The celebration of the Youth Ministry Awards Ceremony for twenty eight participants from parishes
across the diocese is the culmination of two years work. This new initiative began in the Diocese of Kerry with the introduction of the Youth Ministry Studies Programme. This course is accredited by St. Mary’s University College, Queens University, Belfast. The awards Ceremony will be held in KDYS Youth Centre, Fair Hill, Killarney on Thursday 27th February with presentation of certificates by Bishop Ray Browne.
The two year course in Youth Ministry was delivered by the Redemptorist Youth Ministry Team, coordinated by Fr. Noel Kehoe in collaboration with the Diocese of Kerry. The teaching faculty included priests, religious and lay people, all with a wealth of youth ministry experience. The aim of the course was to equip voluntary and professional leaders with the knowledge, skills, practical tools and techniques needed for creative and comprehensive ministry with youth in parish, school, college, diocesan and other settings. The course nurtured the personal and spiritual growth of leaders for ministry in today’s Church.
As parishes reached out to engage with young people, the need for trained adult leaders was identified. This course has developed the confidence and competence of leaders to deliver effective ministry with youth.
Youth Ministry is the response of the Christian community to the needs of young people, and the sharing of the unique gifts of youth with the larger community. Youth Ministry is more than programmes and youth events. At the heart of ministry with young people is the presence of caring, supportive relationships where youth experience the Good News.
Enabling the gifts of young people will make a real difference in Church, society and the world at large. This course, delivered by the Redemptorist Youth Ministry team in collaboration with the Diocese of Kerry will equip leaders to reach out and undertake this key role with young people.
For further Information contact:
Bernie McCaffrey, John Paul II Pastoral Centre, Rock Road, Killarney
berniemccaffrey@dioceseofkerry.ie
Phone: 087 6484367