Goals of Youth Ministry
- To empower youth people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today.
- To draw young people to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic faith community.
- To foster the total personal and spiritual growth of each young person.
Keys to Success
- Youth leaders who are passionate about their faith and youth.
- Catechists must be willing to make a significant commitment: for preparation time and class time.
- Catechesis methodology must be based on active learning principals: combining teacher lecture, small group discussion and activities.
- A youth friendly Church environment that is open to their talents, energy and enthusiasm.
- Comprehensive program including catechesis, liturgy, worship, community building and service.
- Catechesis grounded on the scripture and teachings of the Catholic Church, including the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
- Ministry that is family friendly and that celebrates and appreciates diversity.
- Catechises who are flexible and can adapt to the needs of the program and the youth.
Catechism Resources
St. Mary’s Press Faith Initiative
- Four Core books on Catechesis based on the updated Catechism of the Catholic Church: The Creed; Liturgy & Sacraments; Christian Morality; and Christian Prayer.
- Six Youth Ministry Books focused on living the faith: Evangelization; Community Life; Pastoral Care; Justice & Service; Prayer & Worship; and Youth Leadership.
- Two additional resources are provided for the Catechist: The Catholic Faith Handbook & Catholic Youth Bible.
- Each of the books has 10 to 12 one hour sessions with additional optional session extensions.
St. Mary’s Press Horizons
- Seven Core Books (12 - 2 hour sessions) and 22 Mini-Series ( 6 – 2 hour sessions)
- Based on active learning, a combination of
- Each session must be divided into 2 one hour classes
- Core Central religious themes are carefully integrated with prayer and examination of the Scriptures
Sadlier Faith and Witness
- Four books for the catechesis of younger teens in 9th Grade: New Testament; Church History; Morality; and Liturgy & Worship
- Each book has approximately 20 one hour sessions.
