Many parents and young people begin high school wondering what they need to do be confirmed.  Here's the amazing thing...Confirmation (all the sacraments, really) are an unearned gift of love and grace from God.  There is not test we have to pass or special deed we must perform to earn the Sacrament of Confirmation!  Isnt' that a relief?? 

However, it is important that we understand the sacrament so that we can fully recognize the gift of grac e that we are receiving.  High school is an amazing time to explore our faith.  Young people have so many wonderful questions, incredible insights, and hearts for service.  We love that they are ready to ask the hard questions.  As adolescents, our young people are maturing in so many ways - it is important to recognize that their faith is maturing as well.

Our faith formation program is designed to help young people have a safe and supportive place to ask their questions about God, but also to inform them about the teachings of Jesus and the Catholic Church.       We believe that faith formation begins with a relationship - just like the two friends walking on the road to Emmaus.  Teens do not want to take this journey alone.  We provide opportunities for everyone to get to know each other and their small group leaders.  The next person who we want them to meet on the journey, of course, is Jesus Christ.  These goals of relationship with each other and Jesus are met through small group ministry,  and regular opportunities to serve and pray together.  9th and 10th grade students will have opportunities to volunteer at Lazarus House.  We have overnight retreat opportunities for our 10th grade students prior to Confirmation.
 

Our youth ministry program serves our high school community to help teens grow in the knowledge of the faith, in their relationship with God and the value of being part of a loving Christian community. Jesus sent his apostles out to “go and make disciples.” The Youth Ministry program responds to this call with social opportunities (Mystery All-Nighter, anyone?), service, prayer and retreats for all grade levels. Open to ALL high school teens!  If you are high school teen, you are welcome here.

Service also plays an integral role in equipping our youth to live the Gospel message in their daily lives. We offer opportunities to volunteer at Christmas in the City, serve lunch at Lazarus House, and multiple mission trips opportunities every summer. 

To find updated information on what is currently offered, check out:
Facebook Groups: AppleValley Catholic Youth Ministry
Instagram:  @AVCCYM

Every teen is encouraged to get involved in Youth Ministry and our faith community - you are a needed and important part of our Church!  Teens in 9th-12th grade can join our Teen Leadership Committee, our Teen Choir or play an instrument at Mass.  All confirmed teens are encouraged to become Confirmation Peer Leaders or serve the community as lectors, eucharistic ministers.  To learn more click here: Teen Leadership Opportunities

For more information or to ask questions please contact:

Coordinator of Youth Ministry:  Sheila