DOMUS: Building Parish Youth Ministries
WHY IS PARISH YOUTH MINISTRY IMPORTANT?
Adolescence is an important moment in the faith life! “the chance of a young person continuing to practice Catholicism into emerging adulthood depends to a large extent on his or her connections to Catholicism (through relationships, practices, and identity) during adolescence.” Smith et al., Young Catholic America, 66
Youth bring a vibrancy to the Church! We need their energy, enthusiasm, and creativity! Historically, young people have been sources of great passion in our Church. Think about a young Mary who said “yes!,” Timothy who proclaimed the Word, Saints Edward, Joan of Arc, and Charles Lwanga who all died for the faith!
Youth deserve the best we have! “You, dear young [person], have you ever felt the gaze of everlasting love upon you, a gaze that looks beyond your sins, limitations and failings, and continues to have faith in you and to look upon your life with hope?” Pope Francis
WHAT IS DOMUS AND HOW CAN IT HELP US?
In the book of Kings, God asks Solomon to build a house for Him – a place where He can reside with His people. Domus; Latin for home, is about building Catholic youth ministries that do two things: 1) create with youth a home in their hearts for Christ; and 2) create with communities a spiritual home.
Our staff, through the DOMUS process will work closely with your parish/cluster to:
- Recruit, build, and guide an effective leadership team
- Assess your communities needs, hopes, and gifts
- Create a vision and plan for long-term success
- Create a vision and plan for long-term success
- Mentor your team as they implement and build youth ministry programs in your community
The full DOMUS process includes:
- Accompaniment by one of the OYMNY staff
- Four full-day training sessions for your entire team
- Resources and tools for your ministry