IBARRA: Building Christ-centered friendships in a diverse world

As a 25-year-old youth minister living in a non-Catholic environment, I find that practicing the Catholic faith can be challenging. However, it’s far from impossible, especially when you focus on making friends who share your values. 

Building relationships with like-minded individuals can provide support and encouragement on your journey, helping you stay rooted in your faith while navigating a diverse landscape. While many people get caught up in creating the perfect image for social media or engaging in immoral activity, we as Catholics find our strength and purpose anchored in our relationship with Christ. 

Incorporating saints as friends in our daily lives can be incredibly enriching, especially for adolescents. Saints can serve as relatable role models who faced challenges and remained steadfast in their faith. You can turn to them for guidance during tough times, whether you’re dealing with academic pressure, social dynamics, or cultural and societal pressures. 

Pray to your favorite saints for their intercession, asking for their support and inspiration. Share their stories with friends to foster a sense of community and encourage one another. Their experiences can help you navigate moral dilemmas, reminding you to act with courage, kindness and integrity in your everyday decisions. 

Applying the concept of WWJD (What Would Jesus Do) in daily life encourages thoughtful decision-making and compassionate actions. Before reacting to situations, take a moment to reflect on how Jesus might respond. Practicing empathy, serving others and choosing kindness are key ways to live out this principle.

Additionally, seeking guidance through prayer and standing up for what’s right can help you manifest Jesus’s teachings in your interactions. By incorporating these values into your daily routine, you can positively impact those around you and cultivate a life of integrity and compassion. 

Just like the Apostle Paul wrote to the Philippians while he was in prison, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” This powerful message teaches us that by relying on Christ for strength and guidance, we can accomplish anything, especially when forming Catholic friendships. Paul expressed gratitude to the Philippians for their support and shared insights on finding contentment, regardless of his circumstances.

For youth, in a non-Catholic environment, this verse reminds you that you’re not alone in your struggles. You have access to Christ’s divine strength to help you uphold your values and principles even when it’s tough. With faith, you can navigate challenges and stay true to your Catholic identity, showcasing resilience and purpose in a world that may not fully understand you. 

Parents, grandparents and ministry leaders can help youth to embrace this journey of friendship with fellow Catholics, as it can be a source of support and encouragement in their faith. To find more Christ-like friends, consider encouraging them to participate in local youth groups, prayer meetings, or service projects that resonate with their Catholic beliefs. 

Seek out events where they can connect with others who share their values, and don’t hesitate to initiate conversations about faith or works of service. Engaging in discussions about your experiences and beliefs can help forge deeper connections with your teens, ultimately helping them to find lasting friendships that uplift and inspire them. 

Building friendships while practicing Catholicism in a non-Catholic environment can be challenging, but the rewards are incredibly fulfilling! These relationships not only provide support and companionship, but they also help you grow as a person and deepen your faith. Embracing the journey of friendship allows you to understand your beliefs better and appreciate the diverse perspectives of those around you.

Alejandro Ibarra is a youth minister at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in Baytown.