nn


2003-2004
Committee Members
 Fr. Ron Bourgault - Pastor
Jean Whitney - Chair
Paula Santillo
Lorna Hebert
Kathy Hodge
Mike Hill
Pat Hughes
Susan Rufo            Jon Kenney
Joyce Pinney - Coordinator of Youth Ministry

......................

Youth Ministry Committee

The members of the Youth Ministry Committee recognize Youth Ministry as the response of our Christian community to the specific needs of young people, and the sharing of the unique gifts of the youth with the larger community. Youth Ministry at St. Zepherin is relational, multidimensional, holistic, and people-centered. Adolescence is a significant time in the development of the human person. Our parish community has an important role in building assets in youth and assisting youth to successfully complete the developmental tasks particular to adolescence. The presence of young people at our parish is a sign of hope and a great gift to us.

The vision of the Church for youth is grounded in a contemporary understanding of the life and work of Jesus Christ, and expressed through eight components of advocacy, catechesis, community life, evangelization, justice and service, leadership development, pastoral care, and prayer and worship. Our young people are integral to all ministries at St. Zepherin, authentically involved in our mission.

Youth Ministry strives to promote quality programs, healthy relationships and functions for youth in grades 6-12. This inclusive ministry provides faith formation, social activities, retreats and service projects as well as leadership training and mentoring. We offer many opportunities for our youth to grow within the Catholic community and with Jesus.

The Youth Ministry process happens when a variety of people, through a team approach, share with one another their stories and their lives. Committee members advise, support, plan, and evaluate youth ministry religious education for grades 6-12 (middle and high school). The members are active volunteers/adult leaders in various youth ministry groups, retreats, service projects, and social activities. They encourage the youth of the parish to participate fully in parish life through service and active involvement in Mass, particularly the 6:00 PM Youth Mass. By doing so, they share the story of our Creator. Youth Ministry also supports and helps strengthen families through its comprehensive programs, services and resources.

If you're interested in joining this committee call Joyce Pinney or Fr. Ron at 653-8013 or email Joyce for more information.

Youth Ministry Mission Statement
All youth are constantly challenged to recognize the Gospel message: responding to the message of Jesus Christ and integrating it into their daily lives.

The Mass is the foundation and central emphasis for all Catholics, therefore, all families must place a priority on participation at Mass and in parish life.

Every family is affirmed as the foundation and source of faith and faith development.

Youth Ministry in our parish utilizes a relational ministry approach: adults and youth mentor and witness their faith lives to all.

Youth Ministry belongs to, and therefore is, the responsibility of all parish members. It takes a parish to educate a young person.

This approach encourages youth to develop a personal relationship with God, and an understanding of their Catholic faith through social, spiritual, and educational activities.

Youth Ministry is all inclusive and is open to all parish youth.