Our Parish Youth Ministry Is Back To The Business Of Growing In Faith

Following a pandemic-induced hiatus, St. Patrick Youth Ministry is up and running full throttle! The kickoff began this summer with a block party attended by 35 parish teens, complete with Bingo, outdoor games, a photo booth, plenty of food and prizes, as well as night prayer.

“It was a great turnout of kids,” says youth minister Mary Zamora. “And it was so good to see so many come out after being gone for so long.”

Also this summer, the parish youth enjoyed a picnic day at Boykin Springs Recreation Area. They continue to build relationships and are revamping the upcoming calendar. Mary is excited to once again offer service opportunities and attend the diocesan youth conference.

“For me, it was hard not to be present with the kids,” she says. “It just goes to show you that it is easy to take for granted human interaction and that we need other people to help us walk on our faith journey.”

Despite working full-time and caring for two small children, Mary finds the time to faithfully volunteer alongside her husband, Miguel. The couple has been directing the youth for over five years — they look forward to every youth event and feel edified by the shared experience. Having both attended the program as teens, they hope to pass on a love and knowledge of the Catholic faith to future generations.

“It helps me grow in my faith when I see them working and growing in the knowledge of Catholicism,” Mary says. “It touches my heart to see them so involved and so willing to learn more. It keeps me going and encourages me to find new ways to help and reach them.”

Moving forward, the youth group will meet every Sunday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Youth Room of the Faith Formation Building. All teens from eighth to 12th grades are invited to attend. Meetings consist of an icebreaker game followed by catechetical instruction and “hang-out” time. There are occasional outdoor activities, such as scavenger hunts, as well as movie and pizza nights.

Whether you are a curious youth or an enthusiastic volunteer, St. Patrick Youth Group would love to see you at the next meeting. It is so great to be back!

The invitation to get involved extends beyond our teens. Volunteers are always welcome! Interested volunteers can contact Mary Zamora at 936-414-9768 or by email at mwallace9158@gmail.com. All that is necessary is a willing heart, a short ethics training class provided by the diocese, and a background check.

The youth group will meet every Sunday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Youth Room of the Faith Formation Building. All teens from eighth to 12th grades are invited to attend.

The youth group will meet every Sunday evening from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Youth Room of the Faith Formation Building. All teens from eighth to 12th grades are invited to attend.