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Engagement #2
We assist our young people in understanding their role in the wider faith community
Context
As young Christians, whether you are workers or students, whether you have already begun a career or have answered the call to marriage, religious life or the priesthood, you are not only a part of the future of the Church; you are also a necessary and beloved part of the Church’s present! You are Church’s present! Keep close to one another, draw ever closer to God, and with your bishops and priests spend these years in building a holier, more missionary and humble Church, a Church which loves and worships God by seeking to serve the poor, the lonely, the infirm and the marginalized. (Pope Francis at Asian Youth Day Closing Mass, August 17)
Goal
Effective and comprehensive pastoral ministry with young people calls for young people to be welcomed into leadership roles within the parish community and that the opinion of young people does count.
Suggested Implementation
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Encourage Enthusiasm: Young people offer energy and enthusiasm. We must do all we can to encourage and properly channel the “youthfulness” of our parish.
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The National Parish: What opportunities exist for young people to be engaged in national Catholic movements, service organizations, or community projects (e.g., Catholic Relief Service’s Food Fast, local food drives, St. Vincent de Paul food pantries)?
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Multi-Generational Ministries: Consider offering opportunities where young people work side by side with adult leaders in ministry.
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Beyond the Parish: How are our young people visible in the diocesan church? Are they actively participants in CHOAS, the Pilgrimage, NCYC, Youth Leadership Team, and the Diocesan Commission for Young Adults?
Methods for Evaluation
Within the same calendar year as you attempt to address this concern, delegate individuals, both young and old, to ask:
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Is most young people’s experience of the parish limited to youth-only ministry alone?
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Is most of the parish’s experience of the young people limited to youth-only ministry alone?
