A water bottle bearing the Emmaus Days prayer is in the foreground during an outdoor discussion at a 2021 Emmaus Days session. (Provided photo)

Boys and young men from throughout the Diocese of Peoria are invited to take part in Emmaus Days this summer, a vocations awareness program that provides a spiritual and fun environment designed to make them more aware of God’s presence in their lives.

Four sessions, led by seminarians and with involvement from diocesan priests on the theme of “Encounter,” have been scheduled at two sites. The first two sessions take place at St. John’s Catholic Newman Center at the University of Illinois in Champaign.

Session I, from June 10 to 12, is for those who are in college as well as single men in their 20s and 30s who are discerning their vocation. Session II, from June 24 to 27, is for high school juniors and seniors. Participants will deepen their faith and focus on discerning God’s will through prayer and the sacraments.

The remaining two sessions will be hosted by Peoria Notre Dame High School. Session III, from July 17 to 20, is for high school freshmen and sophomores. Session IV, from July 20 to 22, is for seventh- and eighth-graders. Participants will experience prayer, talks and activities like basketball, swimming, soccer, ultimate Frisbee and card games.

Bishop Louis Tylka visits at the end of every session. Further information, including registration forms and fees, can be found at the website of the diocesan Office of Priestly Vocations, comeandfollowme.org.