The Archdiocese of Vancouver Youth Ministry recognizes this year’s Leadership Bursary winners, Janel Margaret Cruz and Betty Lim, two high school students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership and service in their parishes, schools, communities, and homes.
Each has been awarded $500 to support their post-secondary education. Congratulations to our bursary winners for their remarkable contributions and commitment to making a difference!
Janel Margaret Cruz
- School: Holy Cross Regional High School, Surrey
- Parish: St. Matthew’s Parish, Surrey
- Entering: Science, Corpus Christi College
When I found out I had won the Youth Ministry Leadership Bursary, the news hit me with a wave of emotion – sheer excitement and deep gratitude, yes, but honestly, also genuine shock. I was truly overwhelmed. Hearing this news, I immediately went out and thanked all those who helped me, for I couldn’t have achieved this on my own. To think that my small, daily efforts, the things I pour my heart into because I believe in them, were seen and recognized in such a significant way felt absolutely amazing. It was never about seeking recognition, but having the Archdiocese affirm this path of faith-filled leadership was incredibly moving. It tells me that investing in my parish, my school, and my community, trying to live out my faith authentically, truly matters. I am so profoundly grateful for this bursary. More than just financial support, it's a powerful encouragement that strengthens a confirmation that saying "yes" to serving Christ and His people is seen and valued. It ignites an even greater fire within me to continue leading and serving with all my heart as I step forward into post-secondary education.
Youth ministry, at both the archdiocesan and parish levels, is vital for the vibrant future of the Church. The youth are the future, and I believe in empowering them into members of the community that Christ means for us. Youth ministry provides a space for young people to encounter Christ, deepen their understanding of their faith, and build meaningful relationships with peers and mentors who share their values. Parish youth ministry offers a local community where faith can be lived out in tangible ways, fostering a sense of belonging and providing opportunities for service and leadership development. Archdiocesan youth ministry complements this by connecting young people across different parishes, offering broader experiences like retreats and events that showcase the larger Church community and inspire a wider vision of faith and service. Together, they form young disciples, empower future leaders, and ensure that the Church remains alive and relevant for generations to come, helping youth navigate the complexities of the modern world through the unchanging truth of Christ's love.
Betty Lim
- School: Archbishop Carney Regional Secondary School, Port Coquitlam
- Parish: All Saints Parish, Coquitlam
- Entering: Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University
When I found out I had won the Youth Ministry Leadership Bursary, I was filled with immense gratitude and joy. It felt greatly affirming to know that the fruits of the time and effort I’ve dedicated to serving my parish and community had been recognized. I’ve come to see my volunteer work as a calling to help others grow in their faith, just as I’ve grown in mine. Receiving this bursary reminded me that even small acts of service can have a meaningful impact and that the Church truly values young leaders who are passionate about building community and spreading the word of God.
I believe that youth ministry is important for the church because they are nurturing the next generation of Catholics and the future of Catholicism. Through both archdiocesan and parish youth ministries, the Church provides a supportive and welcoming space for young Catholics to encounter Christ and grow in their faith. It gives young people the opportunity to create and build relationships with others who share their values, especially in a world where this support and friendships are most needed. Youth ministry can also offer guidance during some of the most important years of a person's life and help youth feel seen, heard and valued. They also cultivate potential leaders of faith. Through Youth ministry, the Church can ensure that its mission will continue to thrive with hope for generations to come.