New Milwaukee youth group "Arise" gets support from Bp. Hying

A group of youth ministers has launched a new organization aimed at revitalizing southeastern Wisconsin's young Catholic community. And they are hoping to draw hundreds to its debut gathering at 7 p.m. Sept. 24 at St. Josaphat Catholic Church on Milwaukee's south side.

Arise is aimed at bringing together young Catholics of every stripe, whether they are currently practicing or not, said Tom Klind, assistant youth minister at Christ King, St. Pius X and St. Bernard parishes in Wauwatosa. The evening's service will be a mix of contemporary worship and orthodox practice, including Eucharistic adoration.

"There will be something for everyone," said Klind. The target audience is age 18 to 40, but it's open to anyone, he said.

Already 100 people have signed up via Facebook.

Arise has won the support of Milwaukee Auxiliary Bishop Donald Hying, who will offer the benediction at St. Josaphat.

“When you think about it, Jesus called young adults to be His apostles. Now is the time for young people to embrace their Catholic faith in a deeper relationship with Jesus,” Hying said in a statement. Arise plans follow-up gatherings in November, January and April. Look for those dates to be posted on its website at www.arisemilwaukee.org.

 MJS