Diocesan Youth Council Bylaws
Diocese of Gary

General Description

The Diocesan Youth Council is an advisory body to the Diocesan Office for Youth & Young Adults (OYYA). It is a group of youth who represent the parishes and Catholic high schools in the Catholic Diocese of Gary. The members of this body will advise the Office in two ways. First, they act as a spokesperson for the needs of youth in their parishes and schools. Second, they will be an integral part of the planning and implementation of youth activities that encourage and support total youth ministry in the diocese.

The Youth Council will consist of two representatives from parishes and Catholic high schools throughout the Diocese.

Selection Process

The Pastors, Principals and Youth Ministers of each of the respective parishes and schools are asked to collaboratively select two young people to represent them on the Youth Council.

The following characteristics and qualifications will be expected from those chosen to serve on the Diocesan Youth Council.

The Members of the Diocesan Youth Council are Catholic youth of high school age who:

·          are active in their parish and school

·          are pursuing a growing relationship with Jesus Christ

 ·          are committed to their beliefs

·          are willing to speak on behalf of their peers

·          are dedicated to leadership and Christian service

·          understand and promote youth ministry

Responsibilities

·         Attend all Youth Council gatherings.  Each member is expected to notify the Office of Youth Ministry before the meeting if he/she cannot be present and why.  If a member has more than one unexcused absence she/he may be removed from the council. 

 ·         Participate in the Youth Ministry conference offered by OYYA during the summer, as well as other diocesan events, including, but not limited to, TAPT & Youth Rallies.

·         Assist in the planning and implementation of Diocesan Youth Ministry activities.

·         Serve as a communicator for OYYA in spreading information about various programs throughout the year.

·         Coordinate and encourage youth ministry efforts in parishes and schools.

·         Meet with adult youth leaders at least once a month to discuss DYC agenda items.

Accountability

Each member of the Diocesan Youth Council is accountable to the Coordinator of the OYYA.

 Benefits

 ·         Continued leadership training

·         Christian fellowship, prayer and fun

·         Opportunity to minister in the Church

·         A voice in Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Gary

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