Sessions

Launching Out into the Deep: A Journey Toward Personal and Spiritual Maturity

Sponsored by: Oregon Catholic Press/spiritandsong.com

ValLimar Jansen

Experience some compelling ways to keep our spirits enriched as we grow in greater personal and spiritual maturity. Remember, we cannot pass on to the young church what we first do not possess ourselves.

Session Outcomes:

1. To become more effective faith sharers
2. To use the craft of storytelling in our ministry
3. To use music in a way that emphasizes our primary message

ValLimar Jansen is blessed with an extraordinary voice making her a highly regarded singer, cantor, and recording artist. She is also a college professor, a leader of worship and prayer, an inspirational speaker, and a workshop presenter at conferences nationally and internationally.

Lay Ecclesial Ministry Identity

Sponsored by:

Dr. Zeni Fox

A basic question for every individual is “who are you?” For lay ecclesial ministers, the answer to that question has multiple dimensions, flowing from baptism and our role in the church community. A theological reflection on this theme, and personal reflection by participants, will seek ever greater clarity about ecclesial identity.

Session Outcomes:

1. Credibility and respect as a new, young ministry professional
2. Balance between personal and professional life; issues as a young adult
3. Developing relational ministry with teens

Zeni Fox, Ph.D., is professor of pastoral theology at Immaculate Conception Seminary Seton Hall University. Author of New Ecclesial Ministry: Lay Professionals Serving the Church, and co-editor of Called and Chosen: Toward a Spirituality for Lay Leaders, she frequently writes and speaks on issues related to lay ministry.

Forming Catholic Identity in Teens

Sponsored by: Catholic Youth Foundation USA

Dr. Thomas Groome

Youth ministry should include a strong catechetical component, helping to nurture young people in a strong sense of their Catholic identity and a real religious literacy of their faith-knowing, understanding, and embracing with personal conviction its core beliefs, worship, and ethics. NOTE: This session will not be repeated on Saturday - this is the only offerring during the conference.

Thomas Groome, Ed.D., is professor of theology and religious education at Boston College and serves as director of the Institute of Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry. Born in County Kildare, Ireland, Tom holds the equivalent of a master's degree in divinity from St. Patrick's Seminary in Carlow, Ireland, and master's and doctoral degrees in religious education from Fordham University and Union Theological Seminary/Columbia University, respectively. His primary area of interest and research is the history, theory, and practice of religious education. His most recent book, Educating for Life, A Spiritual Vision for Every Teacher and Parent, published by Ave Maria Press, is a book that reflects the way he teaches: full of stories, examples, and good questions. Tom is also the author of Christian Religious Education: Sharing Our Story and Vision. In 1991, he published language for a "Catholic" church, a pastoral manual on inclusive language; and Sharing Faith: A Comprehensive Approach to Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry, which received first place in the Catholic Press Association Awards for 1992. Professor Groome is also the primary author of various religion textbook series, most recently the Coming to Faith series, from W.H. Sadlier.

Many Cultures, One Body

Sponsored by: Oregon Catholic Press/spiritandsong.com

Jesse Manibusan

It is indescribably difficult connecting with and serving the diverse people of God, but worth the struggle! Discover strategies for moving beyond good intentions to living as one in the Body of Christ.

Jesse Manibusan holds a M.A. in multicultural ministries from the Franciscan School of Theology in Berkeley, California. He presents numerous workshops on the issues of multicultural church and liturgy and perspectives. He presented the plenary session entitled, E PLURIBUS UNUM, at the National Association of Pastoral Musicians' regional convention.

Leading Faithfully

Sponsored by: Center for Ministry Development

Tom East

Youth learn more about discipleship and Christian leadership from who we are than from what we say or do. Who are we as leaders in youth ministry in the twenty-first century? This presentation will explore the role and practice of the leader in youth ministry and reflect on what it means to lead in a way that expresses our faith and embraces the opportunities for ministry today.

Tom East is the director of the Center for Ministry Development. He has been involved in youth ministry for twenty five years. Tom holds a master of arts degree in religious studies from Mount St. Mary's College in Los Angeles. Previously, he was the director of youth ministry and the associate director of religious education for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Tom is author and general editor for Call to Faith–A Thematic Approach to Young Adolescent Catechesis (Harcourt Religion Publishers, 2007), author of Effective Practices for Dynamic Youth Ministry (Saint Mary’s Press, 2004), and other titles.

Effective Youth Catechesis: Making It Personal, Making It Real

Sponsored by:

Dr. Michael Horan

What are some of the factors that help to make youth catechesis both effective and rewarding? How does the person of the minister-leader shape the ministry? What makes catechetical ministry real, credible, and authentic in today’s church? This session provides a place to probe these questions so that participants leave with some challenging, yet practical, steps forward, making ministry more personal and more real.

Michael Horan, Ph.D., is professor of religious education and pastoral theology at Loyola Marymount University (LMU), Los Angeles. He received his doctorate in religious education from the Catholic University of America. He ministered to youth and young adults in high schools and college campuses in New York and Washington, D.C. He holds a special interest in the preparation of lay ministers for leadership in the Catholic Church. For the past ten years, Michael has taught Catholic lay ministers and Catholic school teachers in graduate programs at LMU and in various universities throughout the nation each summer. He is an author of two works on the General Directory for Catechesis and is a contributing author to Blest Are We,/cite>, the parish and school religious education series published by Silver Burdett Ginn. Michael has chaired the advisory board for the Office of Pastoral Associates for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and has served on the board of directors of St. John’s Seminary, Camarillo, California. He and his wife, Patricia Fiedler, live in Marina del Rey, California, and they are active parishioners at Saint Monica Catholic Church in Santa Monica.

Biblical Literacy Made Easy

Sponsored by: Saint Mary's Press

Brian Singer-Towns

The three major goals of biblical literacy are access, big picture, and contextual interpretation. Participants will be introduced to specific competencies and strategies to use in helping young people achieve these goals to become biblically literate Catholics.

Session Outcomes:

1. The key goals for teaching biblical literacy
2. Specific competencies needed by young people to be biblically literate
3. Key strategies for forming young people with those competencies

Brian Singer-Towns has spent more than twenty-five years in youth ministry and adolescent catechesis. He has presented workshops on teaching biblical literacy nationally and internationally and is currently a senior editor for Saint Mary’s Press.

Circling the Wagons: Strategies for Junior High Ministry

Sponsored by:

Dr. Carole Goodwin

Explore the characteristics of early adolescents and the present techniques and strategies for engaging them in ministry settings. We will consider activities for both small group and large group interaction.

Session Outcomes:

1. A clearer understanding of common characteristics of junior high youth
2. Small group dynamics that engage junior high youth
3. Techniques and strategies for large group gatherings

Carole Goodwin, D.Min., director of youth ministry for the Archdiocese of Louisville, has extensive experience with adolescents and young adults in school, parish, diocesan, and university settings. She is a popular national speaker on adolescent issues at training workshops for catechists and youth ministers. She is the author of several books including, Quicksilvers: Ministering with Junior High Youth with Twenty-Third Publications and Senior Year: Last Things and Lasting Things, Life-Giving Relationships, and Family Ideas for Ministry with Young Teens with Saint Mary’s Press. Carole also serves as the chairperson of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry’s Board of Directors.

Launching Out into the Deep: A Journey Toward Personal and Spiritual Maturity

Sponsored by: Oregon Catholic Press/spiritandsong.com

ValLimar Jansen

Experience some compelling ways to keep our spirits enriched as we grow in greater personal and spiritual maturity. Remember, we cannot pass on to the young church what we first do not possess ourselves.

Session Outcomes:

1. To become more effective faith sharers
2. To use the craft of storytelling in our ministry
3. To use music in a way that emphasizes our primary message

ValLimar Jansen is blessed with an extraordinary voice making her a highly regarded singer, cantor, and recording artist. She is also a college professor, a leader of worship and prayer, an inspirational speaker, and a workshop presenter at conferences nationally and internationally.

Lay Ecclesial Ministry Identity

Sponsored by:

Dr. Zeni Fox

A basic question for every individual is “who are you?” For lay ecclesial ministers, the answer to that question has multiple dimensions, flowing from baptism and our role in the Church community. A theological reflection on this theme, and personal reflection by participants, will seek ever greater clarity about ecclesial identity.

Session Outcomes:

1. Credibility and respect as a new, young ministry professional
2. Balance between personal and professional life; issues as a young adult
3. Developing relational ministry with teens

Zeni Fox, Ph.D., is professor of pastoral theology at Immaculate Conception Seminary Seton Hall University. Author of New Ecclesial Ministry: Lay Professionals Serving the Church, and co-editor of Called and Chosen: Toward a Spirituality for Lay Leaders, she frequently writes and speaks on issues related to lay ministry.

Many Cultures, One Body

Sponsored by: Oregon Catholic Press/spiritandsong.com

Jesse Manibusan

It is indescribably difficult connecting with and serving the diverse people of God, but worth the struggle! Discover strategies for moving beyond good intentions to living as one in the Body of Christ.

Jesse Manibusan holds a M.A. in multicultural ministries from the Franciscan School of Theology in Berkeley, California. He presents numerous workshops on the issues of multicultural church and liturgy and perspectives. He presented the plenary session entitled, E PLURIBUS UNUM, at the National Association of Pastoral Musicians' regional convention.

Leading Faithfully

Sponsored by: Center for Ministry Development

Tom East

Youth learn more about discipleship and Christian leadership from who we are than from what we say or do. Who are we as leaders in youth ministry in the twenty-first century? This presentation will explore the role and practice of the leader in youth ministry and reflect on what it means to lead in a way that expresses our faith and embraces the opportunities for ministry today.

Tom East is the director of the Center for Ministry Development. He has been involved in youth ministry for twenty five years. Tom holds a master of arts degree in religious studies from Mount St. Mary's College in Los Angeles. Previously, he was the director of youth ministry and the associate director of religious education for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Tom is author and general editor for Call to Faith–A Thematic Approach to Young Adolescent Catechesis (Harcourt Religion Publishers, 2007), author of Effective Practices for Dynamic Youth Ministry (Saint Mary’s Press, 2004), and other titles.

Effective Youth Catechesis: Making It Personal, Making It Real

Sponsored by:

Dr. Michael Horan

What are some of the factors that help to make youth catechesis both effective and rewarding? How does the person of the minister-leader shape the ministry? What makes catechetical ministry real, credible, and authentic in today’s church? This session provides a place to probe these questions so that participants leave with some challenging, yet practical, steps forward, making ministry more personal and more real.

Michael Horan, Ph.D., is professor of religious education and pastoral theology at Loyola Marymount University (LMU), Los Angeles. He received his doctorate in religious education from the Catholic University of America. He ministered to youth and young adults in high schools and college campuses in New York and Washington, D.C. He holds a special interest in the preparation of lay ministers for leadership in the Catholic Church. For the past ten years, Michael has taught Catholic lay ministers and Catholic school teachers in graduate programs at LMU and in various universities throughout the nation each summer. He is an author of two works on the General Directory for Catechesis and is a contributing author to Blest Are We,/cite>, the parish and school religious education series published by Silver Burdett Ginn. Michael has chaired the advisory board for the Office of Pastoral Associates for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, and has served on the board of directors of St. John’s Seminary, Camarillo, California. He and his wife, Patricia Fiedler, live in Marina del Rey, California, and they are active parishioners at Saint Monica Catholic Church in Santa Monica.

Teaching Youth to Pray

Sponsored by: Oregon Catholic Press/spiritandsong.com

Tom Tomaszek

Prayer matters. Teaching youth to pray is a both a blessing and a challenge. Music makes a difference. Come, discover the best practices, approaches, and resources for accomplishing this most important dimension of our work as youth ministers.

Session Outcomes:

1. Best practices for using music in prayer settings and for faith formation
2. Key principles for using music to evangelize and catechize
3. Resources, approaches, and strategies to build community and outreach

Tom Tomaszek is an educator, composer, liturgical musician, author, and youth advocate. He is well known in youth ministry and liturgy circles for his efforts to better integrate youth into parish worship. Tom's ministry began with teaching English at a public high school while serving as a parish musician and catechist. Those experiences led to fourteen years of service to the Archdiocese of Milwaukee's youth ministry office. He holds a master's in theological studies from St. Francis Seminary in Milwaukee and a master's in education from the University of Wisconsin. Currently, Tom is director of the artist relations and product development division at OCP. He lives in Portland, Oregon, with his wife, Katherine.

A Brief History of Youth Culture

Sponsored by:

Robert Rice

This workshop goes to the roots of where the youth culture was born and follows its growth to the present moment. Learning about the origins and history of the youth culture gives us an edge in effectively ministering to teens today.

Session Outcomes:

1. An understanding of the origins of youth culture
2. A deeper understanding of postmodernism and its impact on today's teenagers
3. Practical tools to minister to teens and their culture

Bob Rice is an associate professor of catetchetics at Franciscan University of Steubenville where he teaches classes on youth ministry, evangelizaiton, and Scripture.

Digging Deep: Making Service Meaningful

Sponsored by:

David Gallant

Service is not just about digging holes, collecting food, painting walls, or raising money. It is about digging deep into the lives of the youth who will become servant leaders and giving them a strong foundation to live out their lives as disciples of Christ.

Session Outcomes:

1. An understanding of a specific format to make service meaningful
2. Discussion of ten benefits of meaningful service for adolescent faith formation
3. Scripture and service: using the call of Jesus in meaningful service today

Dave Gallant has been involved in youth ministry since 1996, beginning with two years of service with NET Ministries. Since 1999, he has been the director of youth ministry at St. Mary of the Annunciation in Portsmouth, Ohio, serving students in middle and high school. In addition to his parish responsibilities, David directs a summer workcamp that attracts more than 200 youth to serve the less fortunate of Scioto County, Ohio. Dave is part of the National Asssociation for Catholic Youth Ministry Leaders Leadership Team.

Praying with Teens

Sponsored by: Oregon Catholic Press/spiritandsong.com

Tom Booth and Matt Maher

The mission of the church is to reconcile all things in Christ. This is communal and mystical. Such mystic communion is for all ages, not only for older adults. Gain a deeper understanding of contemporary prayer and skills for moving teens into deeper practice of the “art of prayer.”

Session Outcomes:

1. A working definition of prayer with the teens
2. The current state of teen spirituality
3. Methods for inviting teens into contemplative prayer and prayerful celebration

Tom Booth, a gifted composer and musician, has written songs that are known throughout the country. He spreads the gospel through concerts, workshops, missions, and retreats.

Matt Maher is a talented minister of music whose songs and faith have touched countless young people. He and his band have performed throughout the United States and beyond, leading teenagers in vibrant prayer and worship.

Using the Remote to Channel Jesus: The Sequel

Sponsored by:

Patrick Donovan

Participants will look at ten video clips that introduce young people to Jesus through film. We will also look at how to capture and use clips legally.

Session Outcomes:

1. How to set the scene for engaging catechesis
2. Using appropriate scenes for specific subjects
3. Methods for capturing and using movie clips legally

Patrick Donovan serves as the executive director for the Diocese of Wilmington’s Office for Catholic Youth Ministry. He holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville and an MA in theology from the University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana. Previously, Patrick served as a parish youth minister and theology instructor in the Diocese of Knoxville. He is the co-author of Reaching Teens through Film, Volumes 9, 10, and 11, and is a regular contributor to Youth Ministry Access, an online ministry service of the Center for Ministry Development. Patrick is married with three children.

The Elephant in Your Youth Room

Sponsored by:

Kevin Driscoll and James Chesnes

Statistics show that today’s teens face pressures never before seen. Teens are dealing with stress, addiction, depression, abuse, family crisis, sexual pressures, and a slew of other problems. You know how to “do” youth ministry, but what do you do when you are not qualified to handle those issues? What do you do when the elephant tracks mud into your youth room? Your youth program can be a transformational experience for a hurting teen, if you’re ready to acknowledge the elephants and present the healing Christ! This workshop includes a “State of the Youth” address and a frank discussion on how to provide pastoral care for youth in need.

Session Outcomes:

1. Youth ministry leaders will feel better equipped to address problems and concerns that teens bring to programs
2. Youth ministry leaders will be inspired to recognize that we must acknowledge those problems and provide a church response if we are to remain culturally relevant
3. Youth ministry leaders will engage in a frank discussion on current issues facing teens and how they impact youth ministry and vice versa

Kevin Driscoll is the coordinator of the Diocese of Gary Office for Youth and Young Adults. He has more than ten years of professional youth ministry experience at both the parish and diocesan levels and is the chair of the membership management committee for the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry. Kevin holds a master's in pastoral studies. He and his family reside in Cedar Lake, Indiana.

Jim Chesnes has been in professional youth ministry since 1985. He has served as youth minister and confirmation coordinator for St. Paul of the Cross parish in North Palm Beach, Florida, since 1992. Jim is also a licensed mental health counselor and works with adolescents, adults, and families. Jim and his family live in Jupiter, Florida.

Whole Community Catechesis from the Pastor’s Viewpoint

Sponsored by:

Msgr. Ray East

Ever since From Age to Age we have tried to integrate Catholic youth activities with faith formation. Whole community catechesis gives us a fresh new approach that some parishes have found really works! Come and share your experiences and challenges in forming young disciples of Christ.

Session Outcomes:

1. A renewed understanding of whole community catechesis
2. New opportunities and challenges in discipleship training
3. A “state of the union” check-in on youth faith formation

Msgr. Ray East, nationally known inspirational speaker and revivalist, is executive director of the Office of Black Catholics and vicar for evangelization of the Archdiocese of Washington, D.C. He is also pastor of St. Therese of Avila parish in southwest Washington, a vibrant African American Catholic community deeply engaged in a plethora of ministries for its members and for its surrounding neighborhood.

There Is No Magic Potion-Getting Volunteers

Sponsored by: Center for Ministry Development

Ann Marie Eckert

Explore ways that parishes successfully invite, train, and keep volunteers in youth ministry. You will leave with practical ideas to enhance your current efforts and new ways of thinking about volunteer recruitment.

Session Outcomes:

1. How to prepare for volunteers
2. Specific recruitment techniques
3. How to support and keep volunteers

Ann Marie Eckert is a coordinator for youth Ministry services for the Center for Ministry Development. Involved in youth ministry for the past twenty-five years, she has served as a parish coordinator of youth ministry, diocesan director for youth and young adult ministry, and a trainer/writer/program coordinator with the Center.

Adolescent Catechesis: Looking at the Big Picture and Focusing on Youth

Sponsored by: Center for Ministry Development

Tom East

To help youth grow in faith understanding and practice, parishes need to build up all of the settings for catechesis. Like a lens on a camera, this workshop will take a wide angle view of the big picture context for developing a curriculum for systematic and comprehensive catechesis with youth. We will also zoom in to focus on the learning needs of an individual young person. This workshop will also explore the church documents and the best practices research that can guide continued growth in adolescent catechesis.

Session Outcomes:

1. An increased understanding of principles and practices for adolescent catechesis
2. A greater awareness of the current context for catechesis with youth
3. A framework for developing a curriculum for systematic catechesis with youth

Tom East is the director of the Center for Ministry Development. He has been involved in youth ministry for twenty five years. Tom holds a master of arts degree in religious studies from Mount St. Mary's College in Los Angeles. Previously, he was the director of youth ministry and the associate director of religious education for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. Tom is author and general editor for Call to Faith–A Thematic Approach to Young Adolescent Catechesis (Harcourt Religion Publishers, 2007), author of Effective Practices for Dynamic Youth Ministry (Saint Mary’s Press, 2004), and other titles.

Story and Song

Sponsored by: Oregon Catholic Press/spiritandsong.com

ValLimar Jansen and Steve Angrisano

Story is one way by which we pass on our history. Stories also contain the quest for meaning in our encounter with God, which we experience in the events of our lives, while the use of song brings further artistic expression to that quest.

Session Outcomes:

1. Being more effective in moments of faith-sharing
2. Ability to understand and use the craft of storytelling in your ministry
3. Ability to use music in a way that emphasizes your primary message

Steve Angrisano is recognized as one of the most dynamic and effective communicators with Christian youth in the country. He has been featured at major youth events nationally and internationally, including two World Youth Days, four National Catholic Youth Conferences and countless school, camp, and diocesan events, as well as concerts, workshops, and parish missions. His unique blend of laughter, song, story, and often hilarious audience interaction make him a popular choice and a witness of the love and life of Jesus.

ValLimar Jansen is blessed with an extraordinary voice making her a highly regarded singer, cantor, and recording artist. She is also a college professor, a leader of worship and prayer, an inspirational speaker, and a workshop presenter at conferences nationally and internationally.

Encountering Christ: The Evangelizing Purpose of Youth Ministry

Sponsored by: Catholic Youth Foundation USA

Dr. Thomas Groome

The “new evangelization” demands that all the ministries of the church enable people to personally encounter and embrace “the way” of Jesus Christ. In no ministry is this more urgent than youth ministry.

Thomas Groome, Ed.D., is professor of theology and religious education at Boston College and serves as director of the Institute of Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry. Born in County Kildare, Ireland, Tom holds the equivalent of a master's degree in divinity from St. Patrick's Seminary in Carlow, Ireland, and master's and doctoral degrees in religious education from Fordham University and Union Theological Seminary/Columbia University, respectively. His primary area of interest and research is the history, theory, and practice of religious education. His most recent book, Educating for Life, A Spiritual Vision for Every Teacher and Parent, published by Ave Maria Press, is a book that reflects the way he teaches: full of stories, examples, and good questions. Tom is also the author of Christian Religious Education: Sharing Our Story and Vision. In 1991, he published language for a "Catholic" church, a pastoral manual on inclusive language; and Sharing Faith: A Comprehensive Approach to Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry, which received first place in the Catholic Press Association Awards for 1992. Professor Groome is also the primary author of various religion textbook series, most recently the Coming to Faith series, from W.H. Sadlier.

Latino Parents: The Key to Faith Formation among Young Latinos

Sponsored by:

Ken Johnson-Mondragón

The vast majority of Latino Catholic teens in the United States today has at least one immigrant parent. This workshop explores the culture and religious experiences of Latino families and offers strategies to increase the participation of Latino parents in the faith formation of their adolescent children.

Session Outcomes:

1. History and religious values of Latino Catholic families
2. Strategies to increase the participation of Latino teens in youth ministry programs
3. Ways to involve Latino parents in their children's faith formation

Ken Johnson-Mondragón is the director of research and publications for Instituto Fe y Vida. Previously, he served as a youth minister for seven years in three predominantly Hispanic parishes.

Something Positive to Offer: Teaching About Chaste Living

Sponsored by: www.catholicYMBlog.com

D. Scott Miller

We were never meant to be a church preoccupied with NOs. As a church blessed with Pope John Paul’s gift of the theology of the body, we have something positive to offer young people.

Session Outcomes:

1. The dissonance between what we teach about love and physical intimacy and our own experience
2. The centrality of the Genesis creation stories in the church’s teaching regarding sex
3. The ability to identify the sacramental nature of physical intimacy and translate the same to young people. Participants will have also reviewed the U.S. bishops’ “Catechetical Formation in Chaste Living”

D. Scott Miller is the coordinator for adolescent faith formation for the Division of Youth and Young Adult Ministry of the Archdiocese of Baltimore. He maintains a daily web-blog at www.catholicYMblog.com.

Planning and Implementing Effective Retreats

Sponsored by:

Cooper Ray

Knowing that a retreat can be one of the most pivotal experiences on a young person’s faith journey, how do we develop retreats that are engaging, yet spiritually uplifting? This workshop will provide ideas and resources for preparing and implementing a retreat that engages young people and draws them to a greater commitment to their faith.

Session Outcomes:

1. The necessary steps that should be taken in developing a retreat
2. Strategies for making the most of the retreat space
3. Ideas for effective use of prayer, icebreakers, talks/presentations, and activities

Cooper Ray is a dynamic and light-hearted speaker and musician who has been a part of youth ministry for more than fifteen years serving most of that time as the director of youth ministry for the Diocese of Baton Rouge. He has served in numerous leadership positions at The Pines Catholic Camp, most recently as camp director and is an experienced liturgical music leader. Cooper holds a master's degree in pastoral studies from Loyola University New Orleans.

Working with Difficult Supervisors

Sponsored by:

Dr. Brian Reynolds

Though working in church ministry brings wonderful opportunities, many employees face the problem of having to work with a supervisor who may be difficult to get along with, demanding, disinterested, or even hurtful. This workshop will look at common workplace issues related to supervision and identify strategies for working for change where it is possible.

Session Outcomes:

1. Common supervision challenges and why they exist
2. How to prevent conflicts with supervisors and improve poor relationships
3. How to address particular supervision issues that exist in their particular workplace

Brian Reynolds is the chancellor and chief administrative officer of the Archdiocese of Louisville. He has worked in church ministry for thirty years as a diocesan administrator, teacher, and author.

Advocacy: Standing With, By, and For Young People

Sponsored by:

Dr. Maggie McCarty

Advocacy with, by, and for youth is an essential component of comprehensive youth ministry. In order to form and inform the next generation of church, we need to ensure that they are welcomed into the life of the faith community now. This workshop will look at advocacy from a scriptural and theological perspective and offer practical strategies for infusing advocacy efforts into parish and civic communities.

Session Outcomes:

1. The development of a Scriptural and theological context for advocacy
2. An understanding of advocacy as both an intentional and infused activity
3. A five-step process for advocacy

Maggie McCarty, D.Min., is president of Education for Parish Service, a lay training and formation program serving four dioceses. She has been involved in youth ministry since 1977 having worked at the parish, diocesan, and national level. She has taught as adjunct faculty at Loyola University New Orleans, St. Mary’s Seminary in Baltimore, and University in Baltimore, and Princeton’s Institute for Youth Ministry. She is a youth ministry volunteer at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fulton, Maryland, and sits on the board of directors for the Catholic Youth Foundation USA.

Managing Multiple Parish Ministry

Sponsored by:

Doug Tooke

A workshop on addressing multiple parish trends and the best practices of effective collaborative ministry.

Session Outcomes:

1. Current trends in the field
2. Practical resources and solutions
3. Components of successful multiple parish ministry

Doug Tooke is the office of youth and young adult ministry coordinator at the Diocese of Helena. He brings to the diocese ten years of youth ministry experience. He has traveled to more than twenty-fives dioceses in the past five years teaching, keynoting conventions, and leading rallies and retreats.

Youth Ministry 101: It’s All About Discipleship

Sponsored by: Cultivation Ministries

Frank Mercadante

By using an agricultural metaphor, this workshop will focus on how to build a comprehensive parish ministry for adolescents. This workshop will offer a four-phase strategy for growing a disciple-making youth ministry by building an impacting youth ministry team (preparing), evangelizing youth (sowing), forming teens in the faith (growing), and building teen leaders and ministers (reaping).

Session Outcomes:

1. Ability to identify the four phases of a disciple-making youth ministry
2. Ability to evaluate you parish youth ministry in light of the four phases of discipleship
3. Ability to identify practical strategies for further developing a comprehensive, disciple-making youth ministry in your parish setting

Frank Mercadante is the founder and executive director of Cultivation Ministries, a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to cultivating team-based, comprehensive, and disciple-making Catholic youth ministries by training, resourcing, and supporting adult and teen leaders. Frank has presented in more than seventy dioceses internationally. He is the author of several books including Growing Teen Disciples (2002), and the teen book Positively Dangerous: Live Loud, Be Real, and Change Your World (2003) published through Saint Mary’s Press. He is married to Diane and has six children.

The Basics: An Overview of Young Adult Ministry

Sponsored by: National Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association (NCYAMA)

Paul Jarzembowski and NCYAMA Panel

Come explore the world of young adult ministry, focusing on the culture, needs, and concerns of men and women in college and in their 20s and 30s. This workshop will also explore the best practices in the evangelization, outreach, faith formation, and ministry to and with young adults.

Session Outcomes:

1. Tools for implementing “Sons and Daughters of the Light,” the United States bishops’ 1997 Pastoral Letter on Young Adult Ministry
2. An understanding of the basic terms, concepts, and ideas about young adult ministry today
3. Best practices and models of young adult evangelization and suggestions for effective use of these resources

Paul Jarzembowski is the acting executive director for the National Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association and the director of young adult ministry for the Diocese of Joliet.

The Challenge of Discipleship

Sponsored by: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Religion Publishers

Dr. Mike Carotta

The church has urged us to make “necessary adaptations” as we call young people to the path of discipleship. (GDC #185) How is this different than our past approaches? What are the challenges, the promise, the potential, and the costs?

Session Outcomes:

1. Knowledge of the characteristics of adolescent discipleship
2. An understanding of adolescent discipleship's appropriateness for postmodern adolescent spirituality
3. Exploration of the unique nature of teaching for discipleship (informally and formally)

Mike Carotta, Ed.D., has worked with the spirituality of adolescents in pastoral , educational, clinical, and athletic settings for more than thirty years. His recent books include Have Faith: Sustaining the Spirit for Confirmation and Beyond, a candiate and sponsor resource, and Lincoln Park, a junior high mystery series with a spiritual message that he co-authored with John Shea. He is the adolescent catechesis consultant for Harcourt Religion Publishers and currently teaches graduate courses at several Catholic universities.

Let’s Stop Playing Defense and Play Offense!

Sponsored by:

Rich Curran

Far too many parishes minister to the kids who come to religious education, but are missing the majority. We will spend some time breaking open real-life examples of parishes who have that “go get 'em attitude” when it comes to youth evangelization!

Session Outcomes:

1. Ability to identify signs of a “maintenance” ministry and signs of a ministry on a mission
2. Proven methods of evangelizing the marginalized youth
3. Specific goals and objectives for implementation back home

Rich Curran is a national speaker who addresses thousands of teenagers and adults each year. His passion and energy combined with real-life practical suggestions leave audiences ready for action. You can read more about Rich's work at his website www.richcurran.com.

Living Spirit, Holy Fire: Preparing and Celebrating Confirmation

Sponsored by: GIA Publications

David Haas

This workshop will explore the liturgical, catechetical, and theological issues that confirmation presents. Come and examine the many different perspectives and embrace new and creative models for both catechetical preparation and liturgical celebration. Musical possibilities for use for liturgies, retreats, and catechetical sessions will also be shared.

Session Outcomes:

1. An understanding of confirmation grounded in the ritual text
2. A creative and celebrative approach to confirmation for both youth and parents
3. Resources and ideas in using liturgy, music, and prayer in all phases of confirmation

David Haas is a composer, a workshop leader, and the director of The Emmaus Center for Music, Prayer and Ministry. He also is campus minister/artist in residence at Benilde-St. Margaret's High School in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, and the founder and director of “Music Ministry Alive!”

Sharing Catholic Social Teaching and Spirituality with Today’s Teens

Sponsored by: Catholic Relief Services

Catholic Collaborative for Justice Education (CCJE) Jill Rauh (CCHD/USCCB), Ted Miles (CRS), Katherine Feely (Education for Justice/Center of Concern), and Sara Dwyer (NETWORK)

To mark the tenth anniversary of the U.S. Catholic bishops’ statement, Sharing Catholic Social Teaching: Challenges and Directions, discover ways to teach teens about the church’s social mission. Learn how to help teens foster a faith life that is both personal and social, form their social consciences, and engage in social analysis about current social problems. The role of the church in the public sphere and appropriate ways for youth ministry programs to help the church live out this role will be discussed.

Session Outcomes:

1. An understanding of the church’s social mission as an essential element of the Catholic faith and as a vehicle of transformation in teens and in society
2. How to use the church’s social teaching to engage teens in social analysis
3. New resources available from national Catholic organizations to help form teen disciples

Formed in 2002, the Catholic Collaborative for Justice Education (CCJE) includes educational staff of several national Catholic organizations who meet on a monthly basis to discuss issues of social concern and to share resources on Catholic social teaching (CST). CCJE has presented joint workshops at national and regional conferences, has worked with many church-related ministries to promote CST, and has collaborated on joint educational projects. The collective experience of CCJE members includes dozens of years in youth ministry and education.

Sara Dwyer, ASC, is a member of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, U.S.A. Region, and has been involved in youth and adult education ministries and retreats for more than thirty years. She has master’s degrees in theology and education.

Sr. Katherine Feely is a Sister of Notre Dame (SND) from Cleveland, Ohio. She joined the Center of Concern staff in the fall of 2006, where she directs the Education for Justice Project. She has a master’s degree in theology combining joint studies of Catholic social teaching and economics from Boston College. Her background includes work in the fields of social justice, advocacy, community organizing, programming, and education. She is currently consulting with the National Catholic Educational Association and Catholic Relief Services on a global solidarity project.

Ted Miles is a native of Baltimore, Maryland, and has worked for Catholic Relief Services since July 2005 as the religious education relationship manager and co-coordinator of the agency's youth strategy program. His work includes the development of an urban immersion experience rooted in Catholic social teaching for the Archdiocese of Baltimore, presentations at numerous regional and national conferences, and international travel with the Archdiocese of Baltimore Haiti Project and Catholic Relief Services, including a parish social ministry training in Moldova, Eastern Europe.

Jill Rauh has a B.A. in theology and communication from Marquette University and a M.A. in international affairs with an emphasis on U.S. foreign policy from George Washington University. She has been involved in youth, campus, and young adult ministry programming for ten years and spent four years developing Catholic social teaching resources for parishes and schools with the Education for Justice project at Center of Concern before coming to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Cultural Competency 101: “Across the Not-so-Great Divide”

Sponsored by: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Religion Publishers

Ron Landfair

Understanding the complexities of culture, race, and ethnicity are hard enough. Toss in religion and the conversation becomes even more complex. This workshop will provide a basic primer to youth ministers to understand dialogues of difference in a new light and frame important concepts that they can apply in their home parishes.

Session Outcomes:

1. An understanding of the concept of culture as the true modifier of human relationships.
2. How to distinguish between race, ethnicity, and culture.
3. An understanding of the differences in ethno-cultural religious perspectives.

Ronald Landfair is the director of black Catholic ministry and multicultural projects for the Diocese of Lansing. He is in the diaconal program in the Diocese of Lansing and is a board member of the National Federation of Catholic Youth Ministry.

The Doctor and the Rocker Agree: We Exist to Evangelize!

Sponsored by: World Library Publications

Dr. Jerry Galipeau and John Angotti

Join Dr. Jerry Galipeau and John Angotti in an uplifting exploration of the fundamental ministry of the baptized Catholic: evangelization. This workshop will also provide tools to help catechists utilize the components of mystagogical catechesis to help young people reflect upon and learn through their activities of evangelization.

Session Outcomes:

1. That evangelization is at the heart of our baptismal call
2. That music and liturgy are powerful tools for evangelization
3. That mystagogical reflection on evangelizing activities deepens faith

Jerry Galipeau, D.Min., is worship resources editor at World Library Publications. He holds a doctorate in ministry from Catholic Theological Union and presents keynotes, parish missions, and workshops throughout the United States and Canada on evangelization, initiation, and catechesis.

John Angotti is a gifted composer and performing artist who travels the world spreading the “Good News” and sharing his songs of joy, while celebrating and glorifying our Lord, Jesus Christ. His music and recordings are published by World Library Publications.

Engaging Youth in Intergenerational Catechesis

Sponsored by: Center for Ministry Development

Joan Weber

Explore ways of engaging youth in parish-based intergenerational faith formation and making traditionally “youth-only” events more intergenerational.

Session Outcomes:

1. Recognition of the value of youth sharing faith with all generations
2. Ways of doing intergenerational catechesis which are engaging and relevant to adolescents
3. Ways to empower young people to catechize their peers and other generations

Joan Weber is a coordinator for family and intergenerational services at the Center for Ministry Development. She also coordinates the Institute in Lifelong Faith Formation at CMD. She holds a master's degree in pastoral ministry from Creighton University.

Youth Ministry Leadership: The Dance of Passion and Professionalism

Sponsored by:

Dr. Robert McCarty

Servant, steward, animator, coordinator: as our understanding of youth ministry evolves, our image of the leader must change as well. This session will identify the ministry shifts in roles, emphases, and leadership images, blending passion and professionalism!

Session Outcomes:

1. Identification of the ministerial shifts in youth ministry over the past ten years.
2. Identification of the changing roles of youth ministry leadership.
3. Recollection of why we do ministry–the source of our passion!

Bob McCarty, D.Min., is the executive director of the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry and a youth ministry volunteer at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Fulton, Maryland.

Hooked on Stories

Sponsored by: National Conference on Catechetical Leadership

Leland Nagel

Something in our DNA makes us addicted to stories. We can’t get enough of them. Discover the power of parable, the enigmatic pull of the Gospels, and the provocative metaphors of these mini-sacraments that open the door to an alternative world, the Reign of God.

Leland Nagel has held a variety of positions on both the diocesan and university level. Currently, he is the executive director of the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership (NCCL). A faith-filled storyteller, Lee Nagel is an educator by profession and a catechist by vocation, a teacher by trade and an evangelist by baptism. His messages are motivational and inspirational.

The Passion Epidemic

Sponsored by: Mike Patin

Michael Patin

Passion: is it a goal, byproduct, or result of ministry? Pope Paul VI said the world listens to witnesses more than teachers. How fascinating is your Jesus? How passionate is your discipleship? What is your passion temperature?

Session Outcomes:

1. Identify obstacles and “drains” to ministry today
2. Reflect on the nature of personal call and passion
3. Surface ways to recover and reconnect with passion in ministry

Mike Patin lives in Lafayette, Louisiana. He is a husband and a dad of one daughter. He spent six years as a high school teacher and coach, and worked in youth ministry since 1990. He has been speaking around the country to young people and adults since 2003.

Empowering Volunteer Leaders: Bringing Your Ministry to a Whole New Level

Sponsored by:

John Rinaldo

Empowering and training volunteer leaders is a challenge. What are some effective strategies to help us do it well? This workshop will provide an action plan to empower your volunteer leaders, starting with the basics–growing your own leadership ability. Come and learn how to mentor and develop your team so that your ministry can be brought to a whole new level. It takes work, but it is worth it!

Session Outcomes:

1. Strategies for effectively training volunteers
2. Systems for developing leaders
3. The need to discover a volunteer leaders strengths

John Rinaldo is the consultant for youth ministry and confirmation for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. He has a M.A. in pastoral ministry and has been working in full-time youth ministry for more than seven years.

Discipleship and Mission Among Hispanic Young People

Sponsored by: World Library Publications

Jorge Rivera

Pastoral juvenil (youth ministry) is present for the evangelization of young people. This evangelization should immerse them into the fundamental experience of their faith, the historical discipleship of Jesus, and to the continuing of their project.

Session Outcomes:

1. Discipleship
2. Mission
3. Coresponsibility

Jorge Rivera has many years working with the Hispanic/Latino community in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Presently Jorge is the coordinator for the Hispanic young adults in the archdiocese.

Pray It and Play It Well! Excellence in Catholic Music Ministry

Sponsored by: World Library Publications

Aaron Thompson

So you are Catholic, love Jesus and Mary, and own a guitar. Now what? How do we reach out to older and younger Catholics in worship? Come and explore the need for excellence in Catholic music ministry.

Session Outcomes:

1. The relationship between excellence and preparation and inspiration and participation
2. An understanding of music as a craft as well as how to work with bands and choirs
3. How to build a youth choir that can sing hymns that are old, new, and in between

Aaron Thompson is an amazing Catholic musician and presenter who successfully highlights challenges and solutions of pastoral music ministry through the eyes of church teaching, music, and family. He effectively reaches out to adults, youth, clergy, and people of all cultures.

Facebook and Myspace and Blogging, Oh My!

Sponsored by:

Chris Weber

Never opened a Facebook before? Not sure exactly how it can be MySpace and your space too? This workshop will examine current trends in teen-oriented social networking websites and explore ways to use these sites and related technology to further the goals of comprehensive Catholic youth ministry.

Session Outcomes:

1. The basics of teen-oriented social networking websites and related trends (instant messaging, text messaging, etc.)
2. The ways young people use social networking technology and what youth ministry leaders can learn from them
3. The ways to use these social networking technology safely as resources “to draw young people to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic Faith Community,” (Renewing the Vision, USCCB)

Chris Webber serves as director of youth and young adult ministry for the Muscatine Catholic Community, Muscatine, Iowa. A youth ministry leader since 1997, Chris’s primary ministry focus is in the parish. In addition to his parish ministry he serves on the leadership team of the National Association of Catholic Youth Ministry Leaders. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Religion and Psychology from Luther College and a Certificate in Youth Ministry Studies from St. Ambrose University.

Why Am I Here? Catholic Identity Improv Games for Youth

Sponsored by:

Rob Wahl

Because improv performance demands that actors justify their presence in a scene through understanding, acceptance and involvement, it is perfect for teaching the call to know, love, and serve God. This workshop takes attendees through a progression of improv exercises that can be used to teach Catholic identity and help teens and adults connect in fun, unpredictable ways while breaking down inhibitions and barriers.

Session Outcomes:

1. Specific games and exercises for a fun-filled youth event that focuses on catechesis.
2. How to help youth understand that to know, love, and serve God in this life is a major part of their Catholic identity.
3. Practical skills that emphasize flexibility in youth encounters while staying focused on the primary role of spiritual guide.

Rob Wahl, a professional comic for more than fifteen years, has performed for many parishes focusing on basics of the faith using improv comedy and brave volunteers. A member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Grove City, Ohio, Rob is an on-air kids show host on EWTN, a regional and national commercial actor, and has five children with his wife of nineteen years.

Wearing Both Hats: Doing Youth and Young Adult Ministry Effectively Without Short-Changing Either

Sponsored by: National Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association (NCYAMA)

Anna Marie Wright

Many parish and diocesan youth ministers are also asked to do young adult ministry. How can we do both, and do them well? In this workshop, we will explore some strategic ways to develop a healthy collegiate or young adult outreach without overwhelming your already busy schedule with youth ministry.

Session Outcomes:

1. Support for youth leaders doing both youth and young adult ministry
2. Strategies and methods for developing a young adult ministry while doing youth ministry
3. Creative tips on programming and overcoming obstacles while wearing “two hats”

Anna Marie Wright is the associate director of young adult ministry for the Diocese of St. Petersburg. She also serves on the board of directors for the National Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association. Anna Marie sits on the partners team for the Emerging Models of Pastoral Leadership Project, a joint project of six national associations funded by the Lilly Endowment, Inc. in their Sustaining Pastoral Excellence Program.

What Grade Are You In? Where is Your Leader?: Issues of the Younger Youth Minister

Sponsored by:

Jennifer Belock and Libby Peterson

Have you ever been asked if you were a teen yourself? Then welcome to the world of being a new, overwhelmed, but excited, youth minister! We will discuss issues of being youthful yet respected and focus on how to successfully reach teens in their faith and personal lives. Learn to build credibility among parents, parishioners, and staff. You are not alone in trying to find the balance between personal and professional life.

Session Outcomes:

1. Credibility and respect as a new, young ministry professional
2. Balance between personal and professional life; issues as a young adult
3. Developing relational ministry with teens

Jennifer Belock has more than three years of experience with junior high, high school, and young adult ministry. She received a B.A. in history from Miami University and attended John Carroll University for graduate work in education.