Every year the diocesan Office of Black Catholic Ministry holds a retreat for youth called Kujenga. Five principles are highlighted in relationship to the youth and the Church: nia (purpose), umoja (unity), kujichagulia (self-determination), ujima (work and responsibility), and ujamaa (cooperative economics). The youth gathered at a Springville camp to discuss their faith and how they can take that faith to their community. During the course of their time together, the youth make posters highlighting one of the five principles, listen to presentations about career development, go on a nature walk, encounter animals from Homewood’s Ed’s Pet World, enjoy a ride on a zip line, go to confession, attend Mass, hear a testimonial, and create a painting. 

One participant, Zania Wilson of St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Bessemer, marked her fifth retreat this year. Of her experience, she noted, “Kujenga has helped me with my faith and my future and helped me become the person I am today. … I look forward to the time for me to step up and be one of the leaders.”