Crossing into Adulthood

Celebrating 18th Birthdays for 2024

Each year at Hogar Amigos de Jesús, we celebrate our 18-year-olds in one big birthday ceremony and celebration. A few weeks ago, we celebrated all of the young adults who turn 18 in 2024. 

Fr. Dennis O'Donnell came for a short visit to the Hogar and celebrated Mass for the community. He shared an inspirational message with our newest young adults, encouraging them to always run back to their identity as friends of Jesus as they journey through life, especially in the hardest of times.  

After Mass, the ceremonial bridge crossing took place, an Amigos tradition. In this tradition, the adults walk ahead of everyone else and cross the bridge first, leaving the children and 18-year-olds on the other side of the bridge. Then, each of our 18-year-olds cross the bridge with their godparent, symbolizing their transition from childhood to adulthood. Our new young adults are received with applause and congratulations by those on the other side. The festivities continued with a nice dinner, cake and ice cream, pictures, and dancing. 

When young adults turn 18 at Amigos de Jesús, there are many options available for them. While living off-site in an Amigos property in the local village, our young people can gain work experience by participating in the Amigos young adult volunteer program, voluntariado. Those in the Voluntariado Program work in areas such as the kitchen, the metal and wood shops, and the farm. There are also scholarships available for the young adults to attend university, should they choose. Still others decide to chart their own path after turning 18, starting to live and work independently. 

As these young adults move into the next chapters of their lives, wherever it may be, we wish them all the absolute best and they will always remain a part of the Amigos de Jesús family. 

“Do not fear nor be dismayed, for the LORD, your God, is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)

The 2024 Amigos de Jesús Christmas Card

is Available for Order!

Send a special Amigos-style greeting to your friends and family this holiday season. Make a free-will donation in any amount and order this custom Amigos Christmas card for your personal use. We'll ship your cards to you the week of Thanksgiving.

Call or email Karen Caddy with any questions: karen@amigosdejesus.org 610-644-8237