What do young people really ask of the Church in your diocese today? In asking high school and young adult youth directly what they would like the Church to offer them, the overwhelming response was that they want more! The most common response was for more activities to help them grow in their faith (23), including opportunities to learn about aspects of the faith or to experience retreats. An equally occurring response was for more activities of fellowship and fun (23). Related was the call for true community, with the call for groups that are supportive, honest, accepting, and relatable (16). Fourteen youth mentioned Mass in what they want the Church to offer. However, the specific comments about Mass were divergent. Nine suggested making Mass more engaging in general, or specifically through music or participation in liturgical ministries. There were also 3 suggestions for a separate Mass for young people. Two young people suggested more solemn and reverent Mass. Ten youth suggested allowing for more input and suggestions from youth as well as youth leadership. Responses also indicated service opportunities (8) and opportunities to learn about vocations (3). The surveys also included an open ended question about what they would like to share with Pope Francis. Suggestions for Pope Francis included:
Considering this quick snapshot of what some teens and young adults are asking of the Church in the Diocese of Youngstown, what AFFIRMS your ministry efforts? What challenges you?
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What kinds and places of group gatherings of youth, institutionalized or otherwise, have a major success within the Church, and why? Fortunately, in some parishes/schools, the effort to promote youth and young adult programs within the Church has seen some success in reaching out to young people, such as:
What kinds and places of group gatherings of youth, institutionalized or otherwise, have a major success outside the Church, and why? Generally speaking, the survey indicates that the way young people are best engaged are through sports (26) and music (22), which both received a significant number of responses. Social media and technology was also often mentioned as successful at reaching youth (14). The arts were also mentioned, as well as general school activities, teachers, and coaches. Many youth reported on attributes of groups that had success, such as being accepting and welcoming, relating to teens and personally connect with them, and fostering a sense of community among young adults. How do these findings affirm your current ministries? How do these findings challenge you? "And the Survey Says..." Insights from the Diocesan Synod Surveys At the 2017 Ministry Day workshop with Fr. Chris Luoni and Cindee Case, we discussed some of what we learned through the input of nearly 500 teens, young adults, parents and Church leaders in preparing for the 15th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops focused on "Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment." We laid it out as a bit of a game show, inviting attendees to guess at the responses of the high school teens, young adults (20s and 30s) and sometimes parents/family members of the youth and young adults on a few key questions. The results surprised a few folks.... but do keep in mind that the surveys were completed voluntarily for the most part (a Catholic school religion teacher may not have given an option, and perhaps a few parents may have insisted, but it is mostly from volunteers.) Responses also came primarily from people who are very or somewhat connected to a Catholic parish or school, but I was pleased with some very honest responses on what that connection may mean for the individual. In any event, why not test yourself? Let me know if the comment section how you did, what you thought, or how a survey result might impact your ministry. And come back to this blog page for more updates throughout the year. The Powerpoint presentation is attached below (large file) and has been posted online for quick viewing at: (Click on link address or black button) www.slideshare.net/secret/LjWSb61r0tdJpQ
Youngstown Synod Survey Insights, Part 2 What are the main challenges and most significant opportunities for young people in our Diocese today? The challenges that young people face are many and varied. The most common challenges in general listed were social pressures, such as negative peer pressure (40), bullying (12), and anxiety (12), especially around subjects such as drugs and alcohol (33) and human sexuality (8). School was also listed as a common challenge (10). These responses were concentrated among the high school age youth. For those in their late teens and 20s, the challenges shifted more so to challenges of finances (12), not being recognized as adults (9), jobs (5), relationships (5), lack of community (4) and finding one’s path in the world. In the Church context, a lack of faith was cited most often as challenge to staying connected (23). Specific issues with the Church included that it was boring and non-engaging (26), more so for the high school teens, a lack of connection or belief in God (17), and the perception that the Church was too strict (16). Lack of support from parents and leaders contributed to this disconnect for many, as well not feeling part of the community. When stating why young people drift away from Church, a sizeable portion listed the parents’ lack of faith and practice (13), while many did not feel engaged or an important part of the community for Mass. For the opportunities, the survey focused on the question of how young people are active in their parish. For those that took the survey, there were about 15 that indicated they were not active. The vast majority reported being active in at least some way, and many listed several ways they were involved. The most reported activities were: · Liturgical ministries (65), such as altar serving, choir/music ministry, Extraordinary ministers of the Eucharist, lector; · Volunteer and service (40), including parish volunteering and mission trips; · Youth ministry programs and retreats (26); · Catechetical roles (11). Editor's note: I am excited to see that such a great number of young people who are engaged in the various ministries of the Church took time to complete the Synod Surveys. There were also a good number (about 8%) who completed the survey stating they were Catholic but not involved; they helped give insights though on challenges (which we in ministry know we can work to convert to opportunities!) Personal invitation remains key for our ministries, so be sure to continue to be on the look out for talents of interests of teens and young adults then connect them to ways to utilize those within our faith communities! I attended Catholic school from mid-first grade through my freshmen year of high school (St. Joseph in Cuyahoga Falls and St. Vincent-St. Mary in Akron). I cannot recall in which year we had to memorize the Memorare, but I know that it was in grade school and to this day, when someone begins the prayer, my mind automatically continues on as the words are etched in my mind (perhaps even my heart, as that makes for a better prayer.) While memorization is difficult for many (at least for me), I do have to admit that it is nice to have some things ready to recite at a moments notice! I have been able to pray the Memorare (and MANY other prayers) in times of stress, anxiety, uncertainty and even boredom. Of course, as with many things in life, I will admit that I did not understand the prayer when I memorized it. Besides not knowing what implored or incarnate meant, as a child, I was fortunate to now have much need to "Fly" to her. However, as I lived a few more years, I experienced more need for a feeling of protection, and forgiveness, and help. I now wish that I'd had an opportunity to re-learn the prayer as a teen, with focus on a deeper understanding of what we were praying., Of remembering the need for God in my life, and the gift of having Mary to pray with and for me to her Son. Truly understanding that she will not give up on her children, and will help us really can boost our "confidence" of faith! With October being a month dedicated to Mary, what is YOUR favorite Marian prayer? (You can list it in the Comments section below.) Seek ways to break this prayer open with the teens and/or young adults with whom you serve. Dig for that deeper understanding of memorized prayers (and maybe even learn a new one!) While you consider this, why not pray the Memorare with me? Remember, O most gracious Virgin Mary, that never was it known that anyone who fled to your protection, implored your help, and sought your intercession, was left unaided. Inspired with this confidence, I fly to you, O Virgin of virgins, my Mother, to you I come, before you I stand sinful and sorrowful. O Mother of the Word Incarnate! Despise not my petitions, but, in your mercy, hear and answer me. Amen. (Diocese of Youngstown Synod Surveys Summary, Part 1) The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry of the Diocese of Youngstown created six distinct but related online surveys to gather information for the Synod as well as additional information to help guide the work of our local ministries. The surveys were intended for the following audiences (with the number of respondents for each category in parentheses): · Catholic Youth of High School Age (123) · Non-Catholic Youth of High School Age (7) · Catholic Young Adults (101) · Non-Catholic Young Adults (5) · Parents/Families (170) · Staff at parishes and schools (73) The office sent the Preparatory Document with survey instructions to each pastor and Catholic High School Principal, emailed the survey links to contacts for youth ministry and directly to young adults, and used social media (primarily Facebook and Twitter) to publicize the surveys. The surveys were posted on the Diocesan website for three months over the summer. A total of 479 people responded to the surveys. In addition, seventeen people participated in listening sessions at their parish, for a total of 496 people providing input. In addition to the input from these surveys, the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry and the Office of Vocations provided answers for some of the questions. In an effort to highlight the direct experience of youth, these surveys were filtered to only include youth who are 16 to 29 years old, as defined by the Preparatory Document on page 8. A total of 155 responses were in this age range, consisting of 94 High School Youth and 61 Young Adults. The numbers throughout indicate direct responses. If people gave multiple responses to one question, their input was counted for each category of their response. Synod Question 1: In what manner does the Church listen to the lived situations of young people? Unfortunately, a significant number of responses were negative, either that they were not aware of how the Church was listening or that the Church was not listening This was the case for 44 parents/families as well as 15 staff at parishes and schools. A common positive response was there was youth ministry at the parish or listed some youth ministry activities (45), although few of these responses specifically mentioned listening to teens. There were ten responses of youth active in liturgical roles, but again not tied specifically to listening to youth. Eight responses included the participation of youth on Parish Council, which would imply listening to youth as one aspect. Forty-one responses focused on a person that was working directly with the youth – youth minister, CCD teacher, priest, or other caring adults. In the building of relationships, key adults are able to connect with the youth on a personal level and listen to their concerns. Significantly, eleven people cited the pastor or priest as someone who listens to youth. Many people responded that the leadership of the parish was an important factor for assessing whether or not they felt the parish listened to youth. In response to a question about what the Church should do for young people, ten youth stated that the Church should do a better job of listening to the input, suggestions, and opinions of young people. From the perspective of parents/families, staff at parishes and schools, and the youth themselves, the Church can do a better job of listening to the situation of young people. A sign of hope in this endeavor is the adults who are committed to ministry to young people, especially priests, youth ministers, CCD teachings and other caring adults. +++++++++++++++++++ Let us pause here to take a moment for prayer: Lord, Jesus, thank you for the gifts that young people bring to our Church - their energy, enthusiasm, questions, new ideas, criticisms, fresh perspectives and love. We ask that you help all adults in the Church to take more time to listen to the youth, and pro-actively invite them to opportunities for engagement and discipleship. We also thank you for the priests, youth ministers, campus ministers, catechists, mentors, coaches, and other caring adults who have taken the time to listen to and reach out to the young people. May they continue to do so and to inspire others to follow their example. We ask all this in your holy name, amen! During the Ash Wednesday 12:10 p.m. Mass homily at St. Columba Cathedral,
Bishop George V. Murry, S.J. began by sharing that the word Lent means springtime. Often springtime conjures images of cleaning out things after winter. He then continued to talk about spiritually cleaning one's heart for a better relationship with God. However, my mind veered off a bit to the meme seen above. Many people on social media have been sharing this idea of physically cleaning things out this Lent... to simplify your home but also to potentially assist those who may need things. As a bit of a clutterbug (not quite up to the TV show "Hoarders" level, yet, but I have the potential), this is an exhilarating and scary idea. But, I am going to give it a try.... if not 40 large trash bags, then at least several bags and boxes. I am also reminded of the Zelda Fitzgerald quote: What most people need to learn in life is how to love people and use things instead of using people and loving things. While I do my best not to use people, I may have a tendency to love things, as I was taught to treasure gifts from loved ones, and I place perhaps too much emotion into items I own. Therefore, this might just make for a good Lenten practice for me, as I will need to pray my way through it. One prayer I will be praying is the Suscipe by St. Ignatius of Loyola (proud of my Jesuit education): Take Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will, all that I have and possess. Thou hast given all to me. To Thee, O lord, I return it. All is Thine, dispose of it wholly according to Thy will. Give me Thy love and thy grace, for this is sufficient for me. Amen. (As one who grew up in the "Glory and Praise" era of Church music, I often 'hear' this prayer in the musical form, which if you are not familiar, I would encourage you to listen: www.bing.com/videos/search?q=take+lord+receive&view=detail&mid=61D9CBCC50671448A0A861D9CBCC50671448A0A8&FORM=VIRE Please pray with me, and perhaps join in me in this process of letting go. Maybe in the giving of material things, my heart will also let go of hurts, disappointments, or other feelings that impede a joy-filled relationship with God? May I be able to clean out all things that block God's love for me, so that I can be open to a deeper Easter joy. May your Lenten practices do the same for you! +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ Whoever confers benefits will be amply enriched, and whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Whoever hoards grain, the people curse, but blessings are on the head of one who distributes it! Proverbs 11:25-26 The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) have been working on a fantastic video series that we can use for FREE to help share the elements of our Catholic Social Teachings. The videos are brief (3 - 5 minutes each), beautiful and informative. They have been posted on YouTube, so can be easily shared via social media or used in classrooms/meetings. Below, please find direct links to the first few videos, and look for future videos (and additional resources) to be posted at: http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/index.cfm Rights and Responsibilities The Catholic tradition teaches that human dignity can be protected and a healthy community can be achieved only if human rights are protected and responsibilities are met. Therefore, every person has a fundamental right to life and a right to those things required for human decency. Corresponding to these rights are duties and responsibilities--to one another, to our families, and to the larger society. More on Rights and Responsibilities http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/rights-and-responsibilities.cfm Call to Family, Community, and Participation The person is not only sacred but also social. How we organize our society -- in economics and politics, in law and policy -- directly affects human dignity and the capacity of individuals to grow in community. Marriage and the family are the central social institutions that must be supported and strengthened, not undermined. We believe people have a right and a duty to participate in society, seeking together the common good and well-being of all, especially the poor and vulnerable. More on Call to Family, Community, and Participation http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/call-to-family-community-and-participation.cfm Life and Dignity of the Human Person The Catholic Church proclaims that human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the foundation of a moral vision for society. This belief is the foundation of all the principles of our social teaching. In our society, human life is under direct attack from abortion and euthanasia. The value of human life is being threatened by cloning, embryonic stem cell research, and the use of the death penalty. The intentional targeting of civilians in war or terrorist attacks is always wrong. Catholic teaching also calls on us to work to avoid war. Nations must protect the right to life by finding increasingly effective ways to prevent conflicts and resolve them by peaceful means. We believe that every person is precious, that people are more important than things, and that the measure of every institution is whether it threatens or enhances the life and dignity of the human person. More on Life and Dignity of the Human Person http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/life-and-dignity-of-the-human-person.cfm Option for the Poor and Vulnerable A basic moral test is how our most vulnerable members are faring. In a society marred by deepening divisions between rich and poor, our tradition recalls the story of the Last Judgment (Mt 25:31-46) and instructs us to put the needs of the poor and vulnerable first. More on Option for the Poor and Vulnerable http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/option-for-the-poor-and-vulnerable.cfm Care for God's Creation We show our respect for the Creator by our stewardship of creation. Care for the earth is not just an Earth Day slogan, it is a requirement of our faith. We are called to protect people and the planet, living our faith in relationship with all of Gods creation. This environmental challenge has fundamental moral and ethical dimensions that cannot be ignored. More on Care for God's Creation http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/care-for-creation.cfm Videos forthcoming.... > Solidarity We are one human family whatever our national, racial, ethnic, economic, and ideological differences. We are our brothers and sisters keepers, wherever they may be. Loving our neighbor has global dimensions in a shrinking world. At the core of the virtue of solidarity is the pursuit of justice and peace. Pope Paul VI taught that if you want peace, work for justice.1 The Gospel calls us to be peacemakers. Our love for all our sisters and brothers demands that we promote peace in a world surrounded by violence and conflict. More on Solidarity http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/solidarity.cfm > The Dignity of Work and the Rights of WorkersThe economy must serve people, not the other way around. Work is more than a way to make a living; it is a form of continuing participation in Gods creation. If the dignity of work is to be protected, then the basic rights of workers must be respected--the right to productive work, to decent and fair wages, to the organization and joining of unions, to private property, and to economic initiative. More on Dignity of Work and Rights of Workers http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/the-dignity-of-work-and-the-rights-of-workers.cfm Descriptions shared from http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-we-believe/catholic-social-teaching/seven-themes-of-catholic-social-teaching.cfm - (c) USCCB 9/29/2016 Working toward two goals: Engaging Young Adults and Supporting Senior Members of our ChurchRead NowToday, a brainstorm accompanied a thunderstorm.... (are you ready for the idea?) Pair up young adults (in their 20s and 30s) who belong to your parish (look through your former youth ministry rosters and see who is still living in town) with senior members of the parish who need rides to Mass. When I lived in Florida, our parish often ran general bulletin announcements for parishioners to call the rectory if they are willing to pick up older Church members who are unable to drive themselves. A few members of the parish Young Adult Singles Club decided to give it a try. For one member in particular, Susan, who was in her late 20s at the time, she was assigned to drive a nearby parishioner, Agnes. It only meant that Susan had to leave about ten minutes earlier for Mass, and then a few minutes longer to drive home as she paused to drop Agnes back off. This was a great service to Agnes, as she was able to get to Church much more often. Agnes enjoyed getting out of the house and getting to see some of her friends at Church, and was thrilled to be able to celebrate Mass with the community. Susan, of course, began this is a sort of service project.... you know, helping someone who needed the help. Susan was surprised to realize that she also go things out of this arrangement: She gained: 1. a stronger commitment to going to Mass with her responsibility to Agnes (a.k.a. strength to resist turning off the alarm and staying in bed or opting out of a Mass for other reasons as may have been the case on a few Sunday mornings.) 2. someone to sit with at Mass (this was key because Susan really did not like going to Church alone, and her schedule didn't always coincide with her friends' schedules, so sometimes would sit alone prior to driving Agnes. Sometimes though, her friends would also sit with them.) 3. a new parishioner with which to form a relationship and build community. For many months, the commitment was just the transportation to and from Mass. However, Agnes then invited Susan to lunch a couple of times, and they even went to see a couple of movies as their friendship grew. After two years, Susan's job transferred her to a different state, so she said good-bye to Agnes, but for those two years, they both supported each other and were parish community for each other! So, I would like to suggest that parish staffer take some time to recruit young adults to provide this driving service for older members who may not be able to transport themselves to Mass. Or your parish Mission. Or the parish picnic. Or an adult education series. Get the idea? If so, and you do it, I would LOVE to hear how it goes... I do realize it can be tricky as some young adults may have schedules that could frustrate some seniors if they are unable to help on a consistent bases.... and it may take the senior time to trust the younger driver... people would need 'screened' a bit to ensure a good experience for all... but it seems like it could be well worth it. Especially as we seem to seek ways to help young adults (especially singles) feel connected to our faith communities, and as we know some seniors can use the help. Let us inspire our parishioners to take a step closer to Tabitha's description from Acts 9:36 "Now in Joppa there was a disciple named Tabitha (which translated means Dorcas). She was completely occupied with good deeds and almsgiving." by at least getting them to carpool! Have you noticed that we have a big election coming up soon? (Yes, that was sarcasm as I am not sure how any American can be unaware even if he/she avoids TV, radio, and social media.) Hopefully, you are also aware that the Diocese of Youngstown* is sponsoring two sessions on Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship. Perhaps you have already even registered for the free event (please do so we can have adequate materials prepared for the afternoon and evening sessions.) As a young adult, perhaps you have not yet voted, or you never heard that the Catholic Church has suggestions on how we can try to balance our beliefs with our civic duty. "In the Catholic Tradition, responsible citizenship is a virtue, and participation in political life is a moral obligation," according to the U.S. Catholic bishops (Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship, No. 13). First of all, please know that Faithful Citizenship is NOT a sample ballot with boxes checked off for the candidates for whom you should vote. No, these are guidelines for your consideration, deep reflection and prayer. Recall that Jesus often taught in parables which elicited the same needs for thought before a decision could be made. It is not easy.... but it is worth the effort. If you are unable to participate in one of the September 21st sessions referenced above, please know that there are online resources to support your journey. A few pages to note include: Read and reflect upon the bulletin inserts (if your parish does not use them, you can download your own!) There are two that summarize the U.S. Bishops' document, one instructing on how to communicate with your elected officials, and a couple backgrounders like this one on Civil Dialogue: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/parishes-and-schools/upload/Civil-Dialogue-bulletin-insert.pdf ------------------ You can watch a video to learn more about the Bishops' document: bcove.me/cdya02wu (also available in Spanish, as are many of the written resources!) ------------------- Questions to discuss over coffee (or other beverage of your choice): www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/coffee-discussion-guide.cfm -------------- Ideas for parish young adult ministries and collaboratives: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/campuses-and-young-adults/ideas-for-ministry-to-young-adults.cfm ----------- Session plans for adult faith formation/small Christian communities: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/adult-education-and-small-faith-community-sharing-on-the-topic-of-faithful-citizenship.cfm ------------- You can pray for others around the country during the Novena -- listen to the podcasts or read the text: www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/prayers-and-devotions/prayers/novena-for-faithful-citizenship.cfm ------------- And this is the website for even more resources to assist you form youth conscience as a faithful citizen: www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/faithful-citizenship/?mc_cid=b106812cd2&mc_eid=9a210a65da -------------------- May God bless your journey. For the people of the United States, that we may be united in building a society in which everyone can have the opportunity to live with dignity and hope, we pray to the Lord. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ *September 21st events sponsored by The Catholic Diocese of Youngstown Offices of: Campus Ministry, Catholic Charities, Catholic Schools, Continuing Education for Priests, CTNY, Lay Ministry Formation, Pro-Life, Marriage and Family, Permanent Diaconate, Religious Education, Social Action, Vocations, Worship, & Youth and Young Adult Ministry |
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*** Note: The Office Blog is now inactive, but posted for continued reference as needed (6/30/21) ***Cindee Case, MPSFormer Director of the Diocese of Youngstown Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry (2/2002 - 6/2021) Archives
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