I often hear people complain about younger generations. There’s always someone quick to point out how younger generations “lack a work ethic,” “destroy the culture with their screens,” are “selfish,” or whatever criticism is convenient.

I’m pretty sure that idea is bunk, or perhaps an examination of one person making a generalization about a whole generation. The same complaints have likely been around for millennia.

People can interpret studies and surveys in an attempt to prove their point. They can see a bunch of media with pundits and critics and other naysayers repeating the same opinions and confirming the bias. But do how well do we really know people of younger generations?

We probably know our kids’ friends and our friends’ kids, some nieces and nephews. We might work with a handful of people half our age. I bet most of them are pretty good people.

In this issue, we tell Caleb Camp’s story. He’s a young adult, 23, spreading positive vibes on instagram (@j._stewart) and at his parish, St. Alphonsus Liguori “Rock” Church. He works for Better Family Life guiding young people.

He told writer Jennifer Brinker, “if I can brighten somebody’s day, put a smile on somebody’s face and give them the courage and motivation to keep going each day … and be the best version of yourself, that’s really what matters.”

Also in this issue is a story on the Office of Youth Ministry, which serves youth ministers, priests, parents and scout leaders who help youth develop a relationship with Jesus.

St. Anselm youth minister Courtney Rockamann said that “the world tells (young people) they need to be a lot of things, do a lot of things and wear a lot of things. I get to remind them constantly of their value. The battle’s already won. They are already loved as they are. I walk with them as they try and live that. Obviously that’s not easy in today’s world.”

Both stories reveal the truth that our young generation deserves encouragement and support in their formation, just as they have for millennia.