Centennial Celebration Update

Amarillo—Preparations continue for the celebration of the Centennial of the Diocese of Amarillo, according to Father Lawrence John, JCL, Vicar General.

Communion is the theme for the months of April and May.  
 
“As we celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Diocese of Amarillo, the months of April and May invite us to live the theme of Communion by deepening our unity with God and one another,” said Father John. “This invitation took on special meaning during Holy Week and continues in the Easter season, when Christ reveals that true communion is rooted in love, sacrifice and the promise of new life.”
 
Another focus this month is on youth, according to Father John.
 
“Communion begins in the family and is strengthened within the Church,” he said. “Each deanery is encouraged to sponsor a Mini Youth Rally, bringing young people together to form friendships rooted in Faith and shared Catholic life. Supported by their families, our youth discover that Faith is not lived alone, but as part of a loving community that walks together toward Christ.”
 
Recalling St. John Paul II’s words from the XV World Youth Day 25 years ago, Pope Leo XIV reminded young people on Aug. 3, 2025:
 
"Jesus is our hope. Let us remain united to Him, let us remain in His friendship, always, cultivating it through prayer, adoration, Eucharistic communion, frequent confession and generous charity, following the examples of Blessed (now St.) Pier Giorgio Frassati and Blessed (now St.) Carlo Acutis."
 
The diocesan focus for May will be on the Family, according to Father John.
 
“Marriage and family naturally flow from the communion first nurtured in youth,” he said. “Each deanery and parish is encouraged to host a bilingual retreat for couples, offering the opportunity to renew marriage vows. The retreat may be offered on a Saturday from 1:00pm to 5:00pm and conclude with Holy Mass and a shared meal.
 
“Pope Leo XIV reminded us in Rome last year that today's world needs the marriage covenant in order to know and accept God's love and to defeat, thanks to its unifying and reconciling power, the forces that break down relationships and societies.
 
“In this Centennial Year, faith nurtured in youth is lived fully through marriage, uniting families and communities in Christ’s love.”