Some of the core team members are pictured after a pupusa/coffee sale to raise funds for their pilgrimage in 2025. The group has been fundraising for several months with major support from their pastor Father Arnold Parungao (pictured in all white) and other ministries in the parish. Photo courtesy of Agua Viva

WEST SACRAMENTO, CA (MPG) - According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a significant increase in certain mental health disorders in American youth has been observed in recent years. In West Sacramento, a local group of young adults are combatting this increase by being “pilgrims of hope” to youth in the community.

Agua Viva (meaning “living waters” in Spanish) was founded in early 2024 by Holy Cross Parish youth with the mission of bringing life-giving encouragement to their peers. Agua Viva hosts events for young adults to find camaraderie and welcome those between the ages of 18 and 39 to join. Eventually, members plan to run a separate ministry for teenagers.

“Their efforts, which includes community service, have been met with open arms, especially among parents of adolescent or adult children,” said Montse De La Garma, one of the Agua Viva founders at Holy Cross Parish.

Now, Agua Viva members look to embark on a once-in-a-lifetime spiritual journey as young pilgrims to the Vatican during the Jubilee 2025, a Christian tradition that dates to 1300. The group anticipates making the pilgrimage sometime in October. Currently, the exact date of departure depends on if enough funds are collected.

The St. Patrick's Dinner has been a neighborhood tradition that draws residents of all for a wholesome evening of community and celebration. Photo courtesy of Agua Viva 

“This is a rare opportunity to step beyond West Sacramento and witness firsthand the rich history of the Christian faith and the heart of Catholicism in the Eternal City,” De La Garma said.

The Jubilee, known as a “Holy Year” is celebrated every 25 years (initially every 100 or 50 years), when the Bishop of Rome invites Catholics worldwide to make a pilgrimage to the Basilicas of Saint Peter and Saint Paul.

“We’re grateful for everyone’s support so far and trust God’s guidance as we move forward,” said Diego Magallanes, 22, who has served as a lead coordinator since the group’s founding.

To cover expenses, the Agua Viva members are hosting a St. Patrick’s Day dinner from 5 to 9 p.m. March 15, which also includes a raffle and lively dancing music. This is an annual event but it will be the group’s first time hosting the dinner and festivities. The dinner was previously a crab feed hosted by the Knights of Columbus, a well-known Catholic service organization in the community.

The hearty meal on March 15 includes Irish soup, bread, dessert, two drinks (alcoholic or soft drink) and spaghetti with meatballs for $25. A takeout option will also be available.

Tickets are on sale at the parish office and at the door. The event is at Holy Cross Parish’s gymnasium, 1321 Anna St. in West Sacramento.

Donations are being accepted at gofundme.com/f/k73ya-agua-viva for those unable to attend the event. For more information about the group, go to Agua Viva’s Instagram page under @aguaviva.ca or call 916-693-8254.