By Avery Porch
Diocesan Young Adult Coordinator

On November 20, at the Urban Glow Candle Co. in downtown Rapid City, 18 young women gathered to pour candles, cultivate community, and listen to Emily Priolo, Cathedral of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, OCIA Director, give a talk on liturgical living. The women came from Rapid City, Spearfish, Sturgis, and Hill City, to the event.

Each participant made a custom candle, choosing from a variety of vessels and seasonal scents. As the candles cooled, Priolo gave an overview of the Catholic Church’s liturgical calendar, discussed the importance of order and structure, and offered practical ways that they can celebrate the Church’s many feasts. She emphasized the importance of celebrating with friends and family, pointing out that the word “liturgical,” originating from the Greek word leitourgia, means “work of the people.”

Attendees left the event ready to celebrate the Advent season. “The women’s night was such a fun evening,” said Bailee Robbins from Cathedral Parish. “I got to enjoy community with other young women, good food, candle making, and a great talk! What more could I ask for?”

Sodalitas Women’s Nights will be offered quarterly, offering young women across the diocese the opportunity to come together for community and formation. The next Women’s Night is scheduled for mid-February. All women ages 20-30 are invited to attend.

(Editor’s note: Sodalitas is the Young Adult Ministry for the Diocese of Rapid City. Latin for “fellowship,” Sodalitas exists to foster authentic community and accompany young adults as they deepen their faith. This ministry serves Catholic men and women ages 20-30, offering weekly studies, formation nights, and a quarterly speaker series. For more information contact Diocesan Young Adult Coordinator Avery Porch at 605-343-3541 or aporch@diorc.org.