Three goals of our Middle School Youth Ministry program:
1. empowering young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today
2. drawing young people to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the faith community
3. fostering the personal and spiritual growth of each young person
To accomplish these goals it will take the people and resources of the entire Church.
“What is needed today is a Church which knows how to respond to the expectations of young people. Jesus wants to enter into dialogue with them and, through his body which is the Church, to propose the possibility of a choice which will require a commitment of their lives. As Jesus with the disciples of Emmaus, so the Church must become today the traveling companion of young people … This is what is needed: a Church for young people, which will know how to speak to their heart and enkindle, comfort, and inspire enthusiasm in it with the joy of the Gospel and the strength of the Eucharist.”
POPE JOHN PAUL II
The challenge of discipleship – of following Jesus – is at the heart of the Church’s mission.
Young people experience the Catholic faith at home, in the parish, and in other organizations serving youth. Ministry with adolescents must be directed toward presenting young people with the Good News of Jesus Christ and inviting and challenging them to become his disciples. Catechesis is an essential part of youth ministry. We must offer young people a spiritually challenging and world-shaping vision that meets their hunger for the chance to participate in a worthy adventure.
The Family
“A family is the first community and the most basic way in which the Lord gathers us, forms us, and acts in the world.” (Follow the Way of Love, p.8) The profound and ordinary moments of daily life are the threads from which families can weave a pattern of holiness.
Parents are a vital part of their child’s faith formation!
All Across America, far too many young people are struggling to construct their lives without an adequate foundation upon which to build. The effects of consumerism and the entertainment media often encourage a culture of isolation. Many families lack sufficient time together and the resources to develop strong family relationships, to communicate life-giving values and a religious faith, to celebrate family rituals, to participate in family activities, and to contribute to the well-being of their community.
The Church can contribute toward strong, life-shaping families for young people by equipping, supporting, and encouraging families with youth to engage in family faith formation – to pray together and participate in shared service activities.
Youth-friendly Parish Community
Parishes are communities of faith, of action, and of hope. They are where the Gospel is proclaimed and celebrated; the place where God’s people meet Jesus in word and sacrament. The parish has a special role in promoting participation in the life, mission, and work of the faith community. They should be a place where young people are welcomed, grow in Jesus Christ, and minister side by side with the adults of the community.
Parishes should have programs for young people that recognize their special talents and role in the life of the Church; a place with opportunities to use their gifts and to express their faith through meaningful roles. The parish should see young people as a resource.
Youth-serving Organizations
Religious Education programs and activities guide youth and act as mentors in their faith development. These organizations help young people deepen their relationship with God and develop a spirit of joyful giving. They provide a place where youth can learn and focus on ethical decision making. It is important that these organizations provide youth the opportunity to participate in the life of their parish and diocese.
Please contact the R.E. Office for a schedule of Middle School Youth Ministry events
(671-4434), or check the weekly church bulletin.
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