F.A.Q.

Youth Ministry FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions

Who is involved in the youth group?
Our youth group is open to all students in grades 6-12 who belong to St. Francis of Assisi Church. Generally, our youth events are also open to friends who do not belong to the parish—all young people are welcome! Additionally, the Catholic Parishes of Rochester frequently work together to provide joint youth events and promote other parish events to benefit all Catholic youth in the city.

What activities does the Youth Group offer?
Our goal is to offer a wide variety of opportunities for youth. We want youth to be active and experience all different aspects of our faith and community. Therefore, youth events might look different throughout the year.

Some examples of activities we have held in the past are: Cardboard Box City, Souperbowl of Caring, Advent Gift Wrapping party, Church clean-up, Iron Chef Challenge vs. Holy Spirit Parish, City-wide Middle School Lock-In, Ice Skating, Steubenville Youth Conference, Bowling, Service Projects, Trip to Valley Fair, Boredom Buster Week, Bible Study, DCYC, NCYC, Movie Night Discussions and more!

How do I learn about upcoming Youth Ministry events?
There are several forms of communication to keep parents ‘in the loop’ about Youth Ministry:

In church: Youth Group updates are in the bulletin EVERY WEEK. The church bulletin is a great place to find out what’s going on. The kiosk in the Gathering Space has posters, permission forms, fliers, calendars, etc. Stop by regularly to see what’s new. You can also stop by the Parish Center Office to pick up or drop off permission forms/ money or stop in to talk with Carol.

Online: The number one source to find out about youth events is through the Youth Group Blog. The address is http://www.stfrancisyouthgroup.blogspot.com/. This blog site is updated on a weekly basis with upcoming events. There are also pictures, videos, interactive links, and resources for students and parents. If you haven’t done so already, please visit this site as it is meant to be a resource you and your student.

Another way to stay updated is to request your email be added to the Youth Group email list. Email updates and reminders will be sent on a regular basis regarding Youth Ministry activities. You can also receive electronic versions of permission forms, etc which saves a stop to pick up a form at church! To request your email be added, please submit all requests to youthminister@stfrancis-church.org.

What about mission Trips?
Currently, there are no trips scheduled. However, there is a great desire among the youth of our parish to do so! We are looking at providing a mission trip experience in the summer of 2010. If you would be willing to help organize, chaperone, or lead a group please let Carol know. Adult involvement is a must in order to provide a mission trip opportunity.

Are there leadership roles available for my child?
Yes. We have started a Youth Council for our Middle School students and we will begin a high school youth council this year. Students in the youth council should be dedicated to growing and improving the youth ministry program. Students will offer their gifts and talents to promote youth events, recommend youth group ideas, and lead other students. If your student is interested, please contact Carol.

Why should I encourage my child to participate in Youth Ministry?
There are many benefits to having your child active in the Youth Ministry program. First, Youth Ministry is one of the best ways to get your child active in the parish. Youth ministry offers age appropriate and peer driven events which introduce and call young people into the life of the church. Second, your child will have opportunities to grow in and recognize his/her own faith. Here kids can question, learn, and share with each other. Lastly, it’s fun! Young people will enjoy each others’ company and have positive experiences within the context of the church—all building to a greater sense of connection to our parish and our Catholic faith.

How can I help the Youth Ministry Program?
There are many ways for someone to help the youth ministry program—and we’re always looking for ways to improve. Common ways to support the youth group include: serving as a chaperone or adult supervision, volunteering as a small group leader, offering baked goods or donating food, suggesting youth group ideas, and offering to help implement new events/programs.