Youth Ministry

https://neworcester.org/

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) bases its work with youth on two significant documents: Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation, Christus Vivit (2019), and the U.S. Bishops' pastoral framework, Renewing the Vision (1996). In addition, the Directory for Catechesis (2020), developed by the Vatican's Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization, offers great insight into the Church's accompaniment and engagement with young people.

The Bishops offer three goals, seven themes, and eight components to pastoral leaders and local communities to consider when accompanying adolescents on their faith journey. 

THREE GOALS FOR MINISTRY WITH ADOLESCENTS:

1. To empower young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today.
2. To draw young people to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic faith community.
3. To foster the total personal and spiritual growth of each young person.

SEVEN THEMES OF A COMPREHENSIVE VISION:

1. Developmentally Appropriate
2. Family Friendly
3. Intergenerational
4. Multicultural
5. Community-Wide Collaboration
6. Leadership
7. Flexible and Adaptable Programming

EIGHT COMPONENTS OF A COMPREHENSIVE MINISTRY:

1. Advocacy
2. Catechesis
3. Community Life
4. Evangelization
5. Justice and Service
6. Leadership Development
7. Pastoral Care
8. Prayer and Worship

These and other wisdom from the Church's teaching form the principles of Catholic youth ministry, now and into future generations.

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