At the middle of the cross is Jesus Christ who is the center of all ministries, because it is from him that we receive our mission. Through his Holy Spirit we are able to make our lives and the world a better place. With Jesus at the center of youth ministry the following four aspects must be held in balance in order to fulfill our goal of helping young people know God‚ feel the embrace of the parish community, and respond to the call of serving others. At the foundation of the cross is Service to others. This is a crucial step in the process of becoming a mature adult. Maturity is when we are able to live for ideals that are bigger than ourselves and to be willing to sacrifice personal wants for the sake of others and ideals. Moreover, service and outreach to those in need is a non-negotiable component of our Catholic faith. Liturgical service is also important, because it is a public witness to the value of young people in the church. As if embracing the teens, two communities (parish and peer) are at the outstretched left and right hands of the cross. At the left hand is Parish Community. Youth ministry that involves young people in parish life prepares them for a life-long relationship with the Church. Participation of young people in most aspects of parish life is essential. Many high school students are now serving as Ushers, Eucharistic Ministers, Lectors and representatives to the Parish Council. Our goal is to increase the youth presence in parish ministries, parish committees, and organizations. Youth ministry that does not integrate young people into parish life leaves them wondering about their role in the church when they leave high school. At the right hand of the cross is the Peer Community. Just as integration into the life of the parish is important, it is also important to afford high school students the opportunity to socialize specifically with their peers. Social activities, retreats and outings for teenagers are important to facilitate their commitment to one another. We need to provide opportunities for teens to have fun with those who share a common faith and hold similar values. Personal Growth emerges from the top of the cross with the support of the three other youth ministry components. With the support of the Parish and Peer Communities, and in their service to others, teens will grow morally and spiritually. Teens can be attentive to their personal growth by attending youth activities, such as Life Nights, and other group activities that focus on issues teenagers are facing today. Faith sharing and Bible study groups help teens to see how their faith is related to their everyday experiences. We need to allow teenagers to ask difficult and controversial questions in a healthy and caring environment. Jesus is the center of youth ministry exuding strength to all four aspects of the ministry: Service, Parish Community, Peer Community, and Personal Growth. |
