This Sunday's first reading tells the story of one of three major deaths in the New Testament. But there is a difference here. We hear Stephen doing something John the Baptist isn't reported doing: asking for mercy for those persecuting him. Why the change? To answer, remember what happen between John and Stephen: Jesus. Now, there's a new understanding of death. Relationships change but they do not end.

For you this week:

1. This month's Pastor's Mailing includes some great tips on creating (or evaluating) your parish Youth Ministry Team. Mailed this week, this should be in your pastor's hands by Tuesday so you can read your own copy before bringing it up for discussion!

2. If you haven't already signed up for the Youth Ministry Retreat to the Franciscan Spirituality Center in Aston, PA next Thursday May 27th, you still have time! Cost is only $10 and our day will include a guided discussion on the labyrinth (located on the grounds). If interested, please email Chris Pochwat.

3. The final AYM (Association of Youth Ministers) meeting before summer will take place on June 10th at the home of Robyn Correale beginning at 9:30 a.m. Evaluation and elections are on the agenda. All are welcome to attend! Email Robyn for directions.

4. "Take me out to the ballgame..." In fact, take everyone! Announcing the Youth Ministry Night with the Wilmington Blue Rocks, June 4th. Cost is $20/person. Tickets include picnic buffet dinner, the game, and a fireworks show. For more information, contact Robyn Correale at (302) 239-7100 x20.

5. Even if you missed the Symposium on Effective Practices, you can still contribute to the conversation! We've posted the ideas online. Browse the ideas and even suggest your own ways to improve our ministry to our young church.

6. Signups are now open for YLI 2004! Look for more detailed info online and in the mail this week.

7. Summer School isn't always a bad idea. LaSalle University will host a weeklong intensive training in youth ministry, complete with the latest trends, great program ideas, and an overview of the Millennial Generation. Graduate credit available. CYM's own Patrick Donovan is the instructor and the class runs from July 19-23. For more info, call 215-957-1335 or email Fr. Frank Berna, OFM, Ph.D.

8. The Diocese’s Hispanic Ministry Office will be sponsoring the 2004 Encuentro Juventil for youth and young adults on Pentecost Sunday (May 30th) at Immaculate Conception Parish in Marydel, MD. Registration begins at 12:00 noon and the day concludes at 7:30p.m. Encuentro is open to youth and young adults of all backgrounds from across the diocese. The day includes liturgy, topical presentations, a dinner of delicious Latino foods, and a concert. For more information, contact Fr. Chris Posch at (302) 655-0518.

9. Mark your calendar for the Silver Summer Seminar on June 16-17 at Padua Academy. This is a wonderful opportunity for all ministers to Renew, Refresh, and Revitalize. Keynote presenter will be internationally renowned author Tom Zanzig and his theme is Discipleship. For more information or to register see your parish DRE/CRE.

10. Do you have an announcement to share? Ladders Online is the official online newsletter for Catholic Youth Ministry. If you have news to share, visit the Ladders Online homepage and find out how to get the word out!

This week our dear friend Anna Scally, President of Cornerstone Media and keynote for last year's Kommotion, buried her father. In the obituary, Anna wrote the following: "Tommy enjoyed life fully. He had a great sense of humor, and made everyone feel better for having known him. To know him was to love him. He was a great role model. In lieu of flowers, please do something nice for someone in need in honor of Tommy." What a great way to honor her dad...please keep Anna and her mom (also named Anna) in your prayers and encourage your young people to accept her challenge. Tommy, rest in peace.

Quotable: "Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself." ~Leo Nikolaevich Tolstoy