“Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. And everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on them will be like a fool who built his house on sand. The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined.” When Jesus finished these words, the crowds were astonished at his teaching, for he taught them as one having authority, and not as their scribes. -Matthew 7:24-29

Basic tips start a youth group Finalize vision with core Brand your ministry Plan out consistency of gatherings (once a month recommended to start) Pick a day and time to gather Come up with a theme for the year Plan an epic kickoff for the beginning of the year Create a communications plan Make a basic plan for all of your gatherings for the year Communicate with religious ed or any other ministries to discuss any possible overlap Communicate with other parishes about any potential joint events

Types of Youth Gatherings Social – events that are mainly social in nature and are focused on the pre-evanglization stage through fun and community Catechetical – events that focus on a topic on faith through presenting the topic in am interactive and dynamic way Issue – events that focus on current issues that teens may be experiencing or questioning Service – events that provide opportunities for service. These can be incorporated into catechetical or issue nights

Sample Calendar Theme: “Rooted” September: Kickoff Night! – BBQ with backyard games tournament and prizes October: Catechetical – Rooted in Identity - Who am I? What is my purpose? Capture the Flag November: Catechetical Night – Building the Kingdom/Rooted in the Church Building contest December: Social Night – Trip to LaSalette January: Issue Night – Dignity of the Human Person February: Catechetical/Service – Rooted in Service/Valentine’s Day service project March: Social Night – Joint social with neighboring parish April: Catechetical – Rooted in Truth/Q&A Night Dodgeball May: Catechetical – Rooted in Prayer Adoration/Confession June: Social Night – End of Year bonfire!