“God has written a unique and unrepeatable story for each of us, but He lets us write the ending.”

– Blessed Carlo Acutis

Welcome to Youth Ministry at St. Anthony of Padua, a place where faith comes alive and the adventure begins. We believe God invites each young person into a story bigger than themselves, a journey of growth, purpose, and to become the saint they were created to be.

Our goal is to build a vibrant community of young disciples who grow in faith, serve with compassion, and encounter Christ in real, lasting ways through honest conversations, unforgettable experiences, and authentic friendships.

We explore big questions, share real moments, and discover joy in walking with Christ — together.

Let’s fan the flame of faith and step boldly into the journey ahead.

IGNITE: Youth Ministry for Middle School

Ignite is our middle school ministry, created for students from both our Religious Education Program and St. Anthony of Padua School. It’s where faith, fun, and friendship come alive.

NEW STRUCTURE:
Ignite now meets weekly, but with a two-part rhythm:

• Two Wednesdays each month are Confirmation Prep nights for 7th and 8th grade Religious Ed students.
• The other two Wednesdays are open Youth Ministry nights for all middle schoolers, featuring games, talks, prayer, and time to grow in community.

Whether you’re preparing for Confirmation, attending Catholic school, or just looking for a place to explore your faith — Ignite is for you.

Through games, prayer, talks, and small group conversations, Ignite helps students explore what it means to follow Jesus in their everyday lives—and have a blast doing it. From the Shine Youth Rally and goofy “Pizza-lympics” to bowling with Fr. Tony, our summer Whitecaps game, and moments in Adoration with praise and worship, Ignite invites middle schoolers to take real ownership of their faith while building lasting friendships and memories.

Bring a friend. Ask the hard questions. Let your faith catch fire.

Ignite meets on Wednesday evenings from 6 – 7:30 PM.

ABLAZE: Youth Ministry for High School

Ablaze is all about real-life discipleship. Each month, high school teens gather for a fun activity—think bonfires, escape rooms, bowling—and then break into small groups to go deeper.

It’s casual. It’s relational. And it’s a space where teens can be honest about life and faith, surrounded by people who are walking the same path.

Come with a friend or come solo. Either way, you’ll find community, purpose, and a faith that can carry you through anything.

Ablaze meets once a month at various locations around Grand Rapids.

Contact:

Zaven Mouradian, Director of Youth Ministry
zmouradian@saparish.com | (616) 453-8229, ext. 106