Hello!! Happy Monday to all of you!!
First and foremost, I have been overthinking all week about my blog from last week. If anyone of you read it, and I made it sound like teachers should not lock their doors to get work done, I did not mean that. On the contrary, you must have boundaries and set side time aside to do work. I just meant that alot of staff figure I should do the same thing. Unfortunately, I do have to lock my doors once and awhile to get paperwork done, but I really need to strive to available to build relationships with the students. Thats the most important part of my job.
ANYWAYS,
I just came in to my office after practicing a Flash Mob with a few students that we are planning on presenting to the entire school at lunch next week! They have so much courage! The fact that they are doing this random dance and making a fool out of themselves tells me that they don't care what others think of them. That's Awesome!!! They're just having fun doing something that's kind of cool and they don't care about those students that might think it's weird or something!
I think we are called to be like that in our faith! We can't be afraid to say something or to stand up for something that we believe in, even if it makes us look weird. Being with God is the ultimate gift we get in heaven, so why should anything else matter? So remember, if you can Flash Mob! You Can Share God! I am so proud of my super team members that are in this Flash Mob-and if you don't know what a flash mob is, it's a planned out dance that happens randomly when not alot of other people are expecting it! So fun!!!
Alot of the flash mobbers come from a little club in the school called the Yugio club! This was a club that one of the grade 11 students wanted to get started and asked if I could help them set up a room during lunch hours. It has now been called the "Nerd Room", ...and they are proud of it! haha!! Honestly, these are not the students that I would expect to come out and dance in front of the school. Alot of them are shy and alittle reserved, but I think this club has given them a purpose, and a community where they can be themselves. It's pretty cool!
I guess the point of this blog entry today is, never underestimate how you can reach out to others. It's as simple as helping students open a yugio club, to just being there when they need help on an assignment.
Have a wonderful monday! God Bless everyone!!
P.S. Stay tuned! We have exciting news for our school chapel!! :)
Monday, January 27, 2014
Monday, January 20, 2014
You Can't Just Sit There! And the CCYMN Conference!
It's been 4 and half years since I started working here at Notre Dame Highschool in Red Deer! And there have been many crazy experiences! Many laughs! Many tears! And many changes!
Every time I attend a conference, I am so incredibly blessed to be with fellow catholic youth ministers that "Get it"
I once told a support staff this year at the school, that she is in fact a Youth Minister. And she started laughing and thought that was weird because she wasn't religious. I also get told on a regular basis, that I can lock my doors of my office and not let students in because they don't need to bug me. (Which-I have done only on mondays so that I can get work done), but it seems as though, people don't get what a youth minister is!
All of us staff at this school, I believe, are youth ministers! We are helping young people graduate! We are helping them succeed in life! We are helping and forming them to become wonderful young adults! That's what a youth minister is! We are building relationships with the these students! We are getting to know them, and we are there for them if they are in need!
I know for most teachers, locking your door to get work done is normal, but I want to be available to these students, that's what a youth minister should be doing! Not worrying about the paperwork so much, or managing your time to work on that when you know you won't be distracted by students!
It's all about the relationship!
I had the opportunity this past weekend to attend the CCYMN Conference-which stands for-The Canadian Catholic Youth Ministry Network! It was held in Saskatoon, Sask! We had 220 youth ministry oriented people attend the conference! From actual youth ministry coordinators, to clergy, to parents and to teachers! It was an inspiring weekend filled with so much encouragement and affirmation!
One of the biggest themes of the weekend with our guest speaker-Frank Mercadante was this-Do simple things and encourage others!! Don't stress about the big stuff! Just do little things well! Be intentionally courteous! Try to affirm the people you are around! Let the students know you are praying for them, and that you appreciate them!
One other huge thing I got out of this weekend is that we MUST reach out to the Teachers/Staff at the school, and the Parents! This is huge! I, as a youth minister do not see the students as much as these role models. It is important to build relationships with the staff and with the parents! This is something I realize I lack. I tend to get intimidated or worried about judgement, but after 4 and half years of this position in the school, it is time! It is time for a big change! I want to strive to bring our staff closer together and to not only build relationships with each other, but even more with the students. We need the staff at our schools to really know Jesus Christ in their lives. Then they will "get it"! They'll know that they are youth ministers! Molding and building relationships with the students that they encounter everyday! Fundamentally, Jesus, MUST be at the center, otherwise, we're just teaching, and in a catholic school system, it needs to obviously be more than that!
And secondly, the parents need to encounter Jesus in us! This is definately a challenge in a highschool! We don't see those parents very often. But to connect with them, will be a goal that I will strive to work on.
I will close this Blog with a story that Frank Mercadante shared at our conference, about a man in the 1980's who decided to tie a bunch of helium balloons to a lawn chair. Not anticipating too much he sat in the lawn chair and cut the rope, and to his surprise the balloons, along with him shot up straight in the air to 16,000 feet! This man was eventually rescued before he went over the Pacific ocean, and when he was safe and on the ground, the authorities asked him why he did this, and the man said-"Because you can't just sit There"
We can't just sit there! If we truly believe in God, and desire heaven, we can't just sit and do nothing. We have a responsibility to love others enough to help them to get to heaven too. And that means building relationships and being there for one another.
If you're just sitting there, what are you going to now, to be a youth minster in the lives of the young people we meet everyday?
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
We All Survived the End of the World on Dec. 21st 2012!! Praise God!
Good Morning!
If you are reading this blog, it means that you survived the End of the World! Congrats!
It's amazing how much people worried about that day, when it says in the bible that we will not know the time or day that the world will end. We only know to live our lives as holy people of God and to try and be ready at all times, because in reality we have know idea when we could die.
At any rate, as my post for today, I cannot say enough how blessed I am to be working in a highschool with amazing students! I went for a doctor's appointment yesterday, and the results of my test was a little upsetting. I was a bit emotional at school, when I got back to work. I was trying to fake being happy, and of course of a few of the students that hang out in my office, noticed that. Three boys decided to take it upon themselves to sing me songs to cheer me up. What entertainment that was! haha! It was wonderful, and completely changed my day! These students really know how to serve one another, and get satisfaction in doing so. I think we all need to remember to take time to appreciate each other and to show it in creative ways, like these students did for me!
I cannot say enough how hard it must be for the average teenager to overcome the pressures of everyday influences. I know we've all been there. The thing that baffles me, is the amount of students, that once they graduate and become an adult, more things are acceptable, and considered "normal" and "okay", and alot of people lose the morals they grew up in. Why is it that when someone turns 18, all of a sudden, at a college party, it's acceptable to smoke pot? why is it okay to go to the bar and get drunk every weekend? why is it okay to look at porn? I mean, there is a point where we all tend to grow up and mature...but how are these things considered mature? I worry about the students that have graduated in the last few years. For the most part, alot of them are doing really well, but also for alot of them, their faith gets put on the backburner and their conscience doesn't exsist anymore, because they've become adults, and "in charge"..
I guess the question is, how do we keep our graduated students on the right road to Christ? And still have a good conscience? Is it serving in some way? Is it pushing to keep up the sacraments? This is a super huge challenge and one that I definately need more prayer and help with!
Anyways, wonderful people, have a great day! Enjoy everyday like it's your last, cause for all we know, the end of the world could be tomorrow!
God Bless,
Jeannette Manser
Youth Ministry Coordinator
Notre Dame Highschool
If you are reading this blog, it means that you survived the End of the World! Congrats!
It's amazing how much people worried about that day, when it says in the bible that we will not know the time or day that the world will end. We only know to live our lives as holy people of God and to try and be ready at all times, because in reality we have know idea when we could die.
At any rate, as my post for today, I cannot say enough how blessed I am to be working in a highschool with amazing students! I went for a doctor's appointment yesterday, and the results of my test was a little upsetting. I was a bit emotional at school, when I got back to work. I was trying to fake being happy, and of course of a few of the students that hang out in my office, noticed that. Three boys decided to take it upon themselves to sing me songs to cheer me up. What entertainment that was! haha! It was wonderful, and completely changed my day! These students really know how to serve one another, and get satisfaction in doing so. I think we all need to remember to take time to appreciate each other and to show it in creative ways, like these students did for me!
I cannot say enough how hard it must be for the average teenager to overcome the pressures of everyday influences. I know we've all been there. The thing that baffles me, is the amount of students, that once they graduate and become an adult, more things are acceptable, and considered "normal" and "okay", and alot of people lose the morals they grew up in. Why is it that when someone turns 18, all of a sudden, at a college party, it's acceptable to smoke pot? why is it okay to go to the bar and get drunk every weekend? why is it okay to look at porn? I mean, there is a point where we all tend to grow up and mature...but how are these things considered mature? I worry about the students that have graduated in the last few years. For the most part, alot of them are doing really well, but also for alot of them, their faith gets put on the backburner and their conscience doesn't exsist anymore, because they've become adults, and "in charge"..
I guess the question is, how do we keep our graduated students on the right road to Christ? And still have a good conscience? Is it serving in some way? Is it pushing to keep up the sacraments? This is a super huge challenge and one that I definately need more prayer and help with!
Anyways, wonderful people, have a great day! Enjoy everyday like it's your last, cause for all we know, the end of the world could be tomorrow!
God Bless,
Jeannette Manser
Youth Ministry Coordinator
Notre Dame Highschool
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
I want to be on Good Soil!
Good Morning Everyone!
Well, Autumn is here and it's good to be back in the school working! It's been a very busy month so far, and I'm super grateful for all of my upcoming helpers on my Super Team, as well as, eager teachers to help with my LifeTeen Nights!
I'm running chapel times for religion classes this week, and I have them do a skit of the Parable of the Sower and the Seeds!
To most people this is a pretty familiar story where the farmer sows seeds, some seeds get eaten right away by birds and don't even have a chance of living. Some seeds fall on rocky ground, but with no good soil, the sun burns them up and they die. Then some seeds fall on thorny ground and the seeds end up getting choked up by the thorns and die. Then the farmer sows seeds onto good soil, and they grow to be strong and healthy.
I want to be on Good Soil! I think most of you would agree, that most of us are striving for good soil, but we all struggle and we all deal with circumstances and situations that might be a little "rocky", or "thorny". We want to be better, but the "thorns' or "sins" are holding us back from what God has in store for us!
So, this will be a short message this morning, but strive for Good soil! Avoid sin, temptation, and things that may not help you do what God's will is for you!
Also, remember that we are all farmers and we have the ability to sow the seeds as well! Help plant the seeds in one another! Help each other feel loved and supported! Lead them to Christ! For he is love! Be kind to one another for we are all created for greatness! Each and every one of us!
Happy Tuesday everyone!
P.S. I started a Boot Camp exercise program this morning and nearly died! I felt like the seed stuck in the thorns because I want to strive to be more healthy but I haven't for so long that it was extremely difficult! But I'm striving for the good!!
Never give up on yourself!!
Well, Autumn is here and it's good to be back in the school working! It's been a very busy month so far, and I'm super grateful for all of my upcoming helpers on my Super Team, as well as, eager teachers to help with my LifeTeen Nights!
I'm running chapel times for religion classes this week, and I have them do a skit of the Parable of the Sower and the Seeds!
To most people this is a pretty familiar story where the farmer sows seeds, some seeds get eaten right away by birds and don't even have a chance of living. Some seeds fall on rocky ground, but with no good soil, the sun burns them up and they die. Then some seeds fall on thorny ground and the seeds end up getting choked up by the thorns and die. Then the farmer sows seeds onto good soil, and they grow to be strong and healthy.
I want to be on Good Soil! I think most of you would agree, that most of us are striving for good soil, but we all struggle and we all deal with circumstances and situations that might be a little "rocky", or "thorny". We want to be better, but the "thorns' or "sins" are holding us back from what God has in store for us!
So, this will be a short message this morning, but strive for Good soil! Avoid sin, temptation, and things that may not help you do what God's will is for you!
Also, remember that we are all farmers and we have the ability to sow the seeds as well! Help plant the seeds in one another! Help each other feel loved and supported! Lead them to Christ! For he is love! Be kind to one another for we are all created for greatness! Each and every one of us!
Happy Tuesday everyone!
P.S. I started a Boot Camp exercise program this morning and nearly died! I felt like the seed stuck in the thorns because I want to strive to be more healthy but I haven't for so long that it was extremely difficult! But I'm striving for the good!!
Never give up on yourself!!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
I AM WCACYM!
Happy Summer everyone! I sit here in class on a rainy july morning at Summer Sem in Saskatoon SK! I cannot say how blessed and affirming it is to have the opportunity to hang out with some of my very favorite youth ministers to refresh, learn, and to brainstorm my upcoming youth ministry year.
It makes me realize I'm not the only weird one! That everyone else is on the same wave length!
Youth Minsistry is really a business. It's a business in which we as ministers help to lead youth, as well, as lead others to Jesus through our example. Even if it means just sitting with students for a coffee. Building relationships before preaching is crucial to help them feel open to God.
However, sometimes I try too hard to organize too many events and activities and I get overwhelmed. I have learned this week, that Ministry is not my own!! It's everyone's responsibility, and I'm just the coordinator that helps to develop it and make it happen.
There will be many changes in my program this coming year at Notre Dame. I want to develop a LifeTeen Night for highschool students only. I'm super pumped! I ask for your prayers on this!
So as I sit at Summer Sem, my brain is going crazy with ideas and excitement for my students.
If you are a youth minister, and you're struggling with your ministry always remember that Growth happens when we're uncomfortable, and we must learn to lead by learning to follow. Be a servant leader! Servant leaders can risk serving others because they trust that God is in control of their lives.
I cannot say how amazing Summer Sem is, and if you're wondering-WCACYM stands for Western Canadian Association of Catholic Youth Ministers! What a blessed organization! It's good to be here!
I Am WCACYM!!
It makes me realize I'm not the only weird one! That everyone else is on the same wave length!
Youth Minsistry is really a business. It's a business in which we as ministers help to lead youth, as well, as lead others to Jesus through our example. Even if it means just sitting with students for a coffee. Building relationships before preaching is crucial to help them feel open to God.
However, sometimes I try too hard to organize too many events and activities and I get overwhelmed. I have learned this week, that Ministry is not my own!! It's everyone's responsibility, and I'm just the coordinator that helps to develop it and make it happen.
There will be many changes in my program this coming year at Notre Dame. I want to develop a LifeTeen Night for highschool students only. I'm super pumped! I ask for your prayers on this!
So as I sit at Summer Sem, my brain is going crazy with ideas and excitement for my students.
If you are a youth minister, and you're struggling with your ministry always remember that Growth happens when we're uncomfortable, and we must learn to lead by learning to follow. Be a servant leader! Servant leaders can risk serving others because they trust that God is in control of their lives.
I cannot say how amazing Summer Sem is, and if you're wondering-WCACYM stands for Western Canadian Association of Catholic Youth Ministers! What a blessed organization! It's good to be here!
I Am WCACYM!!
Friday, May 25, 2012
Soap Opera of the Youth Ministry Office...umm...
I remember when I first started going to Our Lady of Victory Camp at 15yrs old and my friends and I had crushes on all these boys. One in particular was always seeking attention, and everyone liked him. I will never forget being in line for snack with this other girl, and he came up behind us, and was like "Ladies! Mind if I join you?" He put his arms around our shoulders, and both my friend and I were on cloud nine. Needless to say, he just wanted to cut the line, and that was his way of doing that.
10yrs ago as a team member out at camp, I met my husband, and got engaged and got married all in less than a year. We had met at camp, and it was special because God was definately on the same wave length for both of us!
Having a Youth Minstry office in the high school here in good ol' Red Deer has many advantages. However, with those also come....wait for it!!!! The Drama!!!!! duh duh duh!!!
It's hard to believe that little boyfriend/girlfriend relationships happen because they become a part of the super team, or hang out in my office! The awkward part is, these relationships usually last about a month and then die, and then it's weird having them both come visit me.
I also think I probably know more about their relationship problems than most of their friends! haha! And thus the drama begins.
With close nit communities of students involved with my programs, comes that drama. Every community-even nuns who live in a convent, will have some sort of drama. There's no escaping it!
I have to leave my office pretty quick here to greet my friend John-Paul farewell as he becomes a franciscan brother, but my point is, Drama is everywhere. We just need to know how to handle it, in a mature way.
When you're close with someone you're not always going to get along with them, because you might have a different opinion on something. That's okay. It's important to avoid gossip and judgement, and be the christian example and talk to that person. And offer them up in prayer. Jesus didn't die on the cross for us to just do this on our own.
Anyways, I'm happy to finally get this blog done! Have a great weekend everyone!!
Your Sister in Christ,
Jeannette
10yrs ago as a team member out at camp, I met my husband, and got engaged and got married all in less than a year. We had met at camp, and it was special because God was definately on the same wave length for both of us!
Having a Youth Minstry office in the high school here in good ol' Red Deer has many advantages. However, with those also come....wait for it!!!! The Drama!!!!! duh duh duh!!!
It's hard to believe that little boyfriend/girlfriend relationships happen because they become a part of the super team, or hang out in my office! The awkward part is, these relationships usually last about a month and then die, and then it's weird having them both come visit me.
I also think I probably know more about their relationship problems than most of their friends! haha! And thus the drama begins.
With close nit communities of students involved with my programs, comes that drama. Every community-even nuns who live in a convent, will have some sort of drama. There's no escaping it!
I have to leave my office pretty quick here to greet my friend John-Paul farewell as he becomes a franciscan brother, but my point is, Drama is everywhere. We just need to know how to handle it, in a mature way.
When you're close with someone you're not always going to get along with them, because you might have a different opinion on something. That's okay. It's important to avoid gossip and judgement, and be the christian example and talk to that person. And offer them up in prayer. Jesus didn't die on the cross for us to just do this on our own.
Anyways, I'm happy to finally get this blog done! Have a great weekend everyone!!
Your Sister in Christ,
Jeannette
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
How to De-stress during Finals!!!
So..I drove in this morning from Innisfail, and the roads were pretty ugly. It stressed me out so much driving in my little car down icy roads, with cars behind me wanting to pass me cause I drive so slow! So how do I de-stress from all of this?
To take time to give it to Jesus! Seriously!! Like Legit! If you take just alittle bit of time of silence, to focus on him and ask him to take it away, it makes you feel a whole lot better. Wednesdays at lunch at Notre Dame, there is an opportunity to pray in the chapel, to be silent, to just give all your cares to God. I love it! It renews my whole day!!
So..if any students are reading this-give your stress to God, for he died for you, and is willing to do anything for you!! Teachers and staff-you too! I know this is a stressful time as you submit marks,etc. Give to God. It's kind of like that Bruno Mars Song-Grenade but not really!!
Do you remember those spiritual resolutions I talked about before? How are yours going? Me? well, funny you should ask...haha! ...uh..cough! It's err good!! No actually it's going well. I've had a few late nights of youth ministry certificate homework so praying with Kevin has been hard this week. Working out-well...staying late in Red Deer has been a challenge because of bad roads and such, so I'm going tonight in Innisfail for sure!! I will keep going!! And God will give me strength!!
Anyhow, have a wonderful snowy day!! Stay tuned for my next blog-Little Bo Peep has Lost her Sheep!!
To take time to give it to Jesus! Seriously!! Like Legit! If you take just alittle bit of time of silence, to focus on him and ask him to take it away, it makes you feel a whole lot better. Wednesdays at lunch at Notre Dame, there is an opportunity to pray in the chapel, to be silent, to just give all your cares to God. I love it! It renews my whole day!!
So..if any students are reading this-give your stress to God, for he died for you, and is willing to do anything for you!! Teachers and staff-you too! I know this is a stressful time as you submit marks,etc. Give to God. It's kind of like that Bruno Mars Song-Grenade but not really!!
Do you remember those spiritual resolutions I talked about before? How are yours going? Me? well, funny you should ask...haha! ...uh..cough! It's err good!! No actually it's going well. I've had a few late nights of youth ministry certificate homework so praying with Kevin has been hard this week. Working out-well...staying late in Red Deer has been a challenge because of bad roads and such, so I'm going tonight in Innisfail for sure!! I will keep going!! And God will give me strength!!
Anyhow, have a wonderful snowy day!! Stay tuned for my next blog-Little Bo Peep has Lost her Sheep!!
Friday, January 7, 2011
It BURNS!!!!!
It burns!! Jesus' fire burns within me..... and so do my legs and back from the amount of exercising I've done in the last week....
So, last week, I challenged everyone to a spiritual resolution, and I would keep you posted on my progress!
Well, I think I'm not doing too badly! I've worked out everyday! Feeling good, and energetic! As well as, I made a prayer schedule for Kevin and I to try and follow every night. We've been doing actually pretty good with all this structure!
So for me who is never good at punctuality can do this stuff and really make the effort, so can all of you!!
What a difference it makes to start and end your day with a little prayer of thanks to God for all that he does for us. God truely gives us the energy that we need to keep going when times are tough, and even times are great! It's all a blessing and a gift!
Hope you're spiritual resolutions are going well! I suggest the prayer and exercise schedule! Let me know how you are all doing as well with this!
Have a blessed weekend!!
So, last week, I challenged everyone to a spiritual resolution, and I would keep you posted on my progress!
Well, I think I'm not doing too badly! I've worked out everyday! Feeling good, and energetic! As well as, I made a prayer schedule for Kevin and I to try and follow every night. We've been doing actually pretty good with all this structure!
So for me who is never good at punctuality can do this stuff and really make the effort, so can all of you!!
What a difference it makes to start and end your day with a little prayer of thanks to God for all that he does for us. God truely gives us the energy that we need to keep going when times are tough, and even times are great! It's all a blessing and a gift!
Hope you're spiritual resolutions are going well! I suggest the prayer and exercise schedule! Let me know how you are all doing as well with this!
Have a blessed weekend!!
Monday, December 27, 2010
New Year's Spiritual Resolutions anyone?
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all had a truely blessed holiday season!!
This morning, my husband and I took my grandpa out for lunch! It was a great visit, although, I had a feeling he was going to mention to me how much weight I put on since last year. Just when I thought that conversation wasn't going to happen, and my husband paid for our bill, he says: "Jeannette, when was that Knights of Columbus dance thing I came to last year?" and my husband says: "Last April", and my grandpa replies: "You've gained some weight since then."
I knew it!!! Ugh! I didn't want to hear, but I knew it was true, and most definately one of my resolutions this year is to get myself into shape! Especially as the Central Alberta World Youth Day Group head to Spain in the summer, and we will be backpacking through it!
It's funny how our resolutions mostly involve the physical aspects of us-eating better, getting into shape, looking better, etc. but what about the spiritual? We are all sinners, and we tend to forget that we have spiritual needs just as much as the physical. I for one will be trying to say a rosary with my husband every night. It's sure a hard thing to do, but man, I need a better relationship with Jesus. How can we expect him to work in our lives, if we're not even paying attention to him? to the one that created us? to our ultimate best friend?
What will your spiritual resolution be?
We could have the most fit body, and be eating the most healthy of food, but will that get us in the end when we die? God doesn't judge us on our beautiful looks, but on our beautiful soul!
Whoever is reading this-LISTEN UP!! Maybe your spiritual resolution could be to pray for the young people in your classes, in your parishes, offer up a sacrifice for them! It's simple and would take 5 minutes!
Also-all you young people out there-and I'm talking 18-35yrs!! You should check out the Our Lady of Victory Camp New Year's Eve Conference!! A beautiful way to enrich our catholic faith and have a tonne of fellowship and fun as well! olvc.ab.ca is where you can register!
Have a great New Year's everyone, and try to have a spiritual resolution as well as the physical! That is my challenge for my self as well, and you know what? I will even help motivate you all by keeping you posted on here!
God Bless!
This morning, my husband and I took my grandpa out for lunch! It was a great visit, although, I had a feeling he was going to mention to me how much weight I put on since last year. Just when I thought that conversation wasn't going to happen, and my husband paid for our bill, he says: "Jeannette, when was that Knights of Columbus dance thing I came to last year?" and my husband says: "Last April", and my grandpa replies: "You've gained some weight since then."
I knew it!!! Ugh! I didn't want to hear, but I knew it was true, and most definately one of my resolutions this year is to get myself into shape! Especially as the Central Alberta World Youth Day Group head to Spain in the summer, and we will be backpacking through it!
It's funny how our resolutions mostly involve the physical aspects of us-eating better, getting into shape, looking better, etc. but what about the spiritual? We are all sinners, and we tend to forget that we have spiritual needs just as much as the physical. I for one will be trying to say a rosary with my husband every night. It's sure a hard thing to do, but man, I need a better relationship with Jesus. How can we expect him to work in our lives, if we're not even paying attention to him? to the one that created us? to our ultimate best friend?
What will your spiritual resolution be?
We could have the most fit body, and be eating the most healthy of food, but will that get us in the end when we die? God doesn't judge us on our beautiful looks, but on our beautiful soul!
Whoever is reading this-LISTEN UP!! Maybe your spiritual resolution could be to pray for the young people in your classes, in your parishes, offer up a sacrifice for them! It's simple and would take 5 minutes!
Also-all you young people out there-and I'm talking 18-35yrs!! You should check out the Our Lady of Victory Camp New Year's Eve Conference!! A beautiful way to enrich our catholic faith and have a tonne of fellowship and fun as well! olvc.ab.ca is where you can register!
Have a great New Year's everyone, and try to have a spiritual resolution as well as the physical! That is my challenge for my self as well, and you know what? I will even help motivate you all by keeping you posted on here!
God Bless!
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Religion in the class and spiritual practices
A few years ago, I was visiting my Aunt in Calgary and she was telling me how well my cousin Sarah was doing in school. She had the one of the highest marks in religion. My Aunt was extremely proud.
She went on to tell me that she was concerned with Sarah because she was starting to go to another church and didn't want to go to the catholic church anymore with my Aunt. She had friends at the other church, and the music was upbeat and cool. She told me that they pushed Sarah to go to both that church with her friend and the catholic church. Sarah complained because she didn't understand why she had to go to church twice.
I asked my Aunt, "Well, does she understand the importance of the Mass?" And my aunt was like, "Oh, well yes, she has the highest mark in Religion." And I thought to myself,..well, that's great, but that doesn't mean she understands the faith spiritually.
I think we forget sometimes that we can have all the knowledge in the world, but if we don't feel it, see it, experience it, we won't get it. Alot of people go to church as routine all their lives, not really knowing why, only knowing that if they go, they hopefully will go to heaven.
Our faith is more than routine, it's a relationship.
It's getting to know Jesus in a special way, realizing that the Eucharist is Jesus, physically present for us to experience and to have.
In Youth Ministry, I meet such a diversity of students and staff that come from so many backgrounds. The biggest thing that I feel God calls us to do for one another is to form a relationship with them and meet them where they're at.
The biggest challenge in my ministry is ministering to those who do not know God personally, who don't have that relationship.
St. Francis says preach the gospel at all times and when necessary use words.
My desire is that students will choose their faith by seeing the examples of their peers and staff. I'm not saying to not talk about God, but for some students-to start talking about it as if they already know him, would shut out the communication you have with them.
My ministry is not to "Teach" Religion and the aspects of the faith, but to "Show" my love for my religion and the aspects of the faith.
She went on to tell me that she was concerned with Sarah because she was starting to go to another church and didn't want to go to the catholic church anymore with my Aunt. She had friends at the other church, and the music was upbeat and cool. She told me that they pushed Sarah to go to both that church with her friend and the catholic church. Sarah complained because she didn't understand why she had to go to church twice.
I asked my Aunt, "Well, does she understand the importance of the Mass?" And my aunt was like, "Oh, well yes, she has the highest mark in Religion." And I thought to myself,..well, that's great, but that doesn't mean she understands the faith spiritually.
I think we forget sometimes that we can have all the knowledge in the world, but if we don't feel it, see it, experience it, we won't get it. Alot of people go to church as routine all their lives, not really knowing why, only knowing that if they go, they hopefully will go to heaven.
Our faith is more than routine, it's a relationship.
It's getting to know Jesus in a special way, realizing that the Eucharist is Jesus, physically present for us to experience and to have.
In Youth Ministry, I meet such a diversity of students and staff that come from so many backgrounds. The biggest thing that I feel God calls us to do for one another is to form a relationship with them and meet them where they're at.
The biggest challenge in my ministry is ministering to those who do not know God personally, who don't have that relationship.
St. Francis says preach the gospel at all times and when necessary use words.
My desire is that students will choose their faith by seeing the examples of their peers and staff. I'm not saying to not talk about God, but for some students-to start talking about it as if they already know him, would shut out the communication you have with them.
My ministry is not to "Teach" Religion and the aspects of the faith, but to "Show" my love for my religion and the aspects of the faith.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Fire, Fuzzy Slippers, Fire Breathing Frogs and Fantabulous Young People!
Yes! That was a random title-such is my life in youth ministry and student life!
God is so absolutely amazing in what he is doing in the lives of our young people! I attended a Lifeteen and Edge Youth Ministry Training in Ontario the past weekend, and I realized that you can only have so many programs and events for youth, but what is really going to grow them deeper into faith?
Things need to be random, simple and relational. It's not about the program, it's about meeting the students where they're at.
Christ says in the bible-Do not conform yourselves to this world, but make yourselves a living sacrifice for me. How beautiful! We are not meant for this world-we are meant for so much more.
I love working with highschool students because they are so honest with you about where they're at. I find it so much easier to have a conversation about Jesus with them, as opposed to an adult. Yes people! Teens long for love, long for acceptance, long for family, long for friends, long for trust, long for freedom, long for attention. They are hungry for a real legit relationship with God, whether they think they do or not.
After XLT Adoration at the LifeTeen Training on Saturday-I facebooked one of my students from the school, and I felt the Holy Spirit truely working within me to be bold! I told her that she was worthy of God, and that he loves her so much. And you know what? She's been coming more and more to events and asks questions about faith. I see her desire for a true relationship.
I love that I can have a Theology of the Body session, and then the next day, talk about having a Star Wars flash mob in the gathering area and act random.
So-let me ask all of you reading this? Why is the ministry so important for youth? Because they are the future of our church. But what about our present church? Are you alive with the Holy Spirit? Do you go to church as routine? or do you feel God's presence? Do you seek out Jesus in everyone you know? or do you focus on the negative things of life? The church is not just a set of rules about standing up, sitting down, singing, and listening to a Homily. There is a spiritual phenomenon going on. Jesus becomes truely present in the Eucharist. I think if everyone truely believed in this, we would never want to put anything of God, and Mass. It is the source and summit of our faith.
How do we teach our students how amazing our faith is, when we may not understand it ourselves? We have to seek out answers, we have to get involved in retreats, and church events that could revitalize our soul, and bring us to a stronger spiritual reality.
So in my randomness-let's grow deeper beyond-fuzzy slippers, fire breathing frogs, and show these students that they can embrace the mystery of faith, the mystery of the eucharist, the love that we long for.
Anyhow, as I sign off, I have a room full of students discussing faith issues, and I'm distracted! haha! Farewell Fantabulous people! God Bless You!!
God is so absolutely amazing in what he is doing in the lives of our young people! I attended a Lifeteen and Edge Youth Ministry Training in Ontario the past weekend, and I realized that you can only have so many programs and events for youth, but what is really going to grow them deeper into faith?
Things need to be random, simple and relational. It's not about the program, it's about meeting the students where they're at.
Christ says in the bible-Do not conform yourselves to this world, but make yourselves a living sacrifice for me. How beautiful! We are not meant for this world-we are meant for so much more.
I love working with highschool students because they are so honest with you about where they're at. I find it so much easier to have a conversation about Jesus with them, as opposed to an adult. Yes people! Teens long for love, long for acceptance, long for family, long for friends, long for trust, long for freedom, long for attention. They are hungry for a real legit relationship with God, whether they think they do or not.
After XLT Adoration at the LifeTeen Training on Saturday-I facebooked one of my students from the school, and I felt the Holy Spirit truely working within me to be bold! I told her that she was worthy of God, and that he loves her so much. And you know what? She's been coming more and more to events and asks questions about faith. I see her desire for a true relationship.
I love that I can have a Theology of the Body session, and then the next day, talk about having a Star Wars flash mob in the gathering area and act random.
So-let me ask all of you reading this? Why is the ministry so important for youth? Because they are the future of our church. But what about our present church? Are you alive with the Holy Spirit? Do you go to church as routine? or do you feel God's presence? Do you seek out Jesus in everyone you know? or do you focus on the negative things of life? The church is not just a set of rules about standing up, sitting down, singing, and listening to a Homily. There is a spiritual phenomenon going on. Jesus becomes truely present in the Eucharist. I think if everyone truely believed in this, we would never want to put anything of God, and Mass. It is the source and summit of our faith.
How do we teach our students how amazing our faith is, when we may not understand it ourselves? We have to seek out answers, we have to get involved in retreats, and church events that could revitalize our soul, and bring us to a stronger spiritual reality.
So in my randomness-let's grow deeper beyond-fuzzy slippers, fire breathing frogs, and show these students that they can embrace the mystery of faith, the mystery of the eucharist, the love that we long for.
Anyhow, as I sign off, I have a room full of students discussing faith issues, and I'm distracted! haha! Farewell Fantabulous people! God Bless You!!
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Choose Your Own Adventure Month!! Part 1
I know it's been a while since I last wrote, and as I sit here writing, I'm thinking...man! I should be in bed! haha!
Do you remember those books-choose your own adventure? And you read the book, and come to a spot where you have to choose between three possible scenarios and you pick one, and sometimes it makes your story end right away? This month reminds of such a story!
As I learn about youth ministry in the school system and explore the possibilities of new ideas and ventures, I am faced with many scenarios. For instance-Parent Appreciation night! This event-which I think will be fabulous, may flop because only 1 student told her parents, and it's in a week and a half.
I have a coffee house scheduled for next friday.....any entertainment scheduled?...no...not that I'm worried..it will come together, but you never know what's going to happen next.
Last night-XLT adoration was amazing!! There were students that attended that I never would have expected to step into church! It was awesome! Our Tim Horton's coffee visit after proved to be quite entertaining when all of us saw someone that looked like Nick Jonas off of the Disney Channel, and we started singing Jonas Brothers Songs. You know, that coffee time after an event, I think is essential in youth ministry-that's where you build relationships, and break down walls. I cherish those memories.
I'm excited to be working more at the Outreach School in Red Deer, and I have to say, that place is always an adventure, cause you never know who's going to be there. This week is appetizer week! See? An adventure..food! And people!! Woot!
Theology of the Body for Teens is a session I run after school on Wednesdays, and the number of students attending is amazing, and continues to grow. I love the fact that students are interested in knowing the truth behind love, sex, and marriage. I truely believe this is a group that could change the culture of the school.
Well, my next scenario in the choose your own adventure book is to go to bed! I know what you're thinking..."What? but that ends the story." You're right! Good night everyone! God Bless, and always remember that the adventure you choose can affect someone's life and bring them closer to God. Plant the seed-and someone else will help it to grow!
Do you remember those books-choose your own adventure? And you read the book, and come to a spot where you have to choose between three possible scenarios and you pick one, and sometimes it makes your story end right away? This month reminds of such a story!
As I learn about youth ministry in the school system and explore the possibilities of new ideas and ventures, I am faced with many scenarios. For instance-Parent Appreciation night! This event-which I think will be fabulous, may flop because only 1 student told her parents, and it's in a week and a half.
I have a coffee house scheduled for next friday.....any entertainment scheduled?...no...not that I'm worried..it will come together, but you never know what's going to happen next.
Last night-XLT adoration was amazing!! There were students that attended that I never would have expected to step into church! It was awesome! Our Tim Horton's coffee visit after proved to be quite entertaining when all of us saw someone that looked like Nick Jonas off of the Disney Channel, and we started singing Jonas Brothers Songs. You know, that coffee time after an event, I think is essential in youth ministry-that's where you build relationships, and break down walls. I cherish those memories.
I'm excited to be working more at the Outreach School in Red Deer, and I have to say, that place is always an adventure, cause you never know who's going to be there. This week is appetizer week! See? An adventure..food! And people!! Woot!
Theology of the Body for Teens is a session I run after school on Wednesdays, and the number of students attending is amazing, and continues to grow. I love the fact that students are interested in knowing the truth behind love, sex, and marriage. I truely believe this is a group that could change the culture of the school.
Well, my next scenario in the choose your own adventure book is to go to bed! I know what you're thinking..."What? but that ends the story." You're right! Good night everyone! God Bless, and always remember that the adventure you choose can affect someone's life and bring them closer to God. Plant the seed-and someone else will help it to grow!
Sunday, September 26, 2010
And the joy of the Lord keeps flowing!!!
Hello Everyone!! It has been awhile since I wrote on my blog! I have much to tell all of you!!
FATHER TONY!! The triumphant return of Father Tony to Red Deer Catholic Schools was a huge success!! Everyone welcomed him with open arms to talk about seeing Jesus in everyone-even the person you would least expect to walk through the gates of heaven one day. He also reminded us to Remember where you came from and Don't be Stupid.
My husband and I had to go to Calgary monday morning to pick him up at his hotel. I was super nervous. (I had seen Father Tony in the L.A. Catholic Congress, and he was pretty outspoken and awesome, and FAMOUS!!!!) So, needless to say, I was excited but nervous for him to be driven in my little cavilier when this man owns a Jaguar.
We got to his hotel, and to our surprise, he was pretty friendly and easy to talk to. We brought him to Camille Catholic Middle School to speak first to all the grade 9's in the divison. He had them laughing and thinking, especially when Father Tony said, there are 2 places you can go when you die-Heaven or Hell, and if you don't want to be a saint you go to hell. Haha!
John-Paul-the St. Dominic's Youth Minister and I along with the faith coordinator from the school board took Father Tony out for lunch. To my surprise, he wanted "real food", not vietnamese, not chinese. This man wanted a burger! He loves mcdonalds!!
So during lunch we chatted with him about the importance of youth ministry in the school system, and he was completely encouraging John-Paul and I with our jobs. That youth ministry is what a catholic school is all about. That's what makes it unique from a public school. He even said and I quote-"You know, if you are in a catholic school, you teach religion first-you are a minister of faith to the students first-then a teacher second. If you don't like that, then there are plenty of public schools that will take you in no problem."
Words of wisdom from Father Tony!
Anyhow, Father Tony-went to Rocky Mountain House Tuesday, and returned to Red Deer Tuesday night for a beautiful mass at St. Mary's. He then came to Notre Dame Wednesday to speak to the students and my Super Team led the school in a song, and had the opportunity to eat lunch with Father Tony and visit him. What an amazing week....but it doesn't stop there!!
That Wednesday evening-18 Super Team members from Notre Dame Highschool participated in a leadership retreat along with St. Dominic's from Rocky. The Sylvan Lake parish-Our Lady of Assumption, welcomed us with open arms. From Wednesday to Sunday to retreat away from reality, away from noise, away from distraction and away from the influences of the world.
James 2:19-20
You believe that there is one God. You do well. But the demons also believe, and they tremble greatly. So then, are you willing to understand, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?
The retreat started with a talk from Carl Fakely on his conversion to becoming a christian catholic, and then as a follow up-a student shared her story of last year's retreat and how it dramatically changed her life. She shared that she realized that Jesus died for "her", and that we can't take that for granted. She had everyone crying. It was a beautiful start.
As the retreat went on with games and sessions-including a session on Gossip and judging others, and that judging someone also means you judge Christ-because all of us were created by God, and are made in his image and likeness.
I cannot describe to you the transformations that took place this past weekend. Friday night was a beautiful Taize prayer and praise night-praying together our thanks to God, as well as our prayer intentions. Saturday was a day of sillence-for the most part! Trying to get 40 teenagers to be quiet was super hard. Although, the afternoon was spent watching the Passion and then having silent prayer, a silent dinner, and then reconciliation talk, examination of Conscience, Adoration and confession. It was a beautiful night.
The students shared today as we finished up our retreat what experiences they enjoyed and could take home. Confession! That was huge! For some-they hadn't been to confession for a long time, and just felt so good and so ready to take on the world. They signed a covenant to truely follow through on their faith journey in the school, community and parishes.
I believe that it is these kinds of experiences that truely change the lives of our young people. I belive that they need to be unplugged from the world, undistracted from the world, to hear the voice of God within them. I believe that as youth ministry in the catholic school system grows, this is essential to allowing our students to have that catholic voice-that is heard, to have their actions seen by their peers, to have the support from one another to keep going when it's tough.
These students had to miss 2 days of school for this retreat-and although that was a hard thing to do-I believe we needed that time. A weekend would not have been enough. You know, it's funny how students can miss school for football, for dance, for a field trip, for a drama presentation, but when it comes to a retreat that fundamentally is crucial for the student's soul it's not understood? We can get scholarships for school that will get us into college or university, but what about the tools we need to actually go to heaven when we die? I'm not saying that we should all just be on retreat all the time, cause just like Jesus, we can't stay on the mountain top praying, we have to go out into the world to spread the gospel-but we need to take this time to help our young people find Christ, and bring him back to our Catholic Schools. Why wouldn't we? We're called a Catholic School for a reason.
We must not just believe-we must act on our faith-and these students I pray, after this weekend, will do just that!! Please my brothers and sisters in christ, Pray for our students in the school to continue to grow and share the light of Christ!!
FATHER TONY!! The triumphant return of Father Tony to Red Deer Catholic Schools was a huge success!! Everyone welcomed him with open arms to talk about seeing Jesus in everyone-even the person you would least expect to walk through the gates of heaven one day. He also reminded us to Remember where you came from and Don't be Stupid.
My husband and I had to go to Calgary monday morning to pick him up at his hotel. I was super nervous. (I had seen Father Tony in the L.A. Catholic Congress, and he was pretty outspoken and awesome, and FAMOUS!!!!) So, needless to say, I was excited but nervous for him to be driven in my little cavilier when this man owns a Jaguar.
We got to his hotel, and to our surprise, he was pretty friendly and easy to talk to. We brought him to Camille Catholic Middle School to speak first to all the grade 9's in the divison. He had them laughing and thinking, especially when Father Tony said, there are 2 places you can go when you die-Heaven or Hell, and if you don't want to be a saint you go to hell. Haha!
John-Paul-the St. Dominic's Youth Minister and I along with the faith coordinator from the school board took Father Tony out for lunch. To my surprise, he wanted "real food", not vietnamese, not chinese. This man wanted a burger! He loves mcdonalds!!
So during lunch we chatted with him about the importance of youth ministry in the school system, and he was completely encouraging John-Paul and I with our jobs. That youth ministry is what a catholic school is all about. That's what makes it unique from a public school. He even said and I quote-"You know, if you are in a catholic school, you teach religion first-you are a minister of faith to the students first-then a teacher second. If you don't like that, then there are plenty of public schools that will take you in no problem."
Words of wisdom from Father Tony!
Anyhow, Father Tony-went to Rocky Mountain House Tuesday, and returned to Red Deer Tuesday night for a beautiful mass at St. Mary's. He then came to Notre Dame Wednesday to speak to the students and my Super Team led the school in a song, and had the opportunity to eat lunch with Father Tony and visit him. What an amazing week....but it doesn't stop there!!
That Wednesday evening-18 Super Team members from Notre Dame Highschool participated in a leadership retreat along with St. Dominic's from Rocky. The Sylvan Lake parish-Our Lady of Assumption, welcomed us with open arms. From Wednesday to Sunday to retreat away from reality, away from noise, away from distraction and away from the influences of the world.
James 2:19-20
You believe that there is one God. You do well. But the demons also believe, and they tremble greatly. So then, are you willing to understand, O foolish man, that faith without works is dead?
The retreat started with a talk from Carl Fakely on his conversion to becoming a christian catholic, and then as a follow up-a student shared her story of last year's retreat and how it dramatically changed her life. She shared that she realized that Jesus died for "her", and that we can't take that for granted. She had everyone crying. It was a beautiful start.
As the retreat went on with games and sessions-including a session on Gossip and judging others, and that judging someone also means you judge Christ-because all of us were created by God, and are made in his image and likeness.
I cannot describe to you the transformations that took place this past weekend. Friday night was a beautiful Taize prayer and praise night-praying together our thanks to God, as well as our prayer intentions. Saturday was a day of sillence-for the most part! Trying to get 40 teenagers to be quiet was super hard. Although, the afternoon was spent watching the Passion and then having silent prayer, a silent dinner, and then reconciliation talk, examination of Conscience, Adoration and confession. It was a beautiful night.
The students shared today as we finished up our retreat what experiences they enjoyed and could take home. Confession! That was huge! For some-they hadn't been to confession for a long time, and just felt so good and so ready to take on the world. They signed a covenant to truely follow through on their faith journey in the school, community and parishes.
I believe that it is these kinds of experiences that truely change the lives of our young people. I belive that they need to be unplugged from the world, undistracted from the world, to hear the voice of God within them. I believe that as youth ministry in the catholic school system grows, this is essential to allowing our students to have that catholic voice-that is heard, to have their actions seen by their peers, to have the support from one another to keep going when it's tough.
These students had to miss 2 days of school for this retreat-and although that was a hard thing to do-I believe we needed that time. A weekend would not have been enough. You know, it's funny how students can miss school for football, for dance, for a field trip, for a drama presentation, but when it comes to a retreat that fundamentally is crucial for the student's soul it's not understood? We can get scholarships for school that will get us into college or university, but what about the tools we need to actually go to heaven when we die? I'm not saying that we should all just be on retreat all the time, cause just like Jesus, we can't stay on the mountain top praying, we have to go out into the world to spread the gospel-but we need to take this time to help our young people find Christ, and bring him back to our Catholic Schools. Why wouldn't we? We're called a Catholic School for a reason.
We must not just believe-we must act on our faith-and these students I pray, after this weekend, will do just that!! Please my brothers and sisters in christ, Pray for our students in the school to continue to grow and share the light of Christ!!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Come to Me, all you who are weary
What an absolutely amazing year in ministry!! My fellow youth minister John Paul in the school division and I visited a good friend down in Lethbridge who is a chaplain down in a catholic high school there. What a great day of affirmation on our ministry, and some new insight and inspiration from this man who has worked with young people for quite some time, and obviously called to do this by God. What a gift he was to us today!
As the school year comes to an end, I look forward to my Jesus time-to fuel my energy with prayer and reflection, and with that, spend time with my main vocation-my husband!! Poor guy doesn't always see me. I thank God everyday for him, who is right on baord with me in my ministry because afterall, we met as team members doing youth ministry programs at Our Lady of Victory Camp!
I am so excited for what is to come next year! I ask all of you who are reading this to conitnue to pray for the youth, and that my program will continue to grow and strengthen in Christ Jesus. But!! We must never forget our teachers and staff as well in the catholic schools. Please pray for them too!
So with the summer here, does that mean I'm done ministering? Abosolutely not! haha! I will be attending the Family Life Conference with Our Lady of Victory Camp Team, my husband and a few young adults from Red DEer to lead music in the 12-14 tent, and then we head out to Our Lady of Vicotry Camp on the sunday! I can't wait to see the transformations in the students that will be attending camp this summer. It's beautiful to see the teens change from sunday to friday!
So-I bid you all farewell until I"m back from camp!! Have a blessed rest of your June!!
As the school year comes to an end, I look forward to my Jesus time-to fuel my energy with prayer and reflection, and with that, spend time with my main vocation-my husband!! Poor guy doesn't always see me. I thank God everyday for him, who is right on baord with me in my ministry because afterall, we met as team members doing youth ministry programs at Our Lady of Victory Camp!
I am so excited for what is to come next year! I ask all of you who are reading this to conitnue to pray for the youth, and that my program will continue to grow and strengthen in Christ Jesus. But!! We must never forget our teachers and staff as well in the catholic schools. Please pray for them too!
So with the summer here, does that mean I'm done ministering? Abosolutely not! haha! I will be attending the Family Life Conference with Our Lady of Victory Camp Team, my husband and a few young adults from Red DEer to lead music in the 12-14 tent, and then we head out to Our Lady of Vicotry Camp on the sunday! I can't wait to see the transformations in the students that will be attending camp this summer. It's beautiful to see the teens change from sunday to friday!
So-I bid you all farewell until I"m back from camp!! Have a blessed rest of your June!!
Monday, June 7, 2010
Wow!! I'm so sorry everyone for not writing for awhile. It's definately been an adventure the last few weeks!
So, tonight was the last adoration before summer at my home parish in Innisfail at Our Lady of Peace. It was so nice to take time out to just spend time with Jesus, and talk to him. I couldn't thank God enough for all the youth of the schools and the parishes. They are so amazing and can offer us so much. They're just waiting for someone to ask them.
I also couldn't help but think how I can improve things for next year in my ministry. You know, like, am I doing too much? am I doing the wrong things?, should I being doing this, should I be doing that? Man! I'm a control freak! I sat in front of the blessed sacrament and I thought, "Jesus, help me not to the things I want to do, but things YOU want me to do." Sometimes I feel like I need to conquer the world. It really is very hard for me to say no, or to take on too much.
Anyways, this last weekend was beautiful. The gifts of the youth were alive and well!! The Localpalooza unplugged show to fundraise for students to go to Our Lady of Victory Camp was a huge success! Many students from Notre Dame performed. I'm so incredibly proud! Once that was finished, the youth team, along with Rocky's youth team, and the Team from Our Lady of Victory Camp dressed up in formal attire, and went to Mass at Sacred Heart, and then enjoyed a Dance in the hall. It was an awesome way to end off the year! Their true beauty came out that night. They all looked smashingly beautiful as young men and women of God.
Remember that these students are not the future of the church, but that they ARE the church, and they are ready and willing to participate more than we think. They just need to know that we care for them, and love them. I was blown away by a girl that is wanting to take the youth ministry course with me this summer. These students have changed my life!
Even though they have their drama, their excuses to try and skip class, their negative moments, and bad mood swings, they all have something very important and significant in common.
THEY ALL HAVE JESUS IN THEM!!
And once we try to look for Jesus in them, we see a side of them that is goes beyond the norm of a regular teenager.
I will truely miss the Grade 12's that will be leaving at the end of this month. And I pray that they will be successful in all that they do. Perhaps they will join the young adult ministry that is forming? haha! One can only hope, but either way, these are the faces that will lead their peers to Jesus!!
So, tonight was the last adoration before summer at my home parish in Innisfail at Our Lady of Peace. It was so nice to take time out to just spend time with Jesus, and talk to him. I couldn't thank God enough for all the youth of the schools and the parishes. They are so amazing and can offer us so much. They're just waiting for someone to ask them.
I also couldn't help but think how I can improve things for next year in my ministry. You know, like, am I doing too much? am I doing the wrong things?, should I being doing this, should I be doing that? Man! I'm a control freak! I sat in front of the blessed sacrament and I thought, "Jesus, help me not to the things I want to do, but things YOU want me to do." Sometimes I feel like I need to conquer the world. It really is very hard for me to say no, or to take on too much.
Anyways, this last weekend was beautiful. The gifts of the youth were alive and well!! The Localpalooza unplugged show to fundraise for students to go to Our Lady of Victory Camp was a huge success! Many students from Notre Dame performed. I'm so incredibly proud! Once that was finished, the youth team, along with Rocky's youth team, and the Team from Our Lady of Victory Camp dressed up in formal attire, and went to Mass at Sacred Heart, and then enjoyed a Dance in the hall. It was an awesome way to end off the year! Their true beauty came out that night. They all looked smashingly beautiful as young men and women of God.
Remember that these students are not the future of the church, but that they ARE the church, and they are ready and willing to participate more than we think. They just need to know that we care for them, and love them. I was blown away by a girl that is wanting to take the youth ministry course with me this summer. These students have changed my life!
Even though they have their drama, their excuses to try and skip class, their negative moments, and bad mood swings, they all have something very important and significant in common.
THEY ALL HAVE JESUS IN THEM!!
And once we try to look for Jesus in them, we see a side of them that is goes beyond the norm of a regular teenager.
I will truely miss the Grade 12's that will be leaving at the end of this month. And I pray that they will be successful in all that they do. Perhaps they will join the young adult ministry that is forming? haha! One can only hope, but either way, these are the faces that will lead their peers to Jesus!!
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Under the weather, and it looks like we just finished finals in january outside!!
Hello Everyone! The weekend was definately a busy one. Was out at my summer camp for a youth rally, and it was perfect weather for it. It was a dinosaur theme so everything was dino games, talks, etc. We celebrated Mass and adoration saturday night, and then had a fun dance to end off the evening. What a blast. There was definately some emotions during adoration.
Today it was is as if winter never ended. Very windy, snowy and cold!! Speaking of colds...I think I'm coming down with one. With such a hectic week and weekend, I am not surprised. After the Rally at camp, one of the students came in and asked if she could get info on doing her confirmation. Praise God!! Look at all these young people standing up for their faith!! Woot!!
Today, we celebrated the month of May in honor of Mary at school. The message was for us to say Yes to letting Jesus into our hearts, just as Mary said yes to be the Mother of God. The Go Team performed a drime exactly about that. Choosing to follow Jesus, rather than a life of despair and sin. They did such an amazing job!! You guys Rock!!
Well, this will have to be short tonight, as I am going to rest. Feeling yucky!! Goodnight Everyone! God Bless you!!
Today it was is as if winter never ended. Very windy, snowy and cold!! Speaking of colds...I think I'm coming down with one. With such a hectic week and weekend, I am not surprised. After the Rally at camp, one of the students came in and asked if she could get info on doing her confirmation. Praise God!! Look at all these young people standing up for their faith!! Woot!!
Today, we celebrated the month of May in honor of Mary at school. The message was for us to say Yes to letting Jesus into our hearts, just as Mary said yes to be the Mother of God. The Go Team performed a drime exactly about that. Choosing to follow Jesus, rather than a life of despair and sin. They did such an amazing job!! You guys Rock!!
Well, this will have to be short tonight, as I am going to rest. Feeling yucky!! Goodnight Everyone! God Bless you!!
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
Lions, Drime Team, and singing oh my!!
Okay, so I"m in the midst of Music Festival week, so I'm worrying and stressing about musical theatre props, rehearsals, and nerves of the students and parents, on top of alot of projects and work at the school.
I was blown away by my student Kristen today who sang On My Own from Les' Mis, as she showed emotion and action, I had never seen before. It truely made me emotional. I believed her story of loving a man so much. It's too bad we don't always tend to love Jesus with that much conviction. Man oh man our culture is so busy. I was blown away when I went with St. Dom's to mexico. The people who had nothing, who only had a little shack for a house, loved Jesus so much and were so greatful for what they had. I was amazed at their joy and happiness. How sad it is that we, who have pretty good lives, always want more stuff, when they have nothing, and really don't care to want more either.
So going back to my awesome Drime Team. I went to the rehearsal for Drime at lunch today near the end of their practice, (Drime is an acting and music skit program. Pretty cool!! ) I was amazed! Kassidy had everyone organized, got peoples contact info, talked about rehearsal schedules and really took charge. I just went on facebook tonight, and was invited to a group called Notre Dame Go-TEam!!! What??? Am I "Coordinating?" You mean,...I don't have to organize it? No!! My amazing students are!! That truely made my day.
Leap Team came for a visit today too. They work for St. Mary's, and are very holy young people. I'm super excited for all the work that they are doing. As well, Christie and Mike who talk on Chastity from Our Lady of Victory Camp were giving talks today, as well, as my wonderful Innisfail Grade 9's from St. Marg's were visiting. It was a super awesome afternoon of epicness!
Tonight I sang Be Prepared from the Lion King with my student James. James of course was Scar, and I was Shenzi, the Hyiena. Needless to say, I looked pretty awesome with my teased hair and unibrow!! One of my students Myranda and a friend of hers performed All I Ask of You from Phantom of the opera. They were so engaged, and convicted in their characters. Then she also sang a song with my other student Sam-I Just Can't WAit to be King from the Lion King-yes,..I like the Lion King....so..if you had to choose a character that would best describe you from these numbers..who would you be:
Scar-Convinces others what he wants, but for selfish reasons rather than for the better good
Shenzi-a follower, just doing what she is told, or easily influenced
Simba-Wild, young, Does what he wants-he makes the rules, or tries to
Zazu-The bird that watches over Simba-Stingy, and strict, stuck in his ways, and gets mad or frustrated easily
Christine-from Phantom-Wanting to find what is right, gentle, and searching
Raoul-from Phantom-Following his heart, seeking and asking questions, trying to be better
Goodnight Everyone!! God Bless!
I was blown away by my student Kristen today who sang On My Own from Les' Mis, as she showed emotion and action, I had never seen before. It truely made me emotional. I believed her story of loving a man so much. It's too bad we don't always tend to love Jesus with that much conviction. Man oh man our culture is so busy. I was blown away when I went with St. Dom's to mexico. The people who had nothing, who only had a little shack for a house, loved Jesus so much and were so greatful for what they had. I was amazed at their joy and happiness. How sad it is that we, who have pretty good lives, always want more stuff, when they have nothing, and really don't care to want more either.
So going back to my awesome Drime Team. I went to the rehearsal for Drime at lunch today near the end of their practice, (Drime is an acting and music skit program. Pretty cool!! ) I was amazed! Kassidy had everyone organized, got peoples contact info, talked about rehearsal schedules and really took charge. I just went on facebook tonight, and was invited to a group called Notre Dame Go-TEam!!! What??? Am I "Coordinating?" You mean,...I don't have to organize it? No!! My amazing students are!! That truely made my day.
Leap Team came for a visit today too. They work for St. Mary's, and are very holy young people. I'm super excited for all the work that they are doing. As well, Christie and Mike who talk on Chastity from Our Lady of Victory Camp were giving talks today, as well, as my wonderful Innisfail Grade 9's from St. Marg's were visiting. It was a super awesome afternoon of epicness!
Tonight I sang Be Prepared from the Lion King with my student James. James of course was Scar, and I was Shenzi, the Hyiena. Needless to say, I looked pretty awesome with my teased hair and unibrow!! One of my students Myranda and a friend of hers performed All I Ask of You from Phantom of the opera. They were so engaged, and convicted in their characters. Then she also sang a song with my other student Sam-I Just Can't WAit to be King from the Lion King-yes,..I like the Lion King....so..if you had to choose a character that would best describe you from these numbers..who would you be:
Scar-Convinces others what he wants, but for selfish reasons rather than for the better good
Shenzi-a follower, just doing what she is told, or easily influenced
Simba-Wild, young, Does what he wants-he makes the rules, or tries to
Zazu-The bird that watches over Simba-Stingy, and strict, stuck in his ways, and gets mad or frustrated easily
Christine-from Phantom-Wanting to find what is right, gentle, and searching
Raoul-from Phantom-Following his heart, seeking and asking questions, trying to be better
Goodnight Everyone!! God Bless!
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Wow!! My First Blog!
Hello Everyone! Not sure who will read this, but I was told a while back to start a blog or a diary about my experiences at Notre Dame High School in Red Deer Alberta as the new Youth Ministry Coordinator.
So-here's my plan-each day..maybe every other day, I will have put up a story of a student or an experience I had that was significant, maybe funny, maybe sad, but super duper epic.
This position that has been created at the school is completely new, and I know there are a tonne of teachers that probably see me and wonder..why is she here? She sits and talks to kids all day. What is her purpose? Well, I am here to tell you my purpose, and with the God's help, he is making a difference in the lives of many young people! I am truely blessed to have met such wonderful students, and staff, and I want to be able to share this with all of you!! May God Bless you!, and I hope and pray that these messages will inspire you!!
So-here's my plan-each day..maybe every other day, I will have put up a story of a student or an experience I had that was significant, maybe funny, maybe sad, but super duper epic.
This position that has been created at the school is completely new, and I know there are a tonne of teachers that probably see me and wonder..why is she here? She sits and talks to kids all day. What is her purpose? Well, I am here to tell you my purpose, and with the God's help, he is making a difference in the lives of many young people! I am truely blessed to have met such wonderful students, and staff, and I want to be able to share this with all of you!! May God Bless you!, and I hope and pray that these messages will inspire you!!
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