YEAR FOR YOUTH
August
22, 2011 to August 22, 2012 has been declared by the Diocese as the
year for youth. When we set a theme for a year, such as the year for
the Priest, Marian year, etc. it means that we put special focus on its
meaning for the life of the parish and the Church. Year for youth calls
us as a parish to give special attention to the youth of our parish.
The
challenges and problems our youth deal with today are different than
those of the older generation and parents have a tougher job in helping
their children meet these challenges. I think that these challenges
stem from some basic questions that young people are asking themselves
in a culture which seems to becoming more and more complex and diverse, a
culture in which our young people tend to feel insecure and have
growing doubts about their future. Some questions might be: "What is
going to become of me and how am I going to see and manage my life in
this cultural complexity? Who is God in my life? Why am I Catholic and
what meaning does the Catholic Church actually have in my life?
The
responsibility of walking with our youth in not just that of our
religious education and youth ministry teams. It is the responsibility
of the whole parish. I have talked with Chis Perez who is willing to
spearhead a program. This will be a process and will require the
cooperation and involvement of the parish. The Pastoral Council needs
to address this need. When a feasible plan is agreed upon, it will be
announced.
The Hispanic community has already begun addressing
the youth. They have begun a youth Mass once a month and are also
planning for more involvement with our youth. We are also planning for a
youth Mass in English.
I hope the parish will take seriously the
call to address the needs of our youth in this parish. The future of
America and the Church depends on them.
God's continual blessings upon all our youth and our families.
Fr. Neil
Words from Bishop Barnes regarding the Year of Youth