St. Agnes Lifeteen History

St. Agnes Catholic Church

Life Teen Parish Youth Ministry

(Written by Father Mark for Sunday, October 1st)          Some may not be aware that the teenagers of our parish have the opportunity to part of a group called Life Teen.        This concept of youth ministry in a parish was introduced by Father Tom Newton in 1999.  A year later Matt Moleski joined Father Newton and made the program a vibrant part of Saint Agnes Parish.        It is an international program that started in the 80’s by a priest who wanted an exciting Confirmation program.  Today there is a network of over 1,000 parishes around the world that tap into the resources offered by the Life Teen organization.        Their brochure reads, “As a ministry, Life Teen exists to help reach teens and evangelize a generation in desperate need of Jesus.”        On the parish level, this program centers around the Eucharist.  This was the start of naming the Sunday evening Eucharist in our parish “The Life Teen Mass.”  The youth of the parish are invited to share with other teens in prayer and ministry.  There is an opportunity to read the Scriptures, act as ushers and fulfill the duties that help to make the Mass a spiritual experience for young and old alike.        The music group that formed a few years back that plays at the Sunday evening Eucharist is called Messenger.   They play music that is more appealing to the young mind (and to some older adults who shared with me their pleasure at hearing this music which is a draw for them).  The group is reorganizing and is in need of a few more instrumentalists.        Stop by after Mass and speak to them if you have the talent and willingness to share it.        Life Teen meets twice a month after Mass for catechetical input (information about our faith), as well as getting together for various activities of fellowship.  Using skits and story telling we get to share our own journey of life, supporting and encouraging one another.        As always, the adult leadership is very important for this type of group.  Matt Moleski has done a fine job for the past 6 years.  The parish thanks him and his team for their dedication and expertise in dealing with our teens.        Matt decided last spring to move on to other activities and has left this ministry.  Matt was instrumental in helping to nurture and present his successors.  Two young and energetic parishioners have stepped up to the plate for action.  Vincent (Vinnie) & Allison Mancuso are now leading this teen ministry effort.  As always they are looking for a couple of adults to assist them.        It is a big project and needs the energy of a few adult leaders.  With input from the international office of Life Teen, leaders will have plenty of material to share with our youth.  Please call Vinnie & Allison at the number posted on the front of the bulletin to give of your time for our youth.        And let us pray and support this youth ministry program.  “This generation is in desperate need of Jesus.”  Who will help them to come to know the Lord?  Who will share with them the joy of faith and the peace that comes from the love of our God?

Peace,

Father Mark

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