Transforming young hearts: Eymi Nava’s mission in her community

A young woman with dark hair in a beige top and white jeans smiling in a park with trees behind her.

“I’ve learned that I can do all things through Christ. I’m a shy person and sometimes doubt myself, but the Lord always assures me that he placed me here for a reason.”

-Eymi Nava

At St. Catherine of Siena Catholic Parish, Eymi Nava serves faithfully as the young adult ministry coordinator, guiding others in their walk with God just as she was once guided herself. Her journey of discipleship began years ago when, as a twelve-year-old, she joined a youth group that deeply shaped her faith.  

“It helped me get to know the Lord,” she recalled. “The young people around me supported me so much, and now I want to do the same for others.” 

That early experience planted a seed of compassion and purpose. Today, Nava feels called to accompany young adults who often struggle to see their worth in God’s eyes.  

“Youth are so attacked by society,” Nava said. “They’re judged and sometimes feel unworthy of God’s love. My mission is to share that love with them.” 

Her faith has been a steady source of strength, especially in moments of challenge.   

“My faith gives me hope, knowing that God is always in control,” she explained.  

That trust has carried Nava through the ups and downs of ministry and inspires her to keep going when things get difficult. 

When one of her parish priests recognized the need for a young adult group, he invited her to help build it from the ground up. She said yes without hesitation, trusting that God had a plan. 

“What motivates me is seeing the transformation in young people — how they grow and open up after joining the group,” she shared.  

Over time, Nava has watched more and more young adults get involved in parish life, offering their gifts and deepening their relationship with the Lord.  

“The youth are more motivated now to serve and to grow personally in their faith,” Nava said with pride.  

One moment that stands out to her came when a young woman she had mentored began guiding another newcomer in her faith journey.  

 “She started walking with a new member and shared her own testimony to evangelize. I felt so proud of her growth and that step she took,” she said.   

For her, that moment captured the heart of discipleship — multiplying love through personal witness.  

Her leadership has also been strengthened through Catholic Christian Outreach (CCO) Faith Studies, which she now takes and shares with others. The program has provided her with a sense of companionship and has taught her the value of intentional accompaniment within parish communities.  

 “It’s helped me understand where young people are in their faith journey,” she said. “When you know that, you can better support them.” 

 Through her service, Nava has discovered not only the joy of guiding others but also a deeper understanding of herself and her relationship with God.  

“I’ve learned that I can do all things through Christ,” she said. “I’m a shy person and sometimes doubt myself, but the Lord always assures me that he placed me here for a reason.” 

Above all, she is grateful to God and to those who have supported her along the way.  

 “Thank you to my parents, my brother, and my husband for instilling faith in my life and for always encouraging me,” she shared. 

 Her witness reminds us that discipleship is not about perfection or confidence — it’s about saying yes to God’s call and allowing his love to transform both us and those we serve. 

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