YOUTH MINISTRY
At St. Mary’s, we believe our young people are not just the future of the Church—they are an essential part of its life today. Their energy, ideas, and gifts bring new life to our parish and help us grow as a community rooted in Christ.
We actively encourage our youth to participate in parish ministries, including altar serving, choir, reading at Mass, service projects, and community events. Through these opportunities, they discover their God-given talents, deepen their faith, and learn what it means to be leaders in the Church.By participating in these ministries, our youth grow not only in leadership but also in faith. They learn that the Church is their home, their responsibility, and their inheritance.
St. Mary’s is committed to walking with our youth, supporting their growth, and giving them a meaningful place in the mission of the Church. Together, we are building a vibrant, hopeful future—one young disciple at a time.
St. Mary's Youth on IG
Meet Our Youth Leaders
These incredible young leaders have dedicated themselves to guiding, inspiring, and uplifting the young people of our parish. With passion and faith, they help shape the minds, hearts, and talents of our youth—encouraging them to grow in discipleship, confidence, and community
Hi! I’m Briana, and I’ve been serving as a Youth Leader here at St.Mary’s since 2022. I love working with our teens and creating a fun, welcoming space where they can grow in their faith and just be themselves.
My background is in Public Health, community work, youth programs, and mental-health education, so I’m all about helping young people feel supported both spiritually and personally. Whether it’s planning events, having honest conversations, or cheering them on through school and life, I’m passionate about being someone they can trust and feel comfortable with.
Outside of church, you’ll usually find me dancing, taking photos, or planning something creative. I’m grateful to be part of this ministry and excited for everything God has ahead for our youth!
Hi! I’m Chidi. I’ve been part of St. Mary’s my whole life; growing up in this parish, moving through our youth group, and eventually stepping into a Youth Leader role in 2022. I studied Psychology and Biomedical Sciences at Rutgers University, and I’m now pursuing my Juris Doctor at New York Law School while working in the Legal Department at the National Football League. When I’m not juggling work, school, or ministry, you’ll probably find me lifting at the gym, checking out a new restaurant, or roaming around the city.
Being able to walk alongside our teens during such defining years is a true blessing. Through conversations, fellowship, and shared experiences, I love watching them grow in confidence, purpose, and faith. I’m excited for all the moments ahead as they continue discovering who they are in Christ.
Hi! I’m Alice, and I’ve been part of St. Mary’s family since 2010, when I moved from Ghana to join my parents here in the U.S.
St. Mary’s has been my home ever since. I graduated from Orange High School, studied Mathematics at Dickinson College, and now work in cost-effectiveness research at Columbia University Irving Medical Center. Beyond youth ministry, you can usually find me ushering at Sunday Mass, exploring different restaurants, or on the tennis court where I’ve been coaching for years, and I love the energy and mentorship that come with working with the youth. As a youth leader, I’m passionate about creating a welcoming, faith-filled space where teens can grow, ask big questions, build community, and deepen their relationship with God. I’m excited to walk alongside them on their journey and help them discover the joy of living out their faith.