In this episode of Connecting the Diocese, host Clint Berge interviews John Schmidt, Co-Director of Disciple Formation at St. Anne Parish in Wausau, Wisconsin. They discuss the significance of the upcoming National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) in November 2025, an event that aims to inspire and deepen the faith of middle and high school youths. John provides an in-depth overview of his role, the importance of accompanying youth in their faith journeys, and the various activities and spiritual experiences that attendees can expect at NCYC. He emphasizes the long-term impact this conference can have on both participants and their local communities and shares stories of previous events that have touched lives profoundly. Learn how you can register your youth and the importance of preparing parish communities for the returned fervor of their young attendees.

00:00  Introduction and Welcome

00:34  Meet John Schmidt: Co-Director of Disciple Formation

00:54  The Role and Passion of a Youth Minister

02:47  The Importance of Evangelizing Youth

03:39  Introduction to NCYC: National Catholic Youth Conference

07:35  The Significance of Sacraments at NCYC

12:47  A Day in the Life at NCYC

17:02  The Impact of NCYC on Youth and Community

18:49  Historical Participation and Personal Experiences

23:27  Encouraging Teens to Attend NCYC

24:52  The Impact of NCYC on Teen Faith

27:02  Experiencing Adoration at NCYC

30:20  Long-Term Effects of NCYC

33:09  Preparing Parishes for Returning Teens

40:36  The Role of Disciple Formation

45:11  Authenticity in Youth Faith

47:32  Concluding Thoughts and Registration Details