Thousands Attend Red Dedication 250 in Washington

On Sunday, the National Mall was filled with thousands of Christians for Red Dedication 250, a chance to come together in prayer and worship ahead of the nation’s 550th anniversary.

Among the crowd were 22-year-old Anthony Gross and 26-year-old Kate DePetro, who have witnessed a revival of faith, even in secular areas, particularly among younger Americans.

Gen Z has often been labeled the “anxious generation,” so it makes sense that many are turning to Christianity. Gross and DePetro found themselves at the heart of this movement, having participated in the widely shared ‘Pizza to Pews’ gatherings in New York City. These events started as casual meals for young Catholics before Mass in Manhattan.

“It felt really genuine,” DePetro recalled. “Anthony and I both went to St. Joseph’s Church in New York, and I would often attend services alone. One day, he came over and asked to join me, which opened up new connections.”

“We realized there might be others who feel isolated in church—like they want to come back to their faith but don’t know how. So we decided to host a pizza party for our church and shared it on social media. The response was fantastic,” she added.

This social gathering quickly evolved into a phenomenon, drawing in hundreds of regular participants and fostering new friendships. The community Gross and DePetro nurtured has expanded, inspiring similar connections among Christians across the nation.

Gross, a Midwest native, remembered arriving at the church just in time for the service. He noted that in New York, arriving at least 10 minutes early is necessary, especially in such a busy city.

“Every time I attend Mass, I think, ‘Wow, I’ve never seen so many people in their 20s here,’” Gross shared. “New York City is bustling, and it honestly surprised me.”

DePetro added, “It’s incredible to see young people walking in groups down Sixth Avenue to Mass. Some bystanders would ask, ‘What parade is this?’ We’d respond, ‘We’re heading to church.’ Seeing that camaraderie in downtown Manhattan is something special.”

As DePetro surveyed the crowd at Rededication 250, she observed a “ripple effect” stemming from events like those in New York. People of various ages mingled, yet she noticed many young faces, including those of Gross and DePetro.

With more young Americans embracing faith in Christ, it’s evident that the Catholic Church is experiencing an increase in Gen Z believers and converts.

Gross mentioned, “We’re all searching for something—purpose, meaning, belonging. Turning back to God is one of the purest ways to find that. The structure and tradition of the Catholic Church seem very appealing.”

“I sense real momentum among our generation right now. If we can turn back to God, that would be amazing,” DePetro remarked.