LifeSavers is . . .

TO		Youth . . .	responding to youth's varied needs
WITH		Youth . . .	working with adults to fulfill their common responsibility for the Church's mission
BY		Youth . . .	exercising their own ministry to others: peers, community, world
FOR		Youth . . .	interpreting the needs of youth, especially in areas of injustice and acting on behalf of, or with youth for a change in the systems which create injustice

(From "Vision of Youth Ministry" USCC: 1976)

In 1996 the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) published Renewing the Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry (RTV). This document affirms a previous document drafted by the USCCB in the mid 1970's, A Vision for Youth Ministry. In RTV, the Bishops outline very clear goals and objectives which are to be a part of ANY Catholic youth ministry program, whether in a parish or in a Catholic school.

Our new high school youth program follows the guidance of the USCCB, and encompasses the two main objectives of youth ministry: catechesis and discipleship.

Catechesis is an important part of the Catholic faith life. We must continue to catechize our youth, even beyond the Sacrament of Confirmation, just as adults and Catholics of all ages must continue to learn and grow in the faith.

Discipleship

Jesus did not lead a sedentary life. He continued to teach and model His entire life on earth. As we learn from scripture, just as He has done for us, so we "should also do". Just as catechesis is important to understand the faith and continue to grow in it, so too, is discipleship important to keep us connected to one another, and to continue in the pursuit of Christ.

Catechesis – “Life Nights”:  Our traditional Sunday evening youth gatherings will be focus the youth on various aspects of our Catholic Faith, by applying the basic teachings of the faith to situations they experience everyday as teenagers.  This is accomplished through large group teaching and activities, as well as small group discussions.  In addition to catechesis, fun and fellowship are also major components of our Life Nights.

Discipleship – “Youth Council”:  Wednesday evenings will be focused on discipleship through peer-to-peer ministry.  Through small group discussion, the teens are able to explore aspects of the Catholic faith at a deeper, more personal level.  Also at these Wednesday evening gatherings, the youth take a more evangelistic role in doing outreach projects.

We encourage all youth to attend the Life Nights on Sunday evenings, which is the main element of our high school youth ministry program.  It is a wonderful opportunity to get to know their larger peer group.  All youth are invited to attend both programs to get a deeper faith experience.

To learn more about LifeSavers, you may contact the Youth Director at ext.2228.