Jesus Youth Mission | Kentucky, US
February 2025
Jesus Youth Mission Continues to Bring Hope to Harlan County, Kentucky
The Jesus Youth Mission team first set foot in Kentucky in 2019, but it was in the years following COVID that their presence became a consistent and growing mission. With the blessing of Bishop John Stowe of the Diocese of Lexington, the team has been serving three parishes in Harlan County, where Fr. Terrence De Silva has warmly welcomed and supported their efforts. Through weekend missions and extended mission trips, these visits have not only deepened relationships but also brought faith, hope, and renewal to the local community.
A Region in Need of Healing and Renewal
Once a thriving center of coal mining, Harlan County has endured years of economic decline, making it one of the poorest regions in the U.S. With nearly two-thirds of its population having migrated, those who remain face deep financial struggles, addiction, violence, and fractured family structures — leaving many children in foster care. Recognizing these hardships, prayer has become the heartbeat of every mission trip. Missionaries dedicate time to Eucharistic Adoration, lifting up the people and the region in intercession, trusting in God’s grace to bring healing and renewal.
From Humble Beginnings to a Growing Mission
The mission began with families from nearby areas coming to Harlan, bringing not just their presence but their prayers and hearts for service. Volunteers extended a helping hand at a local food pantry, supported parish outreach programmes, and built genuine friendships with families facing hardships. Through shared meals and heartfelt prayer gatherings, they nurtured a sense of trust and belonging within the community. Other meaningful initiatives include assisting Fr. Terrence with First Communion and Confirmation programmes, spreading Christmas joy through caroling, and organizing fellowship meals — each act of love reflecting Christ’s compassion and hope
Expanding Outreach with Young Adults and Families
As the mission grew, young adults and teens began embarking on extended journeys of 7-10 days, embracing a deeper call to serve. College students dedicate their spring break to mission work, while families come together during Holy Week, immersing themselves in prayer, liturgies, and acts of service. Activities range from visiting families, hosting preschool programs, and leading confirmation retreats to organizing fellowship dinners and service projects.
With each visit, the Jesus Youth mission in Kentucky grows stronger, bringing renewed faith, hope, and love to the people of Harlan County. As the mission expands, so do the bonds of friendship and trust, transforming lives and igniting hearts with the fire of Christ’s love. With every journey, the presence of God is made ever more tangible, leaving a lasting impact on both the missionaries and the community they serve.
May the Lord bless this mission and all those it serves! Please get the photos here : http://youtube.com/post/UgkxTVc3-_D_0woFyBzsHF8QAONCecj_idkK?si=lVXxXVh6pcg9tav-
