Middle school can be rough. Between pressures to fit in, have the right friends, get good grades, excel in sports, etc., teens today are overwhelmed with expectations and activities and are busier than ever. When schedules get maxed out, there is now a growing trend to drop the one thing that will enrich our souls and give us rest: Going to church and learning about our Catholic faith.
Jesus says to us, “Come to me all you that are weary and are carrying heavy burdens, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me; for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light” (Matt. 11:28-30, NRSV).
All 6th through 8th grade youth are invited find rest for your soul with faith, fun, and friendship at one of our Youth Ministry meetings or events. Want your student to get involved, but don’t know where to start? Contact our Director of Youth Ministry, Jesus Gonzalez at youthministry@stmarymtangel.org or 503-845-4279, and he’ll get you started.
Every other Wednesday 6:30pm – 7:30pm
Youth Ministry meetings are a time of connecting with other youth, learning more about our Catholic faith, and discussing current challenges teens face today.
It is a place to ask tough questions, seek support and grow closer to Christ.
WEDNESDAYS: Grades 6-8. Connect! Bringing Faith to Life is a 3-year interactive program that presents the core teachings of the Catholic faith to young people (sixth, seventh and eighth graders) in a way that helps them connect learning with living. Active, engaging lessons encourage honest reflection and meaning-making. Using an accompaniment model of forming young people in the faith, this program meets them where they are and makes important, relevant connections that bring faith to life. Each year the program explores the four doctrinal pillars of the Catholic faith--the Creed, Liturgy and Sacraments, Christian Morality and Justice, and Prayer. Within this framework, the program also offers chapters that are dedicated to a solid understanding of the Bible. One student book for a 3-year program! Purchase of print book includes eLearning lessons for all three years.
Youth Group: Meets every Wednesday from 6:30-7:30pm.
Youth Ministry Calendar (click here for full calendar)
Higher Calling Ropes Camp: Open to incoming 6th grade - outgoing HS grads, Higher Calling Ropes Camp is held at Camp Yamhill each August. Students get to experience both low and high ropes elements, and have the opportunity to grow in friendship as they return each year. This is an experience you won't want to miss! See http://www.hcropescamp.com/ for more information.
Whether facing challenges at home, peer pressure or transitioning to high school, youth are more likely to stick to their values and continue in their faith tradition when they are supported by like-minded friends and community. Yes, we teach and instruct, but we do it in the community because that is how Christ taught his Disciples. We aren’t meant to grow alone. Have questions, suggestions, or want to get involved? Please don’t hesitate to contact Jesus Gonzalez at youthministry@stmarymtangel.org