. Each person who joins our Catholic 20 Somethings family adds something special and each member that moves away is sorely missed. A community that cares, is passionate, and seeks the truth—that’s something truly special!

Here, I Feel Loved and Appreciated

Sarah Saniuk
I joined the 20-Somethings in August of this year, just in time to go on the 3rd annual retreat. Over the last few months…and after becoming pretty much obsessed with the group…I have been so blessed to find the most amazing friends and such a strong support system. It was intimidating to join such a huge, tight-knit group, and it is still overwhelming at times (but overwhelming in such a good way!) to know how many people I can catch up with and how many people I have yet to meet! I thank God that He helped me leap out of my comfort zone to come to my first Mass, because I now have the greatest friends in the world who teach me everyday how to be a better friend, daughter, sister, and servant of God.

Here, I feel loved and appreciated each day. I see the best smiling faces EVER! I get the best hugs! I can talk about actual issues that are important to us as young Catholics and never EVER feel judged. I can learn about my faith without ever asking, but by observing. I can pray whenever I want. I can praise the Lord out loud. I see Jesus in so many more things. I am learning to be a better person every single day. And in EVERY single moment, I am praising God, I am thankful, and I know I am blessed.

Striving for Holiness

Trey Ange
There is no better ministry than the Catholic 20-somethings. This is an age group of Catholics who have been crying out and reaching for a ministry for many many years. This is our prime time to either stay with our faith, or fall away from it. That simple.

The Catholic 20-somethings has helped me fall completely in love with my Catholic faith even more than I ever thought I could. I really enjoy the fact that there are other young Catholics who share my love for the faith & companionship. I LOVE the Catholic 20-somethings as a group and each individual member.

Nothing makes me feel like I’m in a real community than being surrounded by other Catholics in their 20’s who go through the same problems, face the same challenges & strive for holiness on a daily basis.

Relentless Loyalty

Mary McClory
The 20somethings has absolutely saved me and my faith. The relentless loyalty that comes just with being a consistent member of this group is breath taking. There’s so much positivity and encouragement everywhere you go, and everyone’s gifts are embraced. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of friends when I needed it most.