learning sessions 2007
 

But Going To Mass Is Soooo Boring
Mr. Bill Hathaway, Director of Religious Education, St. Edward (Lowell)
OK, you’re sitting in Mass with your family and you're really not getting anything out of it. Why do your parents make you go? Everybody (priests, parents, grandparents, catechists, youth ministers - everybody!) tells you that going to Mass is the most important thing that you do every week, but that just doesn't seem right. This learning session will look at the Mass in different ways than you probably have in the past. We'll talk about what active participation in the Mass means, what's behind some of the symbols, actions and words and why, if you understand what's really happening, the Mass can never be boring. Why is attending Mass really the most important thing you'll do every week? Come find out!


What is this youth ministry stuff all about?
Mrs. Kimberley Hoogeveen, Youth Ministry Coordinator, St. Maria Goretti (Dyer) &
Mrs. AnnMarie Keene, TAPT Retreat Board member, Diocese of Gary
If your definition of “Church” is limited to Sunday Mass and Religious Ed, you’re missing out! Learning about your faith is important, but LIVING your faith, well, THAT’S exciting! Mrs. Hoogeveen has been introducing young people to the exciting world of youth ministry for years, and she’ll help open your eyes to a whole new world of faith exploration!


What it means to be a “True Girl” (young ladies only!)
Mrs. Samantha Obbagy, Director of Ministries, St. John the Evangelist (St. John)
You’re more than just unique: you were created in the image and likeness of God! All too often young ladies get too caught up in the world’s image of what a girl should look or act like. Together we’ll explore what it means to be a true girl, beautiful in the eyes of God!


The Elephant in Your Youth Room (adults only, round 2)
Mr. Jim Chesnes, Youth Ministry & Confirmation Coord., St. Paul of the Cross (North Palm Beach, FL)
How do you help young people begin the healing process following a crisis, whether it be depression, a sudden death, or the break-up of a relationship? How do you recognize the symptoms of increased emotional distress that occur following a crisis situation in a young person’s life? This session is designed to help adults develop the skills needed to fashion an appropriate pastoral care response that includes prayer and advocacy, and when necessary, referral to trained professionals. The need to care for the caregivers will also be addressed.