AGNES: Nine Years of Music, Faith, and Hearts Returning to Jesus
Dear St. Agnes Family,
Some of God’s most beautiful works begin with a simple yes.
On October 16, 2017, six young women, ages 13 to 25, came together with a dream: to lead others closer to Jesus through music. Worship had touched their own lives, and they wanted to share that gift.
They faced real questions. Would a parish welcome them? Could they stay committed through college and changing schedules? Would others join them? Trusting in God, they began gathering the community for weekly worship in February 2018.
From Key Biscayne to the World
Today, Agnes includes approximately 30 dedicated members, while groups in Boston and Córdoba, Argentina, share its name and mission. With the support of generous benefactors, they have composed about 30 songs, recorded 25, and released three albums.
In 2019, “Eres” (“You Are”) was chosen as the theme song for the Youth Festival in Medjugorje. Agnes sang and shared its testimony before more than 70,000 people. The song has since been translated into several languages and continues to accompany prayer there.
In 2025, “Ven a Mí” (“Come to Me”), from the album Juntos a Adorar (“Together in Worship”), received a Catholic Music Award. That year, Agnes released its third album, Sígueme (“Follow Me”). Over the past two years, their music has reached more than 325,000 active listeners across digital platforms in many countries.
Where the Real Miracle Happens
I rejoice in these milestones, but as pastor, what moves me most cannot be counted in streams or awards.
Every Monday evening, approximately 500 people gather at St. Agnes for an hour of Eucharistic Adoration. The Blessed Sacrament is exposed on the altar, and our parish priests hear confessions while the community prays. People travel from across South Florida, bringing their gratitude, worries, wounds, and hopes before the Lord.
I have witnessed people receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation after 20, 30, or more years away. Some rediscover the joy of receiving the Eucharist. Others find the courage to begin again. A song may have drawn them through the doors, but it is Jesus who welcomes them home.
A Mission Worth Celebrating
As voices rise and guitar strings vibrate, I imagine the hearts gathered before the altar: some singing, others kneeling quietly, still others moved to tears. Music creates space for prayer; the Holy Spirit touches lives.
My prayer is that Agnes will always remain humble and faithful to its original purpose. To every young person with a gift to offer, remember: you do not need to know where God will lead you before saying yes.
May every rehearsal remain a prayer, every song an invitation, and every gathering an encounter with Christ.
Thank you to Agnes’s members, past and present, their families, and every benefactor who has sustained this mission.
Happy ninth anniversary, Agnes! Thank You, Lord, for the souls You are bringing closer to Your heart.
With my prayers and gratitude,
Fr. jc