Educational Congress at the Anaheim Convention Center

Thanks to Tasha, Michael and I got to participate in the youth mass at the annual educational congress at the Anaheim Convention Center. Tasha was at a planning meeting and they were looking for volunteers to be a part of the mass intentions. They wanted specific people (i.e. newly graduated, newly married, new parents, etc.). Tasha thought we'd be perfect for the new parents and/or the newly married so she put our names down. Thank goodness she did because it was such a great experience for us!!!

The Educational Congress happens every year and is a time when Catholics can come together and learn about various topics through vibrant speakers and presentations. There is a huge youth mass in the arena of the convention center. Coincidentally, Monsignor Kevin has chosen as the celebrant for the arena mass so it was perfect that we would also be able to support him and be a part of the mass. The Jacob and Matthew Band were also there providing the music.

Because it was such an elaborate mass, we had to show up at 11:30 am to do a run through. Since the mass wasn't until 5:30, Mike and I had some time to kill. We decided to go to a movie -- a rarity since Zoe was born. While we were at the movies, I really felt like I was ditching class or something. I was the first time I had left Zoe to do something fun and unecessary =). Although I felt like I was breaking the rules, it was nice to get away and spend some time with Michael. We watched "Limitless" and really enjoyed ourselves. We even had time afterwards to shop at the enormous vendor mall back at the convention center. We got Zoe her first Bible =) ...

The mass itself was amazing! Monsignor Kevin spoke about St. Joseph and the youth. It was a great homily and we were sooooo proud of him! Our part was right after his homily and also created an impact with the audience. It was touching to hear the intentions done that way. It really made it more personal. When I read my intentions, I really felt connected to all new moms and dads and it was so nice to be able to pray together. Here's what I had to say:

"I constantly second guess. I worry and am filled with anxiety. Am I doing everything I’m supposed to? I hope and pray that he will be happy and healthy. I am a new parent.
For all new mothers and fathers. For gentleness and consideration, courage and energy, imagination and joy. For all the elements young parents need to build a family filled with love and faith, Lord hear our prayer…"

This is what Mike had to say as a "newlywed":

"I am in a time of adjustment. I am learning likes and dislikes, habits and routines. How long is forever? Will we beat the statistics? I grow in love daily. I am a newlywed.
For all newly married couples. For patience and kindness, humility and selflessness, tenderness and compassion. For all that goes into starting a new life as a couple who give fully of themselves, Lord hear our prayer…"

Even though it was a little nerve wrecking to be in front of all those people and to have our faces on the big screen, Michael and I felt so blessed to be able to participate in something like that. Again, thank you Tasha!!!

After the mass, Mike and I had our FIRST OFFICIAL double date with Jay and Mao. We had been waiting a long time to be able to double date with Jay and we were so excited the time was finally here =). We ate at Slater's 50/50 -- which is a restuarant that was featured on the Food Network. Their burgers were made of 50% ground beef and 50% ground bacon. Can't go wrong there, right?! We also had the best spinach artichoke dip and a maple bacon milkshake. Everything was soooo yummy and I was so glad I finally had the chance to take to Monica and get to know her better.

All in all, it was such a great day!!! We did a little bit of everything -- we got our church on, we watched a great movie and we got to eat at a great place with the best people!!!