Gatherings give Seattle-area young adults a faith-focused social outlet
SEATTLEBy Kim Haub
Walking into “Saturday Night Alive” for the first time, Nick Paradis was drawn in by the dim lighting, candles, music and incense, an atmosphere created especially for the event.
“It was a very prayerful and meditating experience,” the 29-year-old said of the gathering for young adults held at Prince of Peace Catholic Newman Center at the University of Washington.
Like Paradis, a growing number of Seattle-area Catholics ages 18-35 are attracted to the new ministry that offers prayer, fellowship and entertainment. “I like how they tie in the whole Seattle area in one event,” said Paradis, who regularly attends Mass at the Newman Center, staffed by Dominican priests.
At least 120 people attended the first Saturday Night Alive in October, and 135 showed up for November’s gathering, said Peter Montine, one of the event’s volunteer organizers. To accommodate the crowd, Saturday Night Alive is moving to nearby Blessed Sacrament Church and parish hall. (The Newman Center is a ministry of Blessed Sacrament.)
The idea for Saturday Night Alive came from Dominican Father Lukasz Misko, the Newman Center’s associate director. It’s modeled after Catholic Underground, a ministry of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, which Father Misko experienced while chaplain at New York’s Columbia University.
“When I moved to Seattle [in August 2012], I realized this format would be a perfect way to help people in their 20s and 30s to grow in their faith and friendships,” Father Misko said.
Each gathering — held the third Saturday of the month — begins with a Holy Hour and adoration that is designed for young adults. Priests are available to hear confessions. After evening prayer and Benediction, it’s time for socializing and entertainment, where local Catholic musical and visual artists add a cultural aspect to the night.
Thomas Kloucek, 25, enjoyed the music at a recent Saturday Night Alive. “Once it started, I became incredibly relaxed. I was completely in the moment,” said Kloucek, a member of Christ Our Hope Parish in downtown Seattle. “It could have lasted forever, and I wouldn’t have noticed.” He plans to return for the meditative environment and the lively social gathering that follows.
The connection of faith, culture and friendship sets Saturday Night Alive apart from other social options for young adults. “We live in sort of an isolated existence as young Catholics, so it is important to connect with like-minded people,” Paradis said. “Events like this are very helpful.”
Faith, friendship and culture Catholics ages 18-35 are invited to Saturday Night Alive, held the third Saturday of each month. The next gathering will be held 7 p.m. Jan. 18 at Blessed Sacrament Church and hall, 5050 Eighth Ave. N.E., Seattle. The event includes a Holy Hour, time for socializing and performances by Catholic artists. Musical and visual artists interested in participating can contact Father Lukasz Misko at 206-527-5072. For more details, visit www.uwnewman.org.
January 14, 2014