THE YOUNG ADULT MINISTRY: Bringing the Faith Alive and Building Real Relationships

It seems to happen naturally in parishes — there is a youth group for the youth and then a Bible study group that mainly appeals to those who are middle-aged and older. So, we don’t want to miss the chance of ministering to young adults, single or married, ages 18 to 35. This age range remains an important time to build a faith community.

Tayler Culbertson, our Youth and Young Adult Ministry Coordinator, leads and organizes the Young Adult Ministry (YAM) with four other young adults. This fall, YAM held a wildly successful Fall Festival for young adults and young families. There was food, a band, games, and time to socialize. Tayler is enthusiastic about the turnout for this first year of the event — about 80 adults were there along with 10 children.

“This was the largest event we have hosted, and it was extremely successful,” she says. “We hope to do it annually. It was so fulfilling to see young adults coming together to meet one another.”

YAM’s mission is “to build strong stewardship communities of young adults who are in love with Jesus Christ and who are committed to serving Him in the Church and in the world.” The goal of YAM is to create space for men and women to grow in faith and build authentic relationships. They meet several times per month for socializing, volunteer projects, and faith nights. The group hopes to go on a mission trip this spring or summer.

With all the temptations and bad influences out in the world, YAM is a place to connect over something positive and life-giving. Members have learned new ways to pray and have discussed various faith topics.

“Mainly, the group evangelizes through the community and encountering Christ in that community and in one another,” Tayler says.

As Tayler points out, this group provides a way for young adults to know they are not alone in practicing the Catholic faith.

“This group allows people to provide wisdom to one another, hold each other accountable, pray with one another, and more,” Tayler says.

In turn, ministry members are getting more involved in the parish as a result of being involved with YAM, with some teaching Confirmation and assisting with Youth Ministry programs.

Coordinating this group is part of Tayler’s job, but she also loves attending. She has made so many friends and looks forward to all future events.

Young adults may learn more by emailing Tayler Culbertson at youthandyoungadutcoordinator@saintphilipneri.org or following the group on Instagram — @spnyoungadultsministry. The ministry also has a GroupMe chat account.

The Young Adult Ministry’s Fall Fest event was a huge success.