The mission of Youth Ministry, as guided by “Renewing the Vision,” has three goals:
How we will accomplish these goals:
Reach – Evangelization. Incorporating outreach; proclaiming the Good News of Jesus through witness and word; invitation, conversion and discipleship. Making Christ present to all youth through Mass; adoration, the sacraments, prayer, retreats, and archdiocese events. Promoting faith development by focusing on the developmental needs and life experiences of adolescents.
Connect- Fellowship
Giving the youth an avenue to socialize with other Catholic youths in a safe and non-judgmental environment. “The ministry of community life builds an environment of love, support, appreciation for diversity and judicious acceptance that models Catholic principles; develops meaningful relationships; and nurtures Catholic faith.” (RTV, p 34) Giving opportunities to gather in large groups, small groups, intergenerational groups, ongoing parish activities and celebrations.
Grow- Discipleship
Enabling young people to live as disciples through their involvement in service, ministry and leadership. Providing young people the faith skills for discipleship. Calling forth, affirming and empowering the diverse gifts, talents and abilities of adults and young people in our faith communities. Developing leadership skills by providing opportunities for young people to develop and share their gifts with the wider community.
Discover – Ministry
Draw young people to participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic faith community. It is our goal to be a “youth friendly” community that welcomes young people, values their participation and calls forth their gifts. Integrating young people into the liturgical, pastoral and ministerial life of the parish community. Creating opportunities for young people to enter into healthy relationships of trust and respect with their peers and with adults. Promoting Catholic identify and religious literacy through programs of adolescent catechesis.
Honor – Worship
“The ministry of prayer and worship celebrates and deepens young people’s relationship with Jesus Christ through bestowal of grace, communal and liturgical experiences; it awakens their awareness o f the spirit at work in their lives, it incorporates young people more fully in the sacramental life of the Church, especially Eucharist; it nurtures the personal prayer life of young people, and it fosters family rituals and prayer.” (RTV, p44)
The youth group members plan and participate in our Youth Masses, youth adoration, youth retreats and youth conferences.
Renewing the Vision:a Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry .