Connecting Catholic Young Adults in Central Texas

"The Diocese of Austin must make it a priority to minister to the needs of our young adults in our parishes and in our campus ministry. Our young people hunger for an encounter with God, and our ministries should provide opportunities and experiences for these encounters."

-Most Reverend Joe Vásquez

Looking to connect with other young adults who share your faith?

At Central Texas Catholic, an initiative of the Office of Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Austin, we’re here to help you find your place among fellow young Catholics (ages 23-39). Whether you’re in a season of discernment, building a new relationship, or raising a young family, we offer opportunities to grow in faith and community alongside others in similar stages of life. From building new friendships and serving your community to attending faith-based events, you’ve come to the right place. Dive in and discover ways to make a difference while deepening your Catholic faith!

Find Your Region

Click on the map below to be redirected to the region page where you can discover what’s happening for young adults in your area!

Bryan/College-STATION WACO HILL COUNTRY BELL COUNTY AUSTIN SOUTHEAST SANMARCOS 35 35 35 Killeen Temple Dripping Springs Buda Kyle Bastrop Brenham Mason Llano

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Stay connected with Central Texas Catholic by joining our newsletter! Get the latest updates on upcoming events, ministry opportunities, and ways to get involved with other young adults across Central Texas. Sign up today to stay informed and deepen your faith alongside a vibrant Catholic community!

Meet your Diocese of Austin young adult representatives

Elizabeth Mcalonan

Young Adult Outreach Associate,

Diocese of Austin

Elizabeth is a native Austinite and grew up attending St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church in North Austin. She has worked in ministry for over 10 years and is thrilled to serve the young adults of this Diocese. Elizabeth is passionate about helping young adults encounter Christ and build community with each other.

Find me at St. Vincent de Paul Catholic Church
elizabeth-mcalonan@austindiocese.org
Fr. Chris Smith

Young Adult Chaplain, Diocese of Austin

Sacred Heart Catholic Church, La Grange

Fr. Chris grew up in College Station, TX and was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Austin in 2020. He served with NET ministries for 3 years after graduating from Texas A&M and he accompanies FOCUS missionaries throughout the year in different ways. Fr Chris is very excited to serve the young adults of Central Texas! He currently serves as the administrator of Sacred Heart parish in La Grange.

Come say hello at Sacred Heart Catholic Church
fr-chris-smith@austindiocese.org

Events and Happenings In the Diocese

Sunday-Sunday
May 4-
Jun 15

Ascend

Ascend, the Diocese of Austin’s emerging leaders program is an initiative to identify, develop and support young leaders under 40 in the diocese and the communities within its borders. The Ascend class of 2024 will be empowered to make a lasting contribution by practicing applied leadership skills so that they may exercise their faith in positions of leadership in the church as well as in their homes, communities, and careers.

Saturday-Sunday
Jul
12-20

Young Adult Mission Trip to Honduras

Join Fr. Fernando Ricaud (St. Anthony Claret Kyle, Texas) on a mission trip to Honduras. This experience is an opportunity to serve, grow in faith, and engage with those in need. The cost of the trip is $1,500 and includes missionary fees and flights to Honduras and back.

Registration open to young adults 23-39. Please register by May 1.

Friday-Wednesday
Sep
12-24

Jubilee Year Pilgrimage to Poland and Italy

Join Fr. Chris Smith on a pilgrimage to Poland and Italy to celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope. On this 13 day pilgrimage you will travel to: Krakow, Wadowice, Czestochowa, Auschwitz, Turin, Assisi, and Rome. You will be able to visit the sites of saints, attend daily Mass, participate in a river cruise and so much more. Airfare, accommodations, and breakfast and dinner are provided. View informational brochure.

Registration open to young adults 23-39. Please register by May 1.

Looks like there are no events happening at the moment, but don’t worry—new opportunities are always just around the corner!

Check back soon for updates, and in the meantime, feel free to reach out to one of our representatives if you’re looking to get involved. They will be able to guide you on how to take the next step in joining our community and finding the right opportunities for you!

Currently a college student or 18-22 years old?

Check out these ministry opportunities for you around the Diocese:

¿Prefieres el ministerio en español?

Diócesis de Austin Pastoral Juvenil Hispana