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Increasing Our Prophets

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Middle School Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Raleigh

Many of us had life-shaping experiences during our early adolescence. In fact, according to recent research from the Barna Research group, the vast majority of people surveyed indicated that they had their first significant spiritual experience ("conversion") at 14 years of age or younger. The prophets of the church of today and tomorrow are in our midst. Our opportunity and our calling to increase these prophets and, therefore, increase the church, is right before our eyes.

The Diocesan Office of Youth Ministry and ministry leaders throughout the diocese have been focusing on this age group and what we as church can do to foster faith in them. Through a symposium on middle school youth ministry, data gathering through focus groups, etc., and the formation of a Task Group on Middle School Youth Ministry, we present this packet to you in hopes it will assist you in your ministry to young adolescents.

  • Increasing Our Prophets: Middle School Youth Ministry in the Diocese of Raleigh (Word - 6MB)
    This new document explores the reality of early adolescence and the Church's response to this ministry. Please read and share this document with as many people as possible to increase awareness and responsiveness to the needs of our middle school youth.
  • Tool Kit for Implementing Middle School Youth Ministry:
    These resources (including a discussion guide for the document, bulletin insert, parent's guide to the early adolescent years, and a planning guide for establishing a comprehensive youth ministry program for 6th -8th grade youth., as well as other resources) are valuable and timely resources that will help you create or enhance your ministry efforts for middle school youth.
    • How to Use this Toolkit PDF | Word
    • Bulletin Flyer PDF | Word
    • Event Flyer PDF | Word
    • Discussion Guide: Increasing our Prophets PDF | Word
    • Planning Guide: Increasing our Prophets PDF | Word
    • A Parent's Guide to Fostering Faith in their Early Adolescent PDF | Word
    • Bibliography PDF | Word
    • Who to Contact for Help
      For a list of contacts, call (919) 821-9770 or email hagarty@raldioc.org.

Youth Ministers' Institute (PDF)
The Annual Youth Ministers' Institute is an opportunity to gather for adults who work with middle school and high school aged youth in parishes and schools. It is a time for professional and spiritual development, networking, relaxation, and renewal.