Neu Waves Youth Ministry
"Our Father will not be outdone in generosity and he continues to scatter seeds. He scatters the seeds of his presence in our world, for “love consists in this, not that we have loved God but that he loved us” first (1 Jn 4:10). That love gives us the profound certainty that we are sought by God; he waits for us. It is this confidence which makes disciples encourage, support and nurture the good things happening all around them. God wants all his children to take part in the feast of the Gospel. Jesus says, “Do not hold back anything that is good, instead help it to grow!” (Pope Francis Homily Philadelphia, on Sunday, 27 September 2015)."
Religious Education Grades 9-12: Neu Waves Youth Ministry
Religious Education is only part of Christian Formation, especially for teens. We understand that youth have different needs and like to choose how to be involved. We know that youth have hectic schedules and that young people benefit by having the opportunity to relate to a variety of adults.
The mission of St John Neumann Catholic Youth Ministry is to inspire our youth to deepen their relationship with Jesus Christ and the Church through Evangelization, Hospitality, Giving and Leadership. The High School Religious Education programs is an integral component of Neu Waves Youth Ministry.
This year we have moved to using Life Teen as our main catechetical component.
Grades 9-12 will meet on Sunday evenings.
All parents are asked to volunteer in some way. If you have questions regarding volunteering, then use the contact information found here.
While Sunday evening will be the norm, the Youth Ministry Team often make plans for special social and outreach activities, so dates, times, and places may change.
We primarily update through email, so make sure your contact information is up to date.
Additionally, all parents-volunteers who work directly with children will need to be VIRTUS trained and complete a background check through the parish.
Confirmation
This program requires completing the Sacrament registration form in addition to the Youth Religious Education registration form. Check the Sacraments page for additional details and forms.
If you would like to support this ministry or have questions, please use the contact information button below.
What is Neu Waves?
Our NeuWaves program is a comprehensive, “one-stop-shopping” destination that uses a balance of four key elements:
WORD: systematic catechesis (Follow Youth Faith Formation links to the right.)
WORSHIP: Prayer, praise and worship
SERVICE: direct service along with awareness of larger global issues in social justice
COMMUNITY: retreats, social activities such as movie nights, Diocesan Youth Conferences etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the goal of Neu Waves?
The goal of NeuWaves is to help young people in Grades 8 - 12:
Become empowered to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today
Participate responsibly in the life, mission and work of the Catholic faith community at St. John Neumann Parish.
Grow personally and spiritually and become faith filled youth.
Why this Location and Time ?
Due to a number of different factors, this meeting time was discerned as best in light of the many commitments of our youth and families outside of parish life during the week.
If you would like a different meeting time, we are happy to discuss your involvement with the program.
Are there other trips and/or activities?
The Youth Ministry Team often make plans for many special social and outreach activities, so dates, times, and places may change.
We will send email updates for changes or adjustments in the calendar.
Are there other Diocesan opportunities?
While youth opportunities at SJN are expanding, we also want to encourage and facilitate youth participation in diocesan events.
For diocesan event complete information and registration, please follow the link to the diocesan site.
Why Christian/Faith Formation instead of Religious Education?
Religious Education is only part of Christian Formation, especially for teens. We understand that youth have different needs and like to choose how to be involved. We know that youth have hectic schedules and that young people benefit by having the opportunity to relate to a variety of adults.
We will meet the needs of your youth through formation in eight key areas: Catechesis, Prayer and Worship, Evangelization, Leadership Development, Justice, Service, Pastoral Care and Advocacy. We will work with them in Mission and Outreach activities and join with them in just plain Fun. The content is limited only by the imagination of our youth and the willingness of parents to help. We seek your input and participation.