St. Anthony Youth Ministry Information Guide - English 2021-2022

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St. Anthony Youth Ministry Information Guide - English 2021-2022
St. Anthony Youth Ministry
Information Guide – English
        2021-2022
St. Anthony Youth Ministry Information Guide - English 2021-2022
“Verso l’alto.”1
                                         Bl. Pier Giorgio Frassati

    1From Frassati USA: https://frassatiusa.org/verso-lalto (Accessed March 9, 2021)

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St. Anthony Youth Ministry Information Guide - English 2021-2022
Contents
Confirmation Formation ................................................................................................... 6
  Confirmation Year 1 Sessions ................................................................................................... 7
     Fee Schedule for Confirmation Year 1 Sessions ......................................................................................... 8
  Confirmation Year 2 Sessions ................................................................................................... 9
     Fee Schedule for Confirmation Year 2 ........................................................................................................ 10
  Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis .................................................................................. 11
     Resources for Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis .......................................................................... 12
     Fee Schedule for Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis .................................................................... 13
  Information for All Year 2 Candidates .................................................................................. 14
High School Ministry ....................................................................................................... 16
  Life Nights ................................................................................................................................ 17
     Fee Schedule for Life Nights ........................................................................................................................... 18
  Servant-Leadership Program for Youth ................................................................................ 19
Auxiliary Youth Ministry Events/Retreats..................................................................... 20
  Auxiliary Youth Ministry Events/Retreats ............................................................................. 21
Youth Ministry Evangelization ....................................................................................... 22

   St. Anthony Youth Ministry inspires transformational growth in youth through
                   experiences of God’s compassionate love.

                                                               We do so by …

      Fostering                               Promoting an                           Inspiring a Thirst                         Communicating
     Community                                Active Faith                               for Truth                             God’s Love to All
                                                                                                                                    People

  Requests to register are accepted throughout the year, but your family must be registered with
                          the parish to participate as we maintain records:
                          Matthew DePaula, Youth Ministry Coordinator
                                    matthew@saint-anthony.com
                                      972-442-2765, ext. 1006

                                                                                                                                                              3
St. Anthony Youth Ministry Information Guide - English 2021-2022
4
“Prayer is a surge of the
                                   heart, it is a simple look
                                  turned toward heaven ...”2
                                       St. Thérèse of Liseux

2From Jesuit Resource: https://www.xavier.edu/jesuitresource/online-resources/quote-archive1/quotes-about-
prayer (Accessed March 9, 2021)

                                                                                                             5
Confirmation Formation

Two-year process of formation, including service opportunities, learning
 about Catholic discipleship, and practicing prayer, that prepares young
 disciples to receive the sacrament of Confirmation and, if needed, First
                               Communion.
    There are two models: Parish Sessions and Home-Based Catechesis.
     Information particular to Second-Year candidates, regardless of
                formation model, is provided on page 13.

6
Confirmation Year 1 Sessions
           Meeting Time: Every Other Wednesday Night from 7:15 PM – 8:45 PM
                        Primary Location: Father Pondant Hall (FPH)
                                       Serves Grades 7-11
                                   Required Texts:
             YOUCAT (purchased with registration and given at the first session)
Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth (purchased with registration and given at the first session)
                     YM Resource Book (given at the first session)
                          Bible (purchasing options available)

   •   In this model, youth are grouped into small groups by gender and grade led by two cleared
       adults over the age of twenty-one (no more than 15 peers)
            a. Group leaders will provide the lesson and facilitate activities and discussion based on
                the topic of the day
   •   Parents play a vital role during the formation for Confirmation and as such are invited to
       attend alongside their candidate
            a. The main room will have a portion with chairs to allow parents to sit during the
                opening before the candidates leave with their group for lessons
            b. A parent-oriented lesson and discussion based on the topic will be provided in FPH
                after the candidates leave along with the opportunity for fellowship
   •   Session Schedule
            a. 7:15 PM – Opening Activity
            b. 7:35 PM – Quick, light snack
            c. 7:45 PM – Opening prayer, lesson preview, saint of the month, and announcements
            d. 8:00 PM – Small Groups go to Saint Paul Hall (SPH), parents group for fellowship
            e. 8:45 PM – Session concludes
   •   Sessions begin September 8, 2021 and the final session is April 27, 2022
            a. A calendar with all dates is provided upon registration
   •   Volunteer Opportunities
            a. Small Group Leader: Lead lesson, group activity, and discussion among candidates
                      i. You may be invited to lead saint of the month and opening activity
            b. Hospitality: Help setup the session prior to its start
            c. Parent Fellowship Leader: Lead lesson and discussion among parents
                      i. Bilingual (English/Spanish) is helpful; lesson materials and sample lessons
                         provided
                     ii. You may be invited to lead saint of the month
            d. Hall Monitors: Ensure the safety of all youth groups meeting in SPH
            e. Translation Services: Provide translation of the opening prayer, lesson preview,
                saint of the month, and announcements
                      i. A transmitter sends sound to parents using receptor packs and headphones to
                         listen; you will be stationed at the back of the hall able to listen to the hall
                         sound feed and speak into a microphone connected to the transmitter
                     ii. A script is provided using auto-translation on Word/Google Translate
            f. If you are interested in any of these volunteer areas, please contact the St. Anthony
                Youth Ministry Office: matthew@saint-anthony.com / 972-442-2765, ext. 1006

                                                                                                        7
Fee Schedule for Confirmation Year 1 Sessions
                            CY1 Sessions Fee Breakdown for 2021-2022
            Item                               What You Pay Total*
            YOUCAT Book                                    $    19.95           $            1,097.25
            Catholic Faith Handbook                        $    29.95           $            1,647.25
            Handbook for Leaders                           $      5.45          $              299.75
            Music for Adoration                            $      1.37          $               75.35
            Deacon for Adoration                           $      0.91          $               50.05
            Snacks for Session                             $      2.72          $              149.60
            Supplies for YM                                $      2.40          $              132.00
            Vol. Appreciation Dinner                       $      2.25          $              123.75
            *based on 55 registrations                     $    65.00           $            3,575.00

                     CY1 Sessions Fee Breakdown for 2021-2022
                                               4%     4%
                                    1%    4%

                                     2%
                                                                                  31%

                               8%

                                                46%

                   YOUCAT Book                 Catholic Faith Handbook    Handbook for Leaders
                   Music for Adoration         Deacon for Adoration       Snacks for Session
                   Supplies for YM             Vol. Appreciation Dinner

    Notes: Technology includes software used to ensure the efficient, effective, and productive coordination of a
    ministry serving around 180 youth with over 30 volunteers.

    Volunteer Appreciation Dinner = $600 ($400 from all youth in Youth Ministry; $200 from parish)

8
Confirmation Year 2 Sessions
                Meeting Time: Every Other Sunday* Afternoon from 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
                         Primary Meeting Location: Father Pondant Hall (FPH)
                                            Serves Grades 8-12
                                           Required Texts:
                                YM Resource Book (given at first session)
                                  Bible (purchasing options available)

        •  In this model, youth are grouped into small groups by gender and grade led by two cleared
           adults over the age of twenty-one (no more than 15 peers)
                a. Group leaders will provide the lesson and facilitate activities and discussion based on
                    the topic of the day
       • Holy Spirit Cup
                a. Groups will be given the challenge to take lessons home by completing tasks and
                    submitting worksheets – occasionally, sessions or challenges may offer bonus points!
                b. The winning group is announced at the last session and wins a prize for each member
       • Parents play a vital role during the formation for Confirmation and as such are invited to
           attend alongside their candidate
                a. The main room will have a portion with chairs to allow parents to sit during the
                    opening before the candidates leave with their group for lessons
                b. A parent-oriented lesson and discussion based on the topic will be provided in FPH
                    after the candidates leave along with the opportunity for fellowship
       • Session Schedule
                a. 2:30 PM – Opening Activity
                b. 2:45 PM – Opening prayer, lesson preview, saint of the month, and announcements
                c. 3:00 PM – Small Groups go to Saint Paul Hall (SPH), parents group for fellowship
                d. 4:00 PM – Session concludes
       • Sessions begin September 19, 2021 and the final session is May 1, 2022
                a. A calendar with all dates is provided upon registration
       • Volunteer Opportunities
                a. Small Group Leader: Lead lesson, group activity, and discussion among candidates
                          i. You may be invited to lead saint of the month and opening activity
                b. Hospitality: Help setup the session prior to its start
                c. Parent Fellowship Leader: Lead lesson and discussion among parents
                          i. Bilingual preferred; lesson materials and sample lessons provided
                         ii. You may be invited to lead saint of the month
                d. Hall Monitors: Ensure the safety of all youth groups meeting in SPH
                e. Translation Services: Provide translation of the opening prayer, lesson preview,
                    saint of the month, and announcements
                          i. A transmitter sends sound to parents using receptor packs and headphones to
                             listen; you will be stationed at the back of the hall able to listen to the hall
                             sound feed and speak into a microphone connected to the transmitter
                         ii. A script is provided using auto-translation on Word/Google Translate
                f. If you are interested in any of these volunteer areas, please contact the St. Anthony
                    Youth Ministry Office: matthew@saint-anthony.com / 972-442-2765, ext. 1006
*Due to Thanksgiving and Christmas Breaks, the December Sessions (5 and 12) are consecutive.

                                                                                                            9
Fee Schedule for Confirmation Year 2
                            CY2 Sessions Fee Breakdown for 2021-2022
           Item                                What You Pay Total*
           Confirmation Masses                          $        28.00         $           1,540.00
           Supplies for YM                              $        32.47         $           1,785.85
           Music for Adoration                          $         1.37         $                75.35
           Deacon for Adoration                         $         0.91         $                50.05
           Vol. Appreciation Dinner                     $         2.25         $              123.75
           *based on 55 registrations                   $        65.00         $           3,575.00

                     CY2 Sessions Fee Breakdown for 2021-2022
                                                 1%     4%
                                            2%

                                                                                        43%

                            50%

                   Confirmation Masses         Supplies for YM            Music for Adoration
                   Deacon for Adoration        Vol. Appreciation Dinner

 Notes: When you register, there will be an option to pre-pay for the Confirmation 2022 retreat planned by St.
 Anthony Youth Ministry

 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner = $600 ($400 from all youth in Youth Ministry; $200 from parish)

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Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis
 The Home-Based Catechesis model allows candidates to be taught at home and may provide a
   better environment for formation, such as youth who may not learn as well in a large group
 setting, need a tailored pace set by their parents, or other legitimate family or personal reasons.
    There are many advantages to Home-Based Catechesis, but the responsibility of the parent
  (home-based catechist) cannot be underestimated – you are leading and ensuring the ongoing
                                    formation of your candidate.
A. Under no circumstances should a home-based catechist teach children other than their
   own children in a home setting.

       a. Excepting parents who are teachers at a Home School Academy or Co-Op

B. For purposes of record-keeping, the home-based catechist will submit copies of the
   candidate’s assignments as proof of ongoing monthly formation

       a. There are 2 ways to submit a candidate’s work:
               i. Scanned Copies of worksheets can be sent to matthew@saint-anthony.com
              ii. An appointment can be booked to present the worksheets in person (if your
                   candidate comes, we will also discuss the worksheets and progress)
             iii. For adaptive kit learners, home-based catechists are requested to book an
                   appointment, preferably with their candidate, to discuss and show formation
                   progress
       b. The Youth Ministry Office will remind home-based catechists each month and may
          notify them if there have been no submissions over consecutive months
       c. Since it is the responsibility of home-based catechists to lead and ensure the
          ongoing formation of their candidate(s), the Youth Ministry Office bears little to
          no responsibility if a home-based catechists fails to complete their role.
               i. To help home-based catechists fulfill their role, the Youth Ministry
                   Coordinator provides one-on-one coaching with home-based catechists on an
                   appointment-by-appointment basis

C. Candidates participating in a Home School Academy or Co-Op with religious coursework
   may use the coursework as proof of formation or an agreement may be met with a teacher to
   provide confirmation of attendance.

                                                                                                   11
Resources for Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis
There are 3 main resources that you can use and are purchased with your registration fees. There is a
                       resource for candidates needing adaptive formation.

Confirmed in the Spirit by Loyola Press: https://www.loyolapress.com/faith-formation/sacramental-
preparation/confirmed-in-the-spirit/
    • Designed as a one-year program
    • Bilingual Option – English/Spanish
    • Online Catechist and Candidate Resources
    • Scope and Sequence Guide

Called to Mercy by Saint Mary’s Press: https://www.calledtomercy.com/
    • Designed as a one-year program
    • Completely Online with HD Videos, Progress Tracking, and Document Download
    • Includes a Sponsor Course and Curriculum
    • Potential for In-Person Sessions
           o May be utilized if a significant number of candidates in the same candidacy year are
               using this resource

The Sacrament of Confirmation by Rev. James Socias and the Midwest Theological Forum:
https://www.theologicalforum.org/Category/129/Product/569/The_Sacrament_of_Confirmation
    • Designed as a one-year program
    • Part of The Didache Series
    • Includes a Presenter’s Guide
           o Opening Prayer, Focal Points, and Key Vocabulary with Definitions
           o Activities
           o Answers to the Study Questions
    • Includes Activities with Parents and Sponsors, Sacred Art, and Numerous Saints and Blesseds

Adaptive Confirmation Preparation Kit by Loyola Press: https://www.loyolapress.com/faith-
formation/special-needs/adaptive-learning-kits/confirmation-about/
    • Designed as a one-year program, but can be extended up to two depending on a candidate’s needs
    • Large, easy-to-read text with friendly, simple pictures
    • Available in English and Spanish
    • Backpack to Easily Transport Components Wherever
    • Hands-on and Interactive Components
            o Baptismal Promises Puzzle
            o Toss and Tell Ball
    • Conducive for a Variety of Learners
            o I Do Card for those with limited or no spoken language
            o I Am a Disciple Flip Book
            o I Receive Confirmation Story
            o My Confirmation Songs CD
    • Helper Guide that explains each component, how to use the kit, and ideas to tailor the formation
        to meet your candidate’s learning style

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Fee Schedule for Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis
   Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis Fee                               Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis Fee
          Breakdown for 2021-2022                                               Breakdown for 2021-2022
Item                           Amount                                   Item                      Amount
Confirmed y Loyola                              $      59.90            Adaptive Learning Kit by
Vol. Appreciation Dinner                        $       2.25            Loyola                     $    40.00
Supplies for YM                                 $       2.85            Vol. Appreciation Dinner                  $        2.25
                                                $      65.00            Supplies for YM                           $       19.75
                                                                        Tech for Ministry                         $        3.00

  Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis Fee                                                                          $       65.00
         Breakdown for 2021-2022
Item                                            Amount                  Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis Fee
Called to Mercy                                 $      39.90                     Breakdown for 2021-2022
Vol. Appreciation Dinner                        $        2.25           Item                          Amount
Supplies for YM                                 $      19.20            The Sacrament of Confirmation
Tech for Ministry                               $        3.65           (Midwest)                     $  58.00
                                                                        Vol. Appreciation Dinner                      $         2.25
                                                $      65.00
                                                                        Supplies for YM                               $         1.75
    Confirmation Home-Based Catechesis Fee                              Tech for Ministry                             $         3.00
            Breakdown for 2021-2022
                                                                                                                      $      65.00
(if enrolled in a Home School Academy/Co-Op)
Item                             Amount
                                                                       Notes: Supplies for the ministry includes office
Vol. Appreciation Dinner                        $       2.25           supplies to maintain records as well as other
Supplies for YM                                 $      19.10           necessary items to ensure a successful ministry for
                                                                       all participants.
Tech for Ministry                               $       3.65
                                                                       Technology includes software used to ensure the
                                                $      25.00           efficient, effective, and productive coordination of a
   ministry serving around 180 youth with over 30 volunteers.

       Volunteer Appreciation Dinner - There are auxiliary volunteers who helps with clerical work, such as filing for
       ministry participants and Spanish translation of resources, which are made available to all youth ministry
       participants regardless of their formation model. The total portion for youth ministry is $600 ($400 from all youth
       in Youth Ministry; $200 from parish).

       Year 2 - When you register, there will be an option to pre-pay for the Confirmation 2022 retreat planned by St.
       Anthony Youth Ministry.

                                                                                                                           13
Information for All Year 2 Candidates
•  A Confirmation Packet will need to be completed that contains
               ▪ Information for the Confirmation Certificate and Sacramental Register,
                  Sponsor Worksheets, Instructions for a Saint Report, Guidelines for a Letter to
                  the Bishop, Service Log, and Service Reflection Worksheets
               ▪ If submitted using Google Docs, please allow our Gmail,
                  sta.ym404@gmail.com, access to the document
      o Retreats will be offered at various times during the year
• Road to Emmaus – Confirmation Readiness Discussion
      o One-on-one discussion between a catechist and candidate about the formation journey
               ▪ Preparation guide with discussion format sent early in the spring semester
               ▪ Parent may attend as a silent witness
      o Parish Session Candidates: Discussion will happen during the final session
      o Home-Based Candidates: You will sign-up for a time slot to meet with the Youth
          Ministry Coordinator
• For those needing First Communion
      o Additional formation* will be provided to complete at home
• Notes about the Mass
      o All candidates are encouraged to receive Reconciliation prior to their
          Confirmation
               ▪ Given the numerous opportunities at our own church and parishes in the area,
                  parents are responsible for helping their candidate receive Reconciliation
               ▪ There will not be a specific Reconciliation opportunity for all candidates in
                  the months leading to the Confirmation Masses
      o Two Masses is the default for which we plan as of 2021-2022
               ▪ Dependent on the number of candidates
               ▪ Assignment to a Mass is based solely on the candidates’ last names so that
                  each Mass has 50% of the candidates
      o Dates are set in the year prior and communicated from the point of registration
               ▪ Dates and times are subject to change depending on bishop availability and
                  assignment
      o Information regarding the Masses will be sent as soon as plans are ready
               ▪ Typically, this is in March following Wylie ISD Spring Break
      o Pictures
               ▪ A professional photographer will be taking group pictures; no other person is
                  to be taking pictures inside the church during the Mass.
      o Confirmation Certificate
               ▪ Candidates will receive their certificates in a packet prior to the Mass.
*Formation First Communion
• In the last few months before receiving Confirmation, your candidate will be sent formation
   material reviewing the Eucharist and Reconciliation:
      o Dynamic Catholic’s Blessed resource for First Communion
      o Two videos on the Eucharist and two videos on Reconciliation
      o An Examination of Conscience
      o Worksheet reviewing the important aspects of the sacraments and indicating when
          your candidate first received Reconciliation (or the last time they recall going)
14
“We unite ourselves with Christ’s redemptive work
          when we reconcile, when we make peace, when we share
          the good news that God is in our lives, when we reflect
              to our brothers and sisters God’s healing, God’s
                  forgiveness, God’s unconditional love.”3
                    Servant of God Sister Thea Bowman

3From Sister Thea Bowman, Cause for Canonization: https://www.sistertheabowman.com/biography/
(Accessed March 9, 2021)

                                                                                                15
High School Ministry

16
Life Nights
                    Meeting Time: Every Sunday* Night from 6:45 PM – 8:45 PM
                        Primary Meeting Location: Father Pondant Hall (FPH)
                                          Serves Grades 9-12
                                         Required Texts:
                              YM Resource Book (given at first session)
                                Bible (purchasing options available)

    •   In this model, youth are grouped into small groups by gender and grade led by two cleared adults
        over the age of twenty-one (no more than 15 peers)
    •   Session Schedule
             a. 6:45 PM – Opening Activity
             b. 7:00 PM – Dinner and Announcements
             c. 7:20 PM – Pre-Lesson Group Discussion
             d. 7:35 PM – Group Lesson with Integrated Discussion and/or Interactive Elements
             e. 7:55 PM – Small Group Time: Discussion, Conversation, and Community Building
             f. 8:30 PM – Music and Ending Prayer
             g. 8:45 PM – Session Concludes
    •   Sessions begin September 12, 2021 and the final session is May 1, 2022
             a. A calendar with all dates is provided upon registration
    •   Volunteer Opportunities
             a. Small Group Leader: Lead discussion among youth in a small group setting.
                          i. You may be invited to lead an opening activity and/or a portion of or an
                             entire lesson
             b. Hospitality: Help setup the session prior to its start
             c. Chef Master: Prepare a meal on a scheduled night
                          i. Timing and coordination discussed two weeks ahead of an assigned session
                         ii. Shared calendar for easy substituting if an emergency arises
                        iii. Youth are surveyed early in the year to determine cuisine interests
             d. If you are interested in any of these volunteer areas, please contact the St. Anthony
                 Youth Ministry Office: matthew@saint-anthony.com / 972-442-2765, ext. 1006

*Breaks are highlighted on the calendar

                                                                                                      17
Fee Schedule for Life Nights

                            Life Nights Fee Breakdown for 2021-2022
                       Item                      You Pay      Total*
                       Dinners                                $ 20.00             $   600.00
                       Supplies for YM                        $    8.08           $   242.40
                       Vol. Appreciation Dinner               $    2.25           $    67.50
                       Tech for Ministry                      $    3.00           $    90.00
                       Music for Adoration                    $ 10.00             $   300.00
                       Deacon for Adoration                   $    1.67           $    50.10
                       YM Resource Book                       $ 10.00             $   300.00
                       Guest Speaker                          $ 10.00             $   300.00
                       *based on 30 registrations             $ 65.00             $ 1,950.00

                        Life Nights Fee Breakdown for 2021-2022
                                              15%

                                                                             31%

                                     15%

                                        3%

                                                                            12%
                                             15%
                                                             5%       4%

                    Dinners                     Supplies for YM             Vol. Appreciation Dinner
                    Tech for Ministry           Music for Adoration         Deacon for Adoration
                    YM Resource Book            Guest Speaker

 Notes: Dinner = $60 total per session ($20 per youth; $40 from parish); there are 20 sessions in 2021-2022

 Technology includes software used to ensure the efficient, effective, and productive coordination of a ministry
 serving around 180 youth with over 30 volunteers.

 Volunteer Appreciation Dinner = $600 ($400 from all youth in Youth Ministry; $200 from parish)

18
Servant-Leadership Program for Youth
   Admittance to the program is by application and interview only. Members must be in High School
   (Grades 9-12) and have received the sacrament of Confirmation. The program is free for accepted
                                              members.

                                             Purpose
 This program has the mission of fostering a deeper sense of what it means to be a disciple of
  Christ in a community of fellow youth, children, young adults, and adults. Through regular
 meetings planning unique service opportunities and learning about discipleship, the program
    helps its members potentially experience transformational growth and empower them to
     communicate their experience of Christ to all people. The program also assists in the
 discernment of gifts and charisms to encourage their use and cultivation throughout the year.

                                              Goals
Empower members to testify Christ by their life within the St. Anthony community and beyond.
                  Strengthen members’ relationships with Christ and His Body.
                Develop a deeper understanding of discipleship among members.
Two meetings per month from 7:15-8:15 PM in SPH 5 (food may be provided)
       •   Usually, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays
              o A calendar of dates is available within the application
       •   Planning opportunities within the St. Anthony community and formation using
           contemporary Catholic literature on discipleship
Opportunities within the program include
       •   Helping assist the execution of the annual Confirmation Retreat
       •   Leading activities during Life Nights and/or Confirmation Sessions
       •   Participation in praise and worship opportunities
       •   Helping take leadership roles in service projects
       •   Assisting the Youth Ministry Coordinator in the development and execution of the
           youth ministry strategy at St. Anthony
       •   Planning and executing fundraising to offset the cost of the program
       •   Collectively using gifts to develop creative solutions and/or projects
Past Projects and Opportunities
   •   2020-2021:
          o Online Family Game Night
   •   2019-2020:
          o Blue and Black Standard T-shirts sold throughout the year
          o Family Game Night → Parish Game Night (post-pandemic)
          o Family Movie Night (planned but inexecutable due to pandemic)
          o Served at Advent Prayer Service for Confirmation Session

                                                                                                     19
Auxiliary Youth Ministry Events/Retreats

20
Auxiliary Youth Ministry Events/Retreats

       Participation in auxiliary events and retreats may require separate payment for the
event/retreat. Some are open to all youth in grades 7-12, while some have grade limitations. No
auxiliary event or retreat is required by any youth registered for formation, but participation in
     formation does come with the perk of primary communication of these events/retreats.

                                      All Youth (Grades 7-12)
Service Opportunities: Throughout the year, the Youth Ministry will notify you about opportunities to
serve within the parish and as a group in our community.

                                              Grades 8-12
Ablaze Retreat: Ablaze is an annual retreat hosted by the Franciscan Friars and Sisters of the Renewal. A
commuter retreat that lasts from Friday night to Sunday morning. An exciting and prayerful weekend
filled with opportunities to encounter Jesus, learn about religious life, and grow deeper as a disciple.
Dates are announced in the Fall Semester.

Living Stations of the Cross: Youth are invited to serve the parish as they act out the 14 stations while
other youth volunteers recite reflections, provide music, and assist with the planning/execution in other
ways. Usually, held each year the Friday before Good Friday. You will be notified when youth can sign
up – adult volunteers are needed too.

                                              Grades 9-12
High School Retreats: St. Anthony Youth Ministry plans 2 retreat opportunities for High School youth
(1 per semester). These are weekend opportunities to focus on specific topics related to Catholicism,
participate in various types of prayer, grow in fellowship, take time away from the world, and, ultimately,
grow closer to Jesus. Retreat experiences are typically held off-site at a local retreat center and consist of
overnight accommodations. Information and registration begins 1-2 months in advance.

Dallas Catholic Youth Conference (DCYC) – February 18-20, 2022: This is an exciting weekend of
prayer, community, and worship that gathers high school teens from throughout the Catholic Diocese of
Dallas and beyond. Teens are invited to deepen their relationship with Jesus through powerful speakers,
praise and worship music, vibrant liturgies, recreation, Reconciliation, and Adoration. Youth are assigned
by the Youth Ministry Coordinator to hotel rooms – up to 5 youth per room, separated guys and girls.
Adult chaperones will stay in separate hotel rooms than youth. DCYC provides an opportunity for youth
to hear from nationally known dynamic speakers and musicians who bring to life the message of Jesus
Christ and challenge youth to live out their faith as his disciples. Registration begins in December.

Forever I Serve Him (FISH): FISH is a weeklong summer mission experience and collaboration with
several other parishes in the Diocese of Dallas. The program offers a week of spiritual, fraternal, and
intellectual growth while exercising solidarity with those in great need. If your youth has ever discerned
the possibility of missionary work, this is a great place to start!

                                                                                                            21
Youth Ministry Evangelization
           St. Anthony Youth Ministry provides 2 visible opportunities for evangelization:
                              Smart Phone Wallpapers and T-shirts.

     Smart Phone Wallpapers are the digital way to bring the Gospel to your phone! With unique
       liturgical designs, including 2 designs for Christmas, you’ll have multiple ways to stay in the
     season. New designs will be added as inspiration comes to our ministry and all are available to
      download for free. Consider how your phone might help spread the Good News if you started
                                                                         using one of our wallpapers.

T-shirts are a great way to celebrate and confidently proclaim the Gospel! We have 5 standard
designs based on our mission and core values designed by youth leaders in 2018. There are
promotions and the possibility of new apparel throughout the year. If you are new to St. Anthony
Youth Ministry, be sure to get yours and one for the whole family! Adult and youth sizes
available. You can order online anytime – we will let you know when you can pick them up at
the office.

                                      https://saint-anthony.shop

22
“I greatly desire that a church be built in
                      my honor, in which I will show my love,
                        compassion, and protection. I am your
                     Mother full of mercy and love for you and
                       all those who love Me, trust in Me, and
                                have recourse to Me.”4
                     Our Lady of Guadalupe to San Juan Diego
                                  (December 9, 1531)

4From St. Juan Diego, EWTN: https://www.ewtn.com/catholicism/saints/juan-diego-658 (Accessed March 9, 2021)

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“When he saw the crowds, he went
     up the mountain, and after he had
       sat down, his disciples came to
      him. He began to teach them …”
               Matthew 5:1-2

24
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