A high school senior from Downey, California, will have the unique opportunity to ask questions of Pope Leo XIV during a groundbreaking digital event at the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) on November 21, 2023. Ezequiel Ponce, 17, who is a student at Downey High School and a member of St. Dominic Savio Church in Bellflower, is among a select group of teenagers chosen for this historic live Q&A.
This year’s NCYC will take place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, where Pope Leo XIV will connect with over 15,000 young attendees aged 14 to 18. This event marks the first time a pope will interact directly with U.S. youth through a live online platform, a significant shift from previous years when Pope Francis communicated via pre-recorded video messages. The conference aims to foster a vibrant community of faith, bringing together Catholic youth, ministry leaders, and volunteers for three days of prayer and celebration.
“I was absolutely ecstatic,” Ponce expressed after learning about his selection for the Q&A. He recalled the moment he received the email while in class, saying, “My jaw drops. It’s the only thing I could think about.” His parents have also shared in his excitement.
The idea for Ponce’s involvement arose when JC Montenegro, the youth ministry coordinator at St. Dominic Savio, was asked to recommend a teen to help frame questions for the pope. Montenegro praised Ponce’s leadership qualities, stating, “Even at a young age, he’s a leader… someone who is committed.”
Active in youth ministry, Ponce has taken on various roles, including serving as head counselor at the church’s summer camp, “Camp Savio.” His experiences have influenced his aspirations, leading him to consider a career in education as a math teacher. Currently, he is involved in a program that allows him to teach at a local middle school.
Leading up to the event, Ponce has participated in virtual discussions with approximately 40 other teens from across the United States. These meetings focused on identifying pertinent issues affecting young people and preparing questions for the pope. NCYC organizers ultimately selected five speakers and three alternates, aiming for diversity in representation. Alongside Ponce, the other selected teens include Mia Smothers from Maryland, Elise Wing from Iowa, Christopher Pantelakis from Nevada, and Micah Alciso from Hawaii.
As the event approaches, Ponce feels encouraged by Pope Leo’s commitment to engaging with youth. He remarked, “I honestly have been amazed at how much the pope genuinely wants to engage in dialogue.” He believes it is important for younger generations to feel acknowledged, especially in a world where technology often creates barriers between age groups.
The NCYC, renowned for its ability to inspire and empower Catholic youth, promises a transformative experience with Pope Leo’s participation. This live interaction is expected to enhance the conference’s focus on community, faith, and personal growth, making it a pivotal moment for many young attendees.
