Youth Ministry

I recently got involved in a youth ministry program as a volunteer.  I checked out a high school youth group and got to hang out with some really great (amazing and soulful) kids. Every youth group is different, but once a month there is a sports themed night.  My first experience at youth group was indeed the sports night and I had the pleasure of engaging in ultimate frisbee, glow-in-the-dark Tron style in the park across from the St. Monica Church.  It was awesome and life-giving!

I was extremely happy when one of the other youth ministers decided to change the rules a bit and say that the frisbee must be passed from boy to girl to boy etc. This new rule dramatically changed the game! Yes, it was not as fast paced because the same 4 boys were not running down the field scoring all the goals.  But the girls were actually involved! And having a great time as soon as they realized that they could catch and throw frisbees too!  The boys started to trust them more, at first because they had no other option and then because they actually realized that girls could score goals and be into the game too.  I genuinely hope that it won't take as long to realize that we need to try harder to get everyone involved in co-ed sports.

I was deeply touched by the heartfelt participation in prayer of the youth group members after frisbee.  Everyone stood in a circle and held hands while prayer intentions were offered to our loving God.  These high school kids are truly living in God's grace and I pray that nothing will sway them away.  My prayer is that God will build their strength, endurance and love and deepen their prayer life as well. I hope that the youth group kids continue to show me God's love and truth through their genuine liveliness and gentleness.