By Claire Stegeman

 

From Nov. 20–23, Helias Catholic High School students traveled to Indianapolis, Indiana, for the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC), joining more than 17,000 teens from across the country.

Focused on worship, community, and a deeper relationship with Christ, the weekend became an unforgettable encounter with God for Margaux Browning (11).

“Being in Indianapolis made me realize that God is truly present. It is an experience I will never forget,” Browning said.

Browning chose to attend after hearing how powerful the conference had been for classmates who went in 2023.

“I heard nothing but amazing things from peers who went in 2023, and I knew it would be an amazing opportunity for me to grow in my faith with 17,000 others who are there to worship Jesus Christ,” Browning explained.

When she first arrived, she was immediately struck by the energy in the air.

“The environment was electric. Everyone was full of energy and ready to praise and worship,” Browning said.

One of the most impactful moments of the weekend came on Saturday night during Eucharistic adoration. As the Eucharist was exposed, thousands of teens knelt together in reverence and song.

“During adoration on Saturday night, everyone knelt down adoring the exposed Eucharist and singing the songs. Seeing 17,000 others adoring the Lord was so special,” Browning shared.

That moment helped Browning see the depth of faith shared by so many people her age.

Even though the prayers and structure of Mass were the same as at home, the experience at NCYC felt very different to her.

“It was obviously the same process of the Mass, but it felt so different,” Browning explained. “To see everyone participating and limiting distractions made me feel so much more focused and personal within the Mass.”

Surrounded by thousands who were fully engaged, Browning found it easier to pray and enter into the mystery of the Eucharist.

Throughout the weekend, Browning also formed new connections with other young Catholics.

“I met a group of people from Alliance, Nebraska, and they were so filled with faith and ready to have fun worshipping God,” Browning explained.

Being surrounded by so many teens who chose to be there strengthened her sense of belonging in the Church.

“It made me feel like I was home. Seeing thousands of young Catholics who decided to come to NCYC 2025 made me realize that we are so lucky to have these opportunities to participate in the Mass and all sacraments,” Browning reflected.

One of the most unforgettable experiences was being part of the livestream and FaceTime with the pope.

“It was exhilarating to know that we were part of the first people to livestream with the pope,” Browning explained.

Browning was especially struck by his warmth and sincerity.

“He was very personable and very honest with his responses to the questions asked by specific youth,” Browning explained.

Outside of prayer and sessions, NCYC also opened Browning’s eyes to new possibilities for her future.

“It surprised me to see how large the convention center was. There were so many Catholic colleges with little brochures so that we could invest in researching Catholic colleges for our next steps in life,” Browning explained.

The experience helped Browning see how she could continue to grow in her faith beyond high school. 

When she looks back on the weekend, one part stands above the rest.

“My favorite part was being able to experience God so deeply with some of my best friends. Being in Indianapolis made me realize that God is so real and he is truly present,” Browning shared.

The combination of friendship, worship, and powerful moments of prayer left a lasting mark on her heart.

Browning did not return home unchanged. NCYC has inspired her to live her faith more intentionally in everyday life.

“I am bringing back with me the calling to serve more in my parish and in my community,” Browning explained.

For Browning, the conference was not just a trip but a turning point — a reminder that God is present in the Mass, in the sacraments, and in the joyful crowd of young people courageously living their Catholic faith.