I had to really pause to ponder this from Gratefulness.org: If I had my life to live over again, I would ask that not a thing be changed, but that my eyes be opened wider. ~ Jules Renard I will admit, there are many times when I replay memories and yearn to have a "do - over" -- too often I speak too flippantly, or I missed moments I could have savored, or I have been in too much of a hurry to truly experience a moment... Sound at all familiar? I am sure I cannot be on the only one, but I envy you if you have already mastered this (perhaps you can help teach me?) This must help to explain the wisdom of the Church in giving us the season of Lent each year.... time for us to examine our lives, our choices, our conscience and see what can be done differently in the future (not a do-over, but at least a do-better opportunity!) Today's quote now shapes my Lenten reflection: How can I live with my eyes open wider more often in the future... ... to see needs of others that I may be able to assist? ... to see the good in stressful or negative situations? ... to see pain behind forced smiles? ... to see love rather than malice, hostility, anger, or hatred? ... to see more of God's amazing creations? ....to see the face of Christ in more of the people I encounter! The lyrics to Jesse Manibusan's "Open My Eyes, Lord" continues to have deeper meaning for me: Ahhh, to see with the eyes of Christ! God help me,
and St. Joseph, on your feast day, may you also strengthen me! Amen!
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+++ Youngstown's Young Adult News Connecting Young Adults to Jesus, the Catholic Church & One Another For those 19-39, Single or Married, in the Catholic Diocese of Youngstown In this edition: -- Lenten Resources -- World Youth Day Poland, Deposits now due -- Free Online Course on The Joy of the Gospel -- Retreat Opportunities -- Speaker Series/Special Presentations -- Conferences (To be removed from this email list, just reply with that request) ------------------------------------- Lenten Resources: Lent begins Ash Wednesday, February 18. Start your Lent off right by creating your plan to fast, pray, and give with some of these great Lenten resources: Watch "Lent in 2 Minutes" (From Busted Halo.,com): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3L3c23MfC0&feature=youtu.be The Holy Father's message for Lent 2015: http://w2.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/messages/lent/documents/papa-francesco_20141004_messaggio-quaresima2015.html Lent Resources from the USCCB http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/liturgical-year/lent/index.cfm Lenten Books From Loyola Press http://www.loyolapress.com/lenten-special.htm?utm_source=NSO&utm_medium=email&utm_content=d1&utm_campaign=LentenMTE2015 Lenten Calendar from Busted Halo http://bustedhalo.com/features/fast-pray-give-2014 Lenten Resources (Operation Rice Bowl) and Simple Meal Recipes from Catholic Relief Services http://www.crsricebowl.org/ Lenten Resources from Our Sunday Visitor https://www.osv.com/MyFaith/ChurchSeasonsandFeasts/Lent.aspx ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ -- World Youth Day Poland 2016 Deposits Now Due for the International Gathering for World Youth Day in Kraków, Poland, July 24 – August 2, 2016 The Diocese of Youngstown is working with Faith Journeys on a pilgrimage to Krakow, Poland for the international gathering for World Youth Day 2016 for those ages 16 – 35 (note: those age 16 – 17 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian). There is a land only option for those who wish to select their own flights, and Cleveland to Warsaw flights arranged for full-package travelers. The pilgrimage includes a tour of Auschwitz and Wadowice (birthplace of St. John Paul II). The trip itinerary and registration form can be downloaded from the diocesan webpage for World Youth Day: http://youngstownoyyam.weebly.com/2016-wyd-pilgrimage.html For general information about World Youth Day, visit the official website: http://www.krakow2016.com/en/ ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ “Fostering a Culture of ENCOUNTER with Young Disciples” – Register now A FREE Massively Open Online Course (or MOOC) is being offered by the National Association of Catholic Youth Ministry Leaders (NACYML) for all adults who minister with young people. Each of the 5 weeks will discuss a chapter of the Holy Father Pope Francis’ Evangelii Gaudium. or “The Joy of the Gospel,” feature nationally known speakers and discussions boards on various topics/areas of ministry. Focuses for learning groups might include parents/family, theological foundations, the youth ministry leader, liturgy, faith formation, confirmation, social justice, religious vocations, Catholic schools,Young adults in ministries, digital/social media, and the role of clergy. Take as many weeks as you like, April 12 through May 16, 2015. Course material will be posted on Sundays, live discussions with the speakers will be offered on Tuesdays, and discussions will run throughout the week. Track your participation to earn up to 5 hours per week towards Religious Education office certification. Register online at: http://www.nacyml.org/moocRegister.htm ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ -- Retreat Opportunities > "Where is the Spirit Calling YOU?" Spirit @ Work Retreat for 20s & 30s Saturday, March 21, 9 a.m. - noon Sunday, March 22 @ Sister of Notre Dame in Chardon OH (near Cleveland) with Charis Ministries Reflect on your gifts and how you are called to use them. Hear peers talk about faith in their lives and work, discuss in small groups, pray and learn Ignatian tools to discern where God is calling you. $40 includes overnight accommodations, meals and retreat fees. Register at: charisministries.org or contact Sr. Kate for more info: [email protected], 440-476-6094. (I know of at least one young lady from Canton who is registered form our diocese!) --- > "What Next" Retreat for Catholics in 20s and 30s March 28-29 @ Proctor Retreat Center, London OH Our careers, life situations, relationships, and identities are always changing -- Explore the transitions that define who we are and consider how faith can carry you through. $65 For more information and to register, visit: charisministries.org/WhatNext_Columbus_March2015 --- > "Unlocking the Heart: A Lenten Journey of Renewal" Friday, March 20, 6 p.m. - 4 p.m. Saturday, March 21 @ Villa Maria PA Lent signals the time to get back in shape spiritually. It’s the time we turn again and refocus our vision. Are we open to the presence of God in our hearts and do we listen to the whispered Voice of the Holy, calling and coaxing us to new life? Join with others to the quiet spaces of your own soul in this Lenten weekend. For more information, Email Sr. Cheryl Rose, [email protected], Or send in your name, age, address, phone, an special needs you may have, and mail $50 check made out to Sisters of the Humility of Mary by Feb. 21st to: 20015 Detroit Road Rocky River, OH 44116 to register. ============================================== Speaker Series & Special Presentations > Be sure to check out your local parish offerings for this Lent such as Soup and Speakers, Parish Missions, Penance Services, etc. Here are just a few things to consider: THEOLOGY ON TAP, Mahoning Valley -- For those in their 20s and 30s: Wednesday, March 18, 7 - 9:30 p.m. @ Vintage Estate Wine & Beer in Boardman, Ohio Thirsting for something more in your life? Then tap in to this speaker series for young adults (ages 20s and 30s). It is FREE to attend, you just buy any beverage or snacks you wish to order. Information at: https://www.facebook.com/groups/253398624683857/ or search on Facebook for Mahoning County Theology on Tap. **** The February gathering was held a week early ***** but if you missed that or are just looking for options this Ash Wednesday, the Cathedral would welcome you: Mass with Ash Distribution: 7:45 a.m. 12:10 p.m. 6:00 p.m. Annual Pasta fagioli dinner Ash Wednesday February 18, 2015, 11 a.m. - 7 p.m. @St. Columba Hall $6.50 includes, soup, salad, bread & butter and dessert. There will be pop and pizza for sell as well. You can eat in or take out. For more information, contact Lisa Fetty at 330- 503-6895. (This is where I'll be lunching for my main meal for the day!) --- Spirits and Spirituality Friday, February 27th 7:00pm @ The Blue Fig Bar & Grill, 6041 Whipple Ave. N.W. North Canton, OH 44720 The perfect brew of Faith & Fun -- St. Anthony/All Saints Parish, St. Michael’s Parish and Little Flower Parish invite all Stark County Young Adults to Spirits and Spirituality. Spirits and Spirituality is a speaker series for adults, married and single, in their 20’s and 30’s. This program provides opportunities to explore issues and topics that relate to Catholic faith in a fun and casual environment. Join us for an informal gathering of food, faith and fun for young adults. Stirring a Passion for the Bible -- Cackie Upchurch, Presenter Cackie Upchurch serves as the director of Little Rock Scripture Study, a ministry of the Diocese of Little Rock in Arkansas. She enjoys helping adult Catholics experience Christ through the riches of God’s Word, inviting them to use the Bible in simple and effective ways. She is the general editor for the Little Rock Catholic Study Bible, and an associate editor of The Bible Today, a journal of biblical spirituality. To register, please contact Roberta Muoio at [email protected] ♦ 330-452-9539 or register on-line at www.stanthonyallsaintscanton.org. --- Bishop Franzetta Lecture: Please mark the date and be sure to invite others to join you for the next Bishop Franzetta Memorial Lecture Series. Wednesday, March 11, 2015 6:00 p.m. Gathering, dinner, and presentation Our Lady of Mount Carmel Social Hall, Youngstown Bishop Frank Caggiano, Bishop of Bridgeport, Connecticut will address “The New Evangelization” in the after dinner presentation. Bishop Caggiano is a popular speaker for adults and young people promoting evangelization and vitality for the Catholic faith. Tickets: $25 per person. For more information please contact Linda Tedde at 330-744-8451 ext. 252 (** If you are interested in a table with other young adults, financial assistance available, contact Cindee, [email protected] **) The Bishop Benedict C. Franzetta Memorial Lecture Series honors Bishop Franzetta whose leadership contributed to the growth of many in the faith of Jesus Christ. --- >THE HAMILTON FORUM Thursday, March 26, 7 p.m. @ St. Michael, Canton Professor Matthew Ashley of Notre Dame What Have We Learned About Evolution and Christian Faith. --- Walsh University Pro-Life Club Monday, February 23, 7 p.m. @ Barrett Business Center, Walsh University, Canton Carol Tobias, National Right to Life Committee President Please bring baby formula, diapers or new/gently used baby clothes to donate to a local Pregnancy Care Center. www.walsh,edu ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Evening of songs, scripture and reflection of the Lenten Season @ St. Joan of Arc Church, Canton March 11, 2015 7 -8:30pm *Free* ------------------------------------------------------------ CONFERENCES: NCCC (National Catholic Collegiate Conference) for those post high school, ages 18 - 25 @ Indianapolis, IN Join other college-age and post-graduate young adults from around the country for three days of inspiring keynotes, engaging workshops, dynamic prayer and worship, exceptional music and entertainment, networking with peers, and hundreds of resource exhibits. Look for speakers, workshops, and registration materials this summer at: http://www.ntlccc.org/ --- Catholics on Call is now accepting applications for its 2015 Young Adult Summer Conference. Catholics on Call invites young people, ages 18-30, who are considering a life of service in the Church to join them for their 2015 young adult summer conference. Participants will have the opportunity to connect and pray with other like-minded young adults, to hear nationally-known speakers discuss how to listen to God’s call, and to learn valuable skills that will help them to discern their vocation, whether it be to lay ecclesial ministry, priesthood or religious life. This five-day conference will take place from August 4-8, 2015 at Catholic Theological Union in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago. Registration fee is $100 and includes room and board. For an application please visit www.catholicsoncall.org or for more information contact Catholics on Call at [email protected] or 773.371.5431. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Best wishes for a warm rest of your President's Day, a fun Mardi Gras, and a holy season of Lent ~ Cindee -- Cindee Case, Director Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry (OY&YAM) Catholic Diocese of Youngstown 144 West Wood Street, Youngstown, OH 44503 phone: 330-744-8451 X 280 fax: 330-744-5899 http://youngstownoyyam.weebly.com Stay connected with the office: Ø Facebook: Youngstown-Youth Young-Adults https://www.facebook.com/youngstownyouth.youngadults (Please "like" the office page at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Youth-and-Young-Adult- Ministry-Diocese-of-Youngstown/155428204509463?ref=hl) Ø Twitter: @YoungInYtown Ø Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/youngstownyouth/ Ø Instagram: @CindeeNYoungstown Ø Diocesan website: http://www.doy.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=88&Itemid=93 ============================================== “Pray often to the Holy Spirit so that He may help us, give us the strength, give us the inspiration and lead us forward” (Pope Francis, 1/11/15) A couple key quotes for all of us in youth ministries:
> Much more than the promotion of a series of activities for young people, this ministry consists in walking with them, accompanying them personally in the complex and at times difficult contexts in which they are immersed.” > "Youth ministry is called to gather the questions of young people of today and, from them, to initiate a true and honest dialogue to bring Christ into their lives" (Which words jumped out to you that can have impact on our ministries here in the USA?) -------------------------------- Full story: Pope's Message to 4th European Congress on Youth Ministry Vatican City, December 11, 2014 (Zenit.org) | Here is a translation of the message Pope Francis sent this morning to the president of the Pontifical Council for the Laity, Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko, and to participants in the 4th European Congress on Youth Ministry. The three-day conference began today in Rome. It is sponsored by the laity council in collaboration with the Council of European Bishops' Conferences on the theme: A Young Church, Witness of the Joy of the Gospel. * * * To the Venerable Brother Lord Cardinal Stanislaw Rylko President of the Pontifical Council for the Laity I express my cordial greeting to you, to the Bishops, and to the National Directors of the young people gathered these days at Rome for the 4th European Congress on Youth Ministry, organized by the Pontifical Council for the Laity, in collaboration with the Council of European Bishops’ Conferences, on the theme: A Young Church, Witness of the Joy of the Gospel. After the three meetings of the 90s, you are undertaking again to “walk together through the streets of Europe.” I invite you to recall that, as we walk while conversing and discussing together, Jesus approaches us in person and walks with us (cf. Luke 24:15). As the disciples of Emmaus, we let Him open our eyes to recognize Him, helping us to find in Himself the meaning of this difficult but exciting piece of history that is given to us to live together. You, who work in the field of youth ministry, do valuable work for the Church. Young people are in need of this service: of adults and mature contemporaries in the faith who accompany them on their path, helping them to find the way that leads to Christ. Much more than the promotion of a series of activities for young people, this ministry consists in walking with them, accompanying them personally in the complex and at times difficult contexts in which they are immersed. Youth ministry is called to gather the questions of young people of today and, from them, to initiate a true and honest dialogue to bring Christ into their lives. And in this connection, a true dialogue can be engaged in by one who lives a personal relation with the Lord Jesus, which overflows into the relation with brothers. You have come together for this reason, to create a “network” of acquaintances and friendships at the European level, thanks to which those in charge of the Continent’s youth pastoral ministry can share experiences had “in the field” and the questions that flow from them. We are well aware that there is much to be done. I ask you not to ever tire of proclaiming the Gospel, with your life and word: Today’s Europe is in need of rediscovering it! Therefore, I wish to encourage you to consider the present reality of European young people with the look of Christ. He teaches you to see not only the challenges and problems, but to recognize the many seeds of love and hope scattered in the terrain of this Continent, which has given the Church a great number of men and women Saints, and many of these are young! Let us not forget that we have been given the task to sow, but it is God who makes the seeds grow that we scatter (cf. 1 Corinthians 3:7). While you sow the Lord’s Word in this vast field that is European youth, you have the occasion to witness the reasons of the hope that is in you, with gentleness and respect (cf. 1 Peter 3:15). You can help young people to realize that faith is not opposed to reason, and thus support them to become joyful protagonists of the evangelization of their contemporaries. Finally, dear friends, in this year that calls attention at the same time to the family and to consecrated life, youth pastoral ministry is called to propose to young people a path of vocational discernment, to prepare themselves to follow Jesus on the way of conjugal and family life or on that of a special consecration to the service of the Kingdom of God. I pray to the Lord, through the intercession of the Holy Virgin, that the work of these days is rich in fruits for your commitment in youth ministry and, yet first, for your path of holiness, because it is holiness that makes the Church grow and opens hearts to receive the Gospel. I ask you, please, to pray for me and I bless you affectionately. From the Vatican, December 11, 2014 FRANCISCUS [Original text: Italian] [Translation by ZENIT] I came across these statistics from Pew Research again, and paused to think about these two statistics: 20% of Americans "shared own faith online" and 40% "shared faith in real-life setting in the past week. One would hope with the ending of the Christmas season that both of these stats would be higher (especially if you count the "Keep Christ in Christmas" memes that were posted via Facebook and Twitter!) But, now that we have begun Ordinary Time, does that mean that until Ash Wednesday, we might be quiet about our faith? Of course, I hope not! Particularly for those of us in ministry with youth and/or young adults. If we are to facilitate faith discussions with them, we must be willing to share pieces of our faith story. I've decided to work a bit more on this personally, as a bit of a belated New Year's Resolution. I began by posting on social media a picture from my Baptism day and commented on my daily commitment to live my Baptismal Promises. + How might you share your faith a bit more, both on social media and in person? How might you encourage those with whom you serve to do the same? Yesterday, we celebrated the Baptism of the Lord. Did you also recall stories from your own Baptism? I will admit that I do not remember mine as I was only a month old....but my godfather is still alive, so stories live on! (I don't look like I enjoyed it at the time, but I did start to appreciate it later in life and I still do my best to live those Baptismal Promises!) I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. (The Rite of Baptism)
--------------------------------------------------------- Baptism, in fact, is more of a washing and a purification. It's more than becoming part of a community. It is a new birth. It is a new beginning of life. In Baptism we give ourselves over to Christ - he takes us unto himself so that we no longer live for ourselves, but through Him, with Him and in Him. We live with Him and thus for others. In Baptism we surrender ourselves, we place our lives in his hands so that we can say with St. Paul: "It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me." Baptism implies this news: our life now belongs to Christ, no longer to ourselves. For this reason we are not alone even in death, but we are with Him who lives forever. Greeted by Christ in his love, we are free from fear and we live in and of the love of the One Who is Life. (Monsignor Francesco Follo, Zenit) Be part of the NCCYM even if not in San Antonio! General Sessions to be Streamed Live on the Web Thanks to generous sponsors, each of the NCCYM General Sessions will be streamed live on the web free of charge for those who are not able to join us in San Antonio. Simply go to www.nfcym.org and click on the NCCYM Live! link to access the session via computer. Please share this information with others who may wish to join us and benefit from these dynamic and prayerful gatherings. Thursday, December 4 2:00-3:30 PM ET Opening Welcome/Liturgy featuring Archbishop Gustavo Garcia-Siller Thursday, December 4 8:30-10:30 PM ET General Session featuring Roy Petitfils Friday, December 5 10:00- 11:30 AM ET General Session featuring Sr. Helen Prejean Friday, December 5 6:00-7:00 PM ET General Session featuring Dr. Timone Davis Saturday, December 6 10:00- 11:30 AM ET General Session featuring Fr. Greg Boyle Saturday, December 6 8:30 -11 PM ET Presentation of the National YM Awards and Closing Liturgy with Bishop Oscar Cantu I am so grateful for the group leaders who processed forms and invited teens and chaperones from the 31 parishes and two Catholic high schools to be part of the recent Diocesan Youth Convention 2014: Amazed! My appreciation also goes to our DYC'14 Planning Team, speakers, activity leaders, and volunteers. It was a day filled with inspiration, prayer, learning, celebration and fun. However, it was only one day. Hopefully a wonderful day, but just one day. The impact will only be made if the participants take time to ponder and process; if this was a step along the faith journey to be continued. Most of the responsibility for facilitating this falls to the parents and parish ministers. Taking time to talk with and listen to participants is key. Some of the same questions we ask during and immediately following a big event can be repeated: --what did you like most about the DYC? -- what can you recall from the keynote speaker's presentation (Mary Lou Beers) -- did anything from her story inspire you to hold on to your faith? -- talk about the workshops attended -- what was new? With what did you agree or disagree? Did you learn of any new resources or tools? -- talk about the Amazing Connections stations: what did you do? See? Win? Who did you meet and what do they do? Is there anything you want to know more about? -- what did you like about celebrating Mass with a larger community of your peers? In the DYC'14 closing session, you might recall that everyone was asked to note some commitment that will be made in the next week, month or season (page 11 of the program book.) Ask how their commitment is going? Maybe a few of the teens and chaperones would be willing to share what they wrote and what resulted? In an example given by emcee Kevin, it proposed that someone who attended the "Chosen" workshop or labeled bars of soap at the S.O.A.P. Project table would take time to visit the website for the Collaborative to End Human Trafficking (http://collaborativeinitiative.org/). Perhaps this then becomes a topic for discussion and prayer at your parish? As more time passes, perhaps you can still 'check in' with participants to see if new insights have occurred to them from anything they experienced on November 2nd. Remember that some people are extroverted and ready to talk about an experience immediately, while others need time to process and think. (You should do similar processing for all "big" or special events such as a mission trip, conference, rally, service project, etc.) To help support your local efforts, please remember that the diocese is working as well by posting on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram) and continuing to add new content to website created solely for DYC'14 follow up: http://youngstownDYC.weebly.com Life is filled with ups and downs, emotionally rewarding and draining, experiences. If we as ministers only get the teens to the 'highs' then we do a dis-service. We need to help them connect the "highs' to 'flat' and 'low' times. They need to be reminded of 'good times' to help carry them through the boring and 'bad times.' And, like our Amazing God, we must continue the faith journey with them! Emailed to those registered for the DYC'14 who provided email addresses
THANK YOU for registering for the 2014 Diocesan Youth Convention (or DYC'14) -- I am very excited about the 7 hours we will be spending together at St. Michael's in Canton. While that might sound like a long day with the added transportation time, I assure you that it will fly by as we have so many things packed into the day. It would be helpful to do a couple things in preparation for DYC'14: 1. Do not forget on Saturday, November 1st (All Saint's Day) that we FALL BACK on our clocks....so you will get an extra hour of sleep if you plan correctly! 2. Bring your donations for the Joshua Casteel Catholic Worker House if you are able to give. A list of needed ideas is posted at: http://youngstownoyyam.weebly.com/2014-diocesan-youth-convention.html You will be able to drop them off when you arrive at 12:30 p.m. next Sunday. 3. After you drop off your donations, you might also want to stop and pose for a group picture with the DYC'14 banner as your group leader picks up your event folders and name tags. You will then grab a string-backpack from one of the seminarians helping us that day and head into the Church. 4. Your group leader may have already shared with you the listing of workshop options, but if not (or if you want to look them over a bit more), know that they are posted on the website above, just click on the WORKSHOPS grey button near the top of the page. Remember that you will have TWO workshop times.....so pick your top 2, but pick two alternates as well in case you get closed out of a session (door will close once the seats are filled.) 5. After the workshops, alternating with your dinner time, you will have an opportunity to visit the AMAZING CONNECTIONS stations. Some are exhibits, but many include hands on activities and a chance to help others. Since time will be short, it might be a good idea to look over that listing on the website as well. While I should not pick favorites, as I am thankful for all of the wonderful volunteers who will be providing these stations, I do want to point out a few where your help is definitely needed, so try to get to these for sure and then others as they interest you: 1. Banner for Mass - we need at least one person from each parish to stop and decorate part of it for your parish as this banner will be used at our Mass. 2. Superhero Capes for Kids Project - we borrowed this idea from the NCYC in Indianapolis last year from Peyton Manning's Capes for Kids, with their permission to do for Children's Hospital here. Cara Lipinski and St. Barbara/St. Joseph in Massillon have donated materials to make this happen, but we need YOU to stop and make one or two! 3. Praying with Sign Language - the reflection song at Mass will be "Open My Eyes" which is pretty easy to learn in American Sign Language, so we brought this opportunity back upon request. Maybe you were at the Grotto event last September in Suffield and already learned this so just have to brush up, or maybe you need to stop by and learn it - either way, it will make the after-communion reflection even more meaningful if you Sign and SIGN it! 4. Project S.O.A.P. - we need every participant to stop and label 5 - 7 bars of soap for us (and learn why this is an important task!) 5. Inspiration Board - would love to have an many posts about what amazes you as possible so that we can share the inspiration with others. During your dinner break, know that a number of priests are coming to hang out AND celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation with anyone who would like. This week, take some time to reflect upon your relationship with God. Does it seem on track? If so, great, but if not, then pray about what God might want you to change, do differently, or stop doing. If you would like to do a deeper Examination of Conscience, please visit: http://catholiceducation.org/articles/education/ed0415.htm or http://www.usccb.org/prayer-and-worship/sacraments-and-sacramentals/penance/examination-conscience-in-light-of-catholic-social-teaching.cfm Lastly, if you are able to listen to the theme song prior to coming to the DYC, it might make it easier for you to sing along. On the DYC'14 website above (or below my signature line), click on the grey button "DYC'14 Theme Song/Fricker". Whew, that was perhaps more pre-event work than anticipated, but it really is all just to hep you get a jump start on our day together. If you don't get to it, no worries, but if you do, then you should be ready to jump in and get the most out of the opportunities presented! By 7:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 2nd, may we all be AMAZED because we better see "what is true, beautiful and what is of God!" C-U @ DYC'14 soon! Blessings, Cindee Case P.S. If you know of someone else coming to the DYC'14 that you don't think has an email address or didn't get registered by the deadline, feel free to share this with him/her. Perhaps you will have a chance to ask at Church this weekend or school on Monday! -- Cindee Case, Director Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry (OY&YAM) Catholic Diocese of Youngstown 144 West Wood Street, Youngstown, OH 44503 phone: 330-744-8451 X 280 fax: 330-744-5899 http://youngstownoyyam.weebly.com *** DYC'14 coming this November 2nd @ St. Michael in Canton.*** Keep up to date with the planning by visiting our webpage: http://youngstownoyyam.weebly.com/2014-diocesan-youth-convention.html 9/26/2014 A Year in Youth Ministry (One sample of calendar items to include in YOUR planning)Read NowOne Year in Youth Ministry: Listed are just a few things to be on the look-out for each month as well as some ministry ideas that fall into place at certain times. What would you add to the list? January · Happy New Year! Encourage youth and families to celebrate the New Year with Mass as it is a Holy Day of Obligation. · Epiphany is great time to encourage teens and families to share their gifts with Jesus by sharing with the community. · Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is a great time for service (perhaps before skiing, sledding, and other popular outdoor activities.) · March for Life in Washington, D.C. February · Eagle of the Cross nomination deadline · Summer trip planning for missions, work camps, conferences, etc. · Consider sending last year’s high school graduates a care package during Valentine’s month to them at college, military or even still at home working hard! March · Lenten activities – be sure the youth are included in larger parish offerings like a Parish Mission, Reconciliation Services, Stations of the Cross, etc. · Discuss our Lenten practices and see how well the teens can describe them (catechize where they need clearer understandings.) · Look for the NCYC information in odd-numbered years (registration packet, deposit due dates, etc.), or preliminary DYC info in even years. April · Usually Holy Week and Easter related activities – the most holy times of our Church. Do your teens/families participate in the Triduum events? How can you better include them? · Eagle of the Cross ceremony – Mass open to public, banquet by invitation only. May · Go to the Parish Ministers Spring Retreat · Blessing of Prom goers (and prayer for those not going to prom?) · Mother’s Day · Prayer before exams and ending of a school year · Pentecost – Happy Birthday Church – evangelize and share the Good News! June · Baccalaureate Mass for graduating seniors · Teens helping at Parish VBS program · Father’s Day July · Summer mission trip, conference, or other outing · Teens help at the parish picnic and/or county fair August · Back to school Blessing of students and teachers · Collect school supplies to donate to a Pack the Bus or similar project · Register for the NCCYM in December or the OCEA in October, as appropriate September · Parish Youth Ministry Report form completion · Look for Diocesan Youth Convention registration packets in even-numbered years. · Request tickets for the D.C. March for Life Youth Rally, if hoping to attend · Religious Education kick off – intentional catechesis done in CCD style or in mini-courses, LifeNites, home study, Generations of Faith, Bible studies, etc. October · In odd years, attend the Ohio Catholic Education Association (OCEA) Convention · Homecoming blessings – players, cheerleaders, band, etc., as well as court and dance-goers (alternate activity for those not wanting to go to dance?) · Local Celebration of World Youth Day on 30th Sunday of ordinary time (usually around Halloween) – how will your parish celebrate the gifts of our young members? · Look for a diocesan conference for you as a catechist/minister to attend. November · Diocesan Youth Convention OR National Catholic Youth Convention · Thanksgiving holidays December · In even years, attend the National Conference on Catholic Youth Ministry (NCCYM) · Advent activities – waiting in joyful hope! · Pray at the diocesan Advent Day of Reflection · Christmas activities – maybe your teens will take Giving Tree tags? Offer gift-wrapping or babysitting to help busy moms? Christmas Carol at a nursing home? While the component of Pastoral Care in ministries with youth is about helping to support healthy growth and development for the teen, often within a family setting, there can be times that we encounter youth with concerning situations. As trusting relationships build in ministry, we may find that people really open their hearts to us and share struggles that they are having personally or with a loved one. We might be told of substance abuse, addiction, unplanned pregnancy, depression, suicidal thoughts, physical abuse, neglect, violent behavior, excessive stress, bullying, rape, feelings of helplessness, serious parental conflict, and more. As caring people, we want to help....yet, when working with youth and families, it is important to recognize when you need to refer one for counseling. When you are in that situation, where do you call? Catholic Charities recently updated their list, so I am happy to share this with you to give you leads. I recommend that you give each place in your county a call and see how open they are (and welcoming they sound) for your referral needs. {See document below.} Also, be sure to see what resources you have in your own parish and a neighboring parish. Often psychologists, psychiatrists and counsels are members of our Churches. WHEN TO REFER David Switzer states that it is wise to refer when: 1. We simply don't understand what's going on with the other person, why the person feels and behaves as she/he does, even after we've had opportunity to talk with that persona bout what's going on. 2. We recognize that the person is psychotic or has a tenacious depression. 3. The person is suicidal or is making serious threats against someone else. 4. We suspect that the person may have some physical disorder, may need a physical examination, and/or may need medication. 5. A person is dependent on alcohol or some other chemical substance, including prescription drugs. 6. It had seemed as if this were a person appropriate to with with, but after a while we realize that no change is taking place, we're beginning to feel frustrated and we don't know what else to do. 7. We find ourselves beginning to shut the person out emotionally. 8. We feel consciously afraid because the person appears to be dangerous to us. 9. We feel angry at the person and aren't clear about the reason. 10. We want to take care of everything for the person and are not really helping the person to be responsible for him/herself. 11. We want to guard our relationship with the person and not let anyone else participate in significant helping with him/her. 12. The situation is primarily a family problem and the family pattern of interaction is complex. (Taken from Guides to Youth Ministry: Pastoral Care, edited by Sharon Reed) Thank you for all you do to help achieve Goal 3 of our framework for Catholic Youth Ministry:
(For more on this goal and the framework, visit this web page: http://www.usccb.org/about/laity-marriage-family-life-and-youth/young-adults/renewing-the-vision.cfm ) One of my favorite discussion starter stories (can be done with or without props, but does offer a simple visual): CHOOSE YOUR PATH... A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her. She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up. She was tired of fighting and struggling. It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose. Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water. In the first, she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans. She let them sit and boil without saying a word. In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners. She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl. Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what do you see?" "Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied. She brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they had gotten soft. She then asked her to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard-boiled egg. Finally, she asked her to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma, and then asked, "What's the point, Mother?" Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity - boiling water - but each reacted differently. > The carrot went in strong, hard and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak. > The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior. But, after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened. > The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water they had changed the water. "Which are you?" she asked her daughter. "When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond? Are you a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean?" Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity, do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength? Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and a hardened heart? Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hours are the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate to another level? How do you handle adversity? Related Scriptures: Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer. Romans 12:12 Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Proverbs 3: 5-6 More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance Romans 5: 3 I can do all things through him who strengthens me. Philippians 4: 13 Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go. Joshua 1: 9 But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me. 2 Corinthians 12: 9 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. Philippians 4: 6 Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything. James 1: 2 - 4 What additional scripture(s) came to your mind? (Please share in the comments below -- thanks!) May we all be like coffee when we find ourselves in hot water! |
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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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