Parish Youth Ministry



Comprehensive Youth Ministry

Renewing the Vision
In 1997, the National Conference of Catholic Bishops released the document Renewing the Vision: A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry to guide the church towards a comprehensive approach to ministry with youth. Renewing the Vision builds on the fine tradition begun by the 1976 document, A Vision of Youth Ministry. Renewing the Vision is a call to make ministry with adolescents a concern for the entire church community, especially for leaders in parishes, schools, and dioceses. 

Goals of Comprehensive Youth Ministry
Renewing the Vision focuses the Church’s ministry with adolescents on three essential goals: 
(1) empowering young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today 
(2) drawing young people to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the faith community
(3) fostering the total personal and spiritual growth of each young person. 

Themes of Comprehensive Youth Ministry
• Developmentally Appropriate
• Family Friendly
• Intergenerational
• Multicultural
• Community-wide Collaboration
• Leadership
• Flexible and Adaptable Programming

Components of Comprehensive Youth Ministry
• Advocacy
• Catechesis
• Community Life
• Evangelization
• Justice and Service
• Leadership Development
• Pastoral Care
• Prayer and Worship

Ministry Settings for Comprehensive Youth Ministry
• Youth
• Family
• Parish Community
• Civic Community