We have been blessed with good local coverage of Catholic youth ministry by our diocesan paper… So, if I keep referring to it, sorry,. but it is cool to note!

EMMITSBURG, MD – Father Brian Nolan tossed a Frisbee that floated above the grass of Echo Field on the campus of Mount St. Mary’s University June 30. The campus was hosting “Catholic Live!” The one-day conference for teens mixed faith lessons with popular culture for talk sessions. The theme for the day was “Set The World Ablaze!” and more than 200 teens interacted with priests, seminarians, youth ministers and volunteers. Read more form the Catholic Review.

HOLBROOK, AZ — Thirty-three Catholic youth from the Diocese of Colorado Springs traveled last week for a three-day community service project. The youth, who wear the theme “Others Before Self” on their T-shirts, paid $75 each to participate in the annual service trip. Read more from the Arizona Journal. 

News from ‘Round Here:

I’ve started to make it a routine to schedule myself to show at masses related to something going on at that Church… So, when Sunday, July 3rd hit, there was a break in that pattern.  I went to the early mass at a local parish, St. Agnes, and found it ironic to be recognized  as I was back-pewing it.

Monday was the holiday- Quiet, no big shakes. Tuesday we were back to work, but with diminished staff.  A quick staff prayer was had, but it was challenging to kick it back in after such a low-key four day break.  Did labor away at finishing off elementary curriculum. And the evening brought a new banner to the blog. (Look up!)

Wednesday was great meeting for planning of our youth contact meeting in September with our guest presenters.  We usually office staff it but not this year.  Our Next Horizons commitment on social justice programming encouraged us to look this direction for Youth Contact topic as well.  Beyond that, I personally find the democratic approach of sharing bully pulpit time rather appealing. The presenting team hatched up an interesting design.

Thursday was a day-away e-team meeting.  Extensive prayer, a “web” portrayal of the past year were elements of the day. 

Friday found me in the office following up on the day before and preparing for the week to come.  A Hearts on Fire retreat for young adults was Friday evening into Saturday and Saturday evening featured a return visit of APeX to our area.