YOUTH MINISTRY: A Place for Authentic Connections in Christ

There is no doubt our faith is meant to be lived in community. Jesus made it clear, as written in the Book of Matthew — “for where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them” (Matthew 18:20).

Middle and high school students from our parishes have the opportunity to gather with other like-minded students to enjoy youth group. Youth group is from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on the first, third, and fifth Wednesdays at St. Jude Thaddeus and on the second and fourth Wednesdays at Christ the King. All are welcome at both locations!

Angelica Ramos is one of the newly hired adult leaders for the ministry. She was involved in youth ministry as a teen, and it made a significant impact on her life. She wanted to pay that forward to other teens and young adults.

“When I was younger, I remember getting to a point when my head was full of questions about the Catholic faith,” Angelica says. “Youth nights is where I’d lay all the questions on the table, and they were some of the best conversations I’ve had.”

When Angelica heard about the job opening for this ministry, she didn’t think twice before applying. She appreciates how being involved is helping her grow in faith — right alongside the youth.

Angelica looks forward to having similar conversations to what she had at that age with the youth here at our parishes. Each youth group event starts with an ice-breaker game, followed by a short discussion on the night’s topic. Then, attendees watch a video and break into small groups for discussion. They end with a conversation about the topic as a large group. Food is included at every event.

Youth Ministry doesn’t just offer a way to grow in faith — it’s also a valuable opportunity to meet other Catholic youth striving for holiness.

“It’s not like sitting in a classroom and learning a lesson,” Angelica says. “The core team makes these nights so much fun while also teaching about our faith.”

Angelica loves seeing the youth engage with the night’s topic.

“It shows that they want to understand and learn about our faith, and it means that they are comfortable being able to ask questions,” she says.

Angelica hopes youth will step outside of their comfort zones and give youth group a try — you won’t be disappointed! She also asks parents to talk to their child about attending.

Middle and high school students — you are invited to check out youth group from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on the first, third and fifth Wednesdays at St. Jude Thaddeus and on the second and fourth Wednesdays at Christ the King.