Catholic Diocese of Biloxi  

The Diocese of Biloxi Youth Conference (DBYC) began in 1977 with a simple goal: to foster community among young people across the entire diocese. Many teens encounter, often for the first time, peers from other parishes who share the same excitement and commitment to their Catholic faith. Over the years, DBYC has grown into a cornerstone event, inviting young people to step beyond their own parish communities and experience the broader life of the Church. For more than a decade, the conference has been planned and led in part by the Diocesan Spirit Movers, a peer ministry team of 10th–12th graders, who also help guide the middle school rally for 6th–8th grade students that follows.

DBYC brings together parish youth groups of high school students (9th–12th grade) from across the diocese for a retreat-style weekend centered on an overarching theme. Through keynote sessions, worship, the Sacraments, and more; teens are guided step by step through the theme in a way that mirrors larger Catholic conferences.   Throughout the weekend, large-group gatherings are balanced with breakout sessions, small-group discussions after most talks to reflect and process what was shared, and fun, high-energy moments that help build community and keep the experience engaging and meaningful.

The weekend begins Friday night as youth groups arrive, check in, and set up creative parish banners and displays, creating DBYC's energetic atmosphere.   The evening begins with time for fellowship and connection with other teens from across the diocese; followed by an introduction of our speaker for the weekend. Over the years, DBYC has welcomed nationally recognized Catholic speakers from across the country.

On Saturday along with the continued sessions of the weekend, teens can explore Mission Way, a unique opportunity for our teens to meet the diocesan vocations director, seminarians, religious sisters, college students, and others living out different paths within the Church.  For our juniors and seniors, we invite leaders and Diocese of Biloxi alumni that are involved in college Catholic programs to be present and share their experiences with our youth.  Colleges from Mississippi, Alabama, Louisiana, and even Ohio have joined us!  It's a way for our teens to build connections and start discerning their future.

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