Catholic young adults enjoy community life at St. Elizabeth House in Santa Barbara, California. From ‘Friendsgiving’ to meal prep, fellowship is key. And so is prayer and the Blessed Sacrament — the convent-turned-residence has a chapel. ‘St. Elizabeth House is a center for evangelization,’ according to Bishop Robert Barron.

Santa Barbara, California, initiative shows one way the Church can continue the mission of empty convents and rectories by transforming them into housing for those serving in the local Church’s parishes and apostolates.