Faith Formation & Parish Life: Youth Ministry

In the Office of Faith Formation & Parish Life, Catholic Youth Ministry empowers young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in the world today, draws young people to responsibly participate in the life, mission and work of the Church, and fosters the total personal and spiritual growth of each person by listening to their needs, sharing the good news of the gospel and sending them out as disciples.

It is our firm belief that in order to foster a culture of encounter within each parish for young people, we have to help ministry leaders become missionary leaders and live out the missio ad gentes.

The master plan for evangelization is not through a textbook or information transfer but through an authentic encounter with the living God. Our goal in the Archdiocese of Hartford, led by the Holy Spirit, is to accompany young people, primarily by providing formation for those who minister to teens, to a place where their encounter with the Risen Jesus can be transformational in spirit and in mission – to become missionary disciples.

In Latin the word “heart” is cor. We believe that at the core of every youth ministry program is a dedicated youth minister. Someone who said “yes” to the call to serve the church in a way that is unique and unrepeatable. Our youth ministers work tirelessly to provide moments of encounter for young people, accompany them on their spiritual journey and help them recognize their full potential. To do this, it is essential that our leaders are ministered to as well. From professional development, spiritually depending retreats and simple check-in’s about the daily grind of ministry, Youth in Hart is designed to support our ministry leaders, body mind and soul. We encourage you to join us at any one of our events this year!