It’s hard to believe that a full ministry year has come and gone! I am so pleased with the growth I have seen in youth ministry over the past nine months. Our Holy Family Edge Youth Group (for Grades 6-8) wrapped up on May 28th, and I am both relieved and sad about this. Relieved because we made it - there were no big catastrophes throughout the year, and by the last half of the year I did not feel stressed about those events anymore. The team and I hit a groove and it was wonderful to see all the youth and leaders become a family of sorts. And that’s where the sadness comes in. This was my first time organizing a youth group, and I am just so grateful for relationships that emerged and the strong foundation that was built.

Throughout the course of the year, the 6 young adult leaders and myself played games, shared insights and questions about our faith, and prayed with the youth that came through the Cathedral doors to our youth group. There was an average of 20 youth at each night, although the number fluctuated between 15 and 30. One of the highlights was definitely the Edge Retreat held at Holy Family in conjunction with St. Anne’s Youth Ministry. We had 60 students attend and it was a huge success.

I have high hopes for next year as I continue leading the youth ministry here at the Cathedral. As of now the plan is to continue with our middle school Edge program, and I am excited to dig more into high school ministry. I am also so appreciative for all the support from Holy Family parishioners, especially the Knights of Columbus for their financial contributions. I am also in awe of the team members who so faithfully served this year - I know that we’re making a difference! I feel very blessed to work in such a loving and generous environment.

Please be assured of my prayers for the whole Holy Family community, for a safe and restful summer. Onward and upward my friends - come Holy Spirit!

 
March EDGE Youth Retreat - what a joy!