SEATTLE – Annie Bailey has been named director of young adult ministry for the Archdiocese of Seattle, responsible for outreach to people ages 18–39 throughout Western Washington.

“This is a critical role for our archdiocese because we want to continue welcoming young adults and help them stay engaged with their faith,” Archbishop Etienne said in an October 7 news release announcing Bailey’s appointment.

From campus ministry to parish life, young adult ministry helps young people develop a personal relationship with Jesus. It offers opportunities for prayer, formation, service and fellowship that help young adults deepen, share and live their Catholic faith. The ministry also supports and forms young adult leaders to engage in ministries at their parishes.

“I am truly humbled by this opportunity and look forward to continuing to serve the church in my new role,” Bailey said in the news release.

She has worked for the archdiocese for six years as coordinator for the Office of Pastoral Ministries. She also has 15 years of experience in young adult ministry as part of young adult groups in Mexico, Germany, France and the U.S.

“Annie Bailey brings strong organizational skills, knowledge of archdiocesan ministries and a passion for young adult ministry,” Archbishop Etienne said. “As a native Spanish speaker, Annie also brings exceptional intercultural competency, which is important for us to reach young adults in our growing multicultural Catholic population.”

Bailey has undergraduate degrees international studies and foreign languages from Benedictine College and is pursuing a master’s in church management from Villanova University. She and her family are active members of St. Louise de Marillac Parish in Bellevue. 

During her first year in her new role, Bailey said she will continue “the wonderful work, relationships, and initiatives established in the past few years.” She also plans to find new ways to attract and engage young adults “who come to the archdiocese from all over the country and the world.”

Bailey will continue extending the reach of young adult ministry and evangelization through the social media presence of Western Washington Catholic Young Adults on Facebook and Instagram, as well as through The Scroll newsletter. She will also continue serving young adult initiatives such as: Theology on Tap, virtual young adult retreats, women’s discernment groups, La Red de Pastoral Juvenil Hispana and campus ministry efforts, including the newly established Eastside Newman.

“We’re so blessed to have Annie in this position,” Archbishop Etienne said. “I ask that everyone prays for her and her efforts to engage young adults in our archdiocese.”