The Jesus Walkeez mime group performs a mime during the Nor Cal rally, Oct. 16, at Six Flags. PATTI COLLYER PHOTO

By Patti Collyer
Special to The Voice

A day challenging teens to “Get the fire” of the Holy Spirit — On Fire Nor Cal Jam — drew 3,400 young people from nine Northern California dioceses to Six Flags Discovery Kingdom in Vallejo Oct. 16, where they celebrated their Catholic faith, heard nationally known speakers, enjoyed the rides and animal exhibits, and were inspired by the music of three nationally known Christian bands — Matt Maher, Tenth Avenue North and Addison Road.

A Mass concelebrated by Bishops Jaime Soto of Sacramento, Daniel Walsh of Santa Rosa, Patrick McGrath of San Jose, Stephen Blaire of Stockton and about 25 priests was a highlight of the morning events at the first Northern California Youth Day, a collaborative effort of the nine dioceses.

Sarah Hart, a nationally known Christian singer, offered an hour of prayer for 150 youth leaders, chaperones and parents. A Vocations Carnival, sponsored by many of the diocesan vocations offices, included games and a raffle.

(Patti Collyer is coordinator of youth and young adult ministry for the Oakland Diocese and former director of youth ministry at St. Bonaventure Parish in Concord.)

During his homily Father Jayson Landeza, chaplain for the Oakland Fire Dept. and parochial vicar at St. Felicitas Parish in San Leandro, challenges the teens to “Stop, Drop and Pray” when they are faced with life’s tough challenges and decisions. PHOTO COURTESY OF FATHER JAYSON LANDEZA
	ABOVE: Matt Maher performs during one of the concert sets.   LEFT: Sacramento Bishop Jaime Soto plays the harmonica during a jam with the Matt Maher Band. PATTI COLLYER PHOTOs
With the backdrop of a picturesque Six Flags lake, Bishop Jaime Soto concelebrates Mass with, from left, Bishop Stephen Blair, Bishop Patrick McGrath and Bishop Daniel Walsh as well as priests from several northern California dioceses. PATTI COLLYER PHOTO

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