YOUTH MINISTRY Specialization

Transcription

1 YOUTH MINISTRY Specialization Complement Handbook to: The Continuing Catechetical Formation Handbook Growing in the grace and knowledge of God Continuing Catechetical Formation Guide for the Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader (CYML), Youth Ministry Leader (CATYML) and Youth Ministry Catechist/Volunteer (CATYMV) Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas

2 Youth Ministry Complement Handbook Table of Contents Youth Ministry Foundations... 5 The Youth Ministry Professional Standards and Formation Tracking and Documenting Formation Plans The Youth Ministry Leader Development and Formation The Youth Ministry Volunteer Development and Formation Youth Ministry Methodology and Skills Offering Courses and Instructor Information Course Listings

3 Diocese of Dallas Youth & Young Adult Ministries 3725 Blackburn P.O. Box Dallas, TX January

4 Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries Mission Statement: To develop and strengthen a comprehensive youth ministry for junior and senior high school age youth and to challenge parishes and college campuses to welcome, support and include young adults in the life of the parish or campus. The two documents put forth by the US Bishops that drive the office: Renewing the Vision: A Frame Work for Catholic Youth Ministry and Sons and Daughters of the Light: A Pastoral Plan for Ministry with Young Adults. Vision Statement: The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for the Diocese of Dallas participates in the mission of the Catholic Church by advocating for and supporting Catholic youth ministry on the national, regional, diocesan, and local level. Please refer to the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries Handbook for more information on our office, available resources and how we support parish youth ministry. Roman Catholic Diocese of Dallas 3

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6 YOUTH MINISTRY Foundations 5

7 Foundations of Youth Ministry This is what is needed: a Church for young people, which will know how to speak to their heart and enkindle, comfort, and inspire enthusiasm in it with the joy of the Gospel and the strength of the Eucharist; a Church which will know how to invite and welcome the person who seeks a purpose for which to commit his whole existence; a Church which is not afraid to require much, after having given much; which does not fear asking from young people the effort of a noble and authentic adventure, such as that of the following of the Gospel. ~ Pope John Paul II, 1995 World Day of Prayer for Vocations) The Bishops, in Renewing the Vision, remind us to see within youth the incredible potential and capacities they have now and to respond to their present and real needs. Youth ministry does not exist because youth are particularly troubled or needy. Youth are growing in ways intended by our loving God. They are encountering the joys and the challenges of life as adolescents in our time. They have wonderful gifts to offer in the midst of their growing pains. We minister to youth because we are church and we follow the pattern of Jesus: we respond to needs and empower youth to use and share their gifts. DEFINITION OF CATHOLIC YOUTH MINISTRY The definition of youth ministry offered by the Bishops is formed by our love for and our commitment to young people: youth have needs we care for and gifts to share. 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 (RTV 1). COMPREHENSIVE YOUTH MINISTRY During the adolescent period of transition from childhood to adulthood, adolescents benefit from support systems that encourage and challenge them. Youth Ministry seeks to draw young people into the supportive experience of Catholic Community. Renewing the Vision identifies eight components of youth ministry: Advocacy, Catechesis, Community Life, Evangelization, Justice and Service, Leadership Development, Pastoral Care, and Prayer and Worship. Comprehensive youth ministry provides an approach that integrates the eight components into a framework of support, while encouraging creativity in developing programs, activities, and strategies. The comprehensive approach is not a single program or recipe for ministry. Rather, it provides a way for integrating ministry with adolescents and their families into the total life and mission of the Church, recognizing that the whole community is responsible for ministry with adolescents and their families. The comprehensive approach uses all of our resources as a faith community people, ministries, programs, resources in a common effort to promote the three goals of the Church s ministry with adolescents. The goals for ministry with adolescents help us keep our vision focused on the objectives. The themes provide a continuous thread that ensures that ministry with adolescents utilizes all available resources and is all-inclusive. The components highlight specific areas of ministry for a comprehensive approach. By offering this framework we seek to provide direction to the Church s ministry and to affirm and encourage local creativity. (RTV 19-20) 6

8 Eight Components of Comprehensive Youth Ministry The components describe specific areas of the mission of the Church that work together to provide ministry with adolescents. These components provide a framework for the Catholic community to respond to the needs of young people and to involve young people in sharing their unique gifts with the larger community. (RTV 26) The components support and enhance each other. Our ministry becomes more effective when we work to balance our ministry response across the eight ministry area. This balance is not necessarily achieved by developing separate ministry programs in each component; sometimes a single program, such as a retreat, incorporates several ministry components. We look for balance over a season or year of ministry to determine response in these components. (Descriptions of the eight components can be found in pages of Renewing the Vision.) Throughout this handbook, we will focus on the component of Catechesis. This component should be woven into all aspects of youth ministry efforts. With all plans and programs developed over the course of the year, it is imperative for CYML s to intentionally document all catechetical efforts as part of their yearly curriculum. Catechesis The ministry of catechesis helps adolescents develop a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and the Christian community; increase their knowledge of the core content of the Catholic faith. The ministry of catechesis also helps young people enrich and expand their understanding of the Scriptures and the sacred Tradition and their application to life today, and live more faithfully as disciples of Jesus Christ in their daily lives, especially through a life of prayer, justice and loving service. Genuine faith is a total response of the whole person mind, heart, and will. The ministry of catechesis fosters growth in the Catholic faith in all three dimensions trusting (heart), believing (mind), and doing (will). The goal of catechesis is to put people in touch, in communion, indeed in intimacy with Jesus Christ. General Directory of Catechesis, 80. In other words, the goal is fostering a relationship with Jesus. Adolescents learn how to form and maintain healthy relationships from the example of the caring adults in their lives. 7

9 A Vision for Adolescent Catechesis: Transforming Adolescent Catechesis Young people grow in their Catholic faith by falling in love with the person and message of Jesus Christ, and mature in faith when they let that love form and transform them within the Church, a community of disciples. Adolescent catechesis is one stage of a lifelong process of embracing the Catholic way of life that forms young disciples by empowering them to know and follow Christ in their daily lives, thus becoming leaven for the Kingdom of God in the world. The following are foundational and interdependently connected elements in this process: 1. Empowered Parents and Faith-Filled Families 2. Vibrant, Youth-Friendly Parishes 3. Fruitful Partnerships 4. Comprehensive Ministry to Youth with Intentional and Systematic Faith Formation 5. Inclusion, Trust and Acceptance This vision of adolescent catechesis calls for nothing less than re-imagining current faith formation and pastoral ministry efforts with young people and their families. It requires leaders at all levels to engage in honest assessments of current efforts and systems in order to create new relationships and patterns of ministry which work together to form disciples of Jesus Christ. All of this invites us to invest in our own formation as a Lay Ecclesial Minister in the church today.challenges us to look at how we are empowering and forming our volunteer youth ministry leaders who journey with the young church and leads us to the Diocese of Dallas Continuing Catechetical Formation Plan!!! We are in youth ministry because of our belief in the importance of investing in the young church of today. We must now ask ourselves, how are we investing in our own personal formation and the formation of the adults who journey with these young people? 8

10 Youth Ministry Formation Levels & Definitions CYML s - please take time to discern and discuss with individuals involved in youth ministry in your parish communities which categories they will fall into at this time. This discernment will note which pathway they need to follow. Please see the section in this handbook that clarifies this pathway in more detail. Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader (CYML) The Lay Ecclesial Youth Ministry Leader is the person who organizes, animates, and coordinates the people, programming, and resources within the parish, school, and/or community-based settings to provide a comprehensive ministry effort with adolescents (6 th / 7 th 12 th grade depending upon your parish structure). The CYML must be qualified and well trained, as well as have an excellent reputation. The CYML is primarily responsible for facilitating planning, administering programs, developing a leadership system for adults and youth leaders (recruiting, training, and support), and serving as an advocate and link for young people to the faith community and wider community. (Renewing the Vision) The CYML Level is achieved by the completion and receipt of the Master Catechist Certificate. In addition, one must complete and receive the National Certificate in Youth Ministry through the Center for Ministry Development. Please see the Youth Ministry Professional Standards and Formation Section for more information. Youth Ministry Leader (CATYML) Those in leadership positions in parishes in the area of youth ministry (can include paid full time, part-time or volunteer) that are not seeking to fulfill the Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader (CYML) Level as noted below, but identified by their parish CYML to complete a higher level of formation than CATYMV. Individuals in this category must complete the CCF Certificate of 150 Hours/Advanced Level which falls in line with the Master Catechist Level (what we previously referred to as the Basic Catechist Certificate). Please see the Youth Ministry Leader Development and Formation Section for more information. Youth Ministry Catechist/Volunteer (CATYMV) This level applies to those interested in completing the 90 hours CCF Certificate. This is for all youth ministry volunteers serving in a catechetical position in your parish. Please see the Youth Ministry Volunteer Development and Formation Section for more information. 9

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12 THE YOUTH MINISTRY PROFESSIONAL Standards & Formation 11

13 NATIONAL CERTIFICATION STANDARDS FOR LAY ECCLESIAL MINISTERS The revised Code of Canon Law states that lay persons who devote themselves to special service in the Church are obliged to acquire appropriate formation required to fulfill their function properly and to carry out this function conscientiously, eagerly, and diligently. (Canon 231) In April, 2003 the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM), the National Association for Lay Ministry (NALM), and the National Conference for Catechetical Leadership (NCCL) jointly approved certification standards and core and specialized competencies for the ministerial roles represented by the organizations Youth Ministry Leaders, catechetical leaders, pastoral associates, and parish life coordinators. The National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers defines broad areas of ministerial competence as the norms by which an individual s ministerial competence may be assessed; a vision statement for each standard; core competencies that delineates specific knowledge, skills, abilities, attitudes, values, and/or traits required to fulfill certification standards; and specialized competencies expressed distinctly within the context of youth ministry. Reference: Co-Workers in the Vineyard of the Lord - A Resource for Guiding the Development of Lay Ecclesial Ministry, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, 2005 The NFCYM COMPETENCY BASED STANDARDS FOR THE COORDINATOR OF YOUTH MINISTRY STATES: Competency-Based Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers A Summary of the National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers and the Specialized Competencies for Youth Ministry Leaders Core Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers These standards are for all lay ecclesial ministers, including coordinators of youth ministry/youth ministry leaders. 1. Personal and Spiritual Maturity: A lay ecclesial minister demonstrates personal and spiritual maturity in ministry with the people of God. 2. Lay Ecclesial Ministry Identity: A lay ecclesial minister identifies the call to formal and public ministry as a vocation rooted in baptism. 3. Roman Catholic Theology: A lay ecclesial minister integrates knowledge of Roman Catholic faith within ministry. 4. Pastoral Praxis: A lay ecclesial minister engages in pastoral activity that promotes evangelization, faith formation, community, and pastoral care with sensitivity to diverse situations. 5. Professional Practice: A lay ecclesial minister provides effective leadership, administration, and service, in the spirit of collaboration. 12

14 Specialized Competencies for the Youth Ministry Leader There are specialized competencies for the youth ministry leader which fall under Core Certification Standard Four: Pastoral Praxis. The youth ministry leader demonstrates competency in the following areas. The youth ministry leader shall: 4.7 YML Demonstrate an understanding of the history, vision, goals, themes, and components of Catholic youth ministry as outlined in the U.S. bishops pastoral plan and related church documents. 4.8 YML Utilize theories, models, processes and methods of Catholic youth ministry. 4.9 YML Demonstrate an understanding of adolescent developmental needs within the contexts of youth and popular cultures YML Model for and collaborate with the faith community in implementing the components of Catholic youth ministry by: Utilizing the aims, principles, processes, and methods of adolescent catechesis in implementing adolescent faith formation Facilitating the development of community among youth, families, church and society Inviting young people into intimate relationship with Jesus Christ and empowering them to live and witness as disciples in today s world Engaging youth in the social mission of the church in accord with Catholic social teaching Enabling healing, growth and healthy development of youth in their relationships Enabling young people to celebrate and deepen their relationship with the Triune God through individual and communal prayer and participation in the liturgical life of the church Engaging the church and broader community in voicing and addressing the rights and needs of youth Affirming and calling forth the gifts of youth and adult leaders and providing opportunities for their ongoing spiritual and leadership development. NOTE: Since all coordinators of youth ministry are catechetical leaders, they need to also pay attention to the specialized competencies for parish catechetical leaders. Please contact our office to obtain a copy of the National Certification Standards Assessment Tool for your use. 13

15 Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader (CYML) The Lay Ecclesial Youth Ministry Leader is the person who organizes, animates, and coordinates the people, programming, and resources within the parish, school, and/or community-based settings to provide a comprehensive ministry effort with adolescents (6 th / 7 th 12 th grade depending upon your parish structure). The CYML must be qualified and well trained, as well as have an excellent reputation. The CYML is primarily responsible for facilitating planning, administering programs, developing a leadership system for adults and youth leaders (recruiting, training, and support), and serving as an advocate and link for young people to the faith community and wider community. (Renewing the Vision) These individuals (who may work full or part-time as a salaried employee or as a volunteer) may conduct ministry under a variety of titles including but not limited to: 1. Director/Coordinator of Youth Ministry 2. Assistant Director/Coordinator of Youth Ministry 3. Director/Coordinator of High School Faith Formation 4. Director/Coordinator of Junior High/Middle School Faith Formation 5. Coordinator of Confirmation Preparation 6. Parish Youth Minister Some campus ministers, pastoral associates, parish life coordinators, and catechetical leaders may also share responsibility for youth ministry and as such may be considered lay ecclesial ministers serving as youth ministry leaders. (From National Certification Standards for Lay Ecclesial Ministers) The CYML (Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader) should be: 1. An active Catholic in good standing with the Church. 2. An active and visible member of a parish community. 3. A person who is knowledgeable in regards to Catholic teaching and morality. 4. A person of deep faith and prayer. 5. A person of good character, reputation and record. 6. A person called to ministry with an understanding of vocation. 7. A person with working knowledge of the Vision of Comprehensive Youth Ministry as outlined in the document Renewing the Vision, a Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry. 8. A person with a commitment to continuing professional and ministerial formation. 9. A person who is skilled in human resource management and is willing to enable youth and adults to manage resources in order to achieve an effective integration of all dimensions of youth ministry. 10. A person who understands and is willing to apply the principles and foundations of youth ministry. 11. A person able to provide formation adapted to meet specific individual needs so that the spiritual growth and community involvement of the young person is both encouraged and enriched according to his/her abilities. (Reference: Pastoral Statement of U.S. Bishops on People with Disabilities (1978) and NCCB Guidelines for the Celebration of the Sacraments with Persons with Disabilities (1995). 12. A person who possesses effective leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills. 13. A person who is creative, self-motivated, and full of the joy of the Lord. 14

16 14. A person who is willing to deal with the demanding expectations of youth ministry (long weekends, late nights, etc.) 15. A person who holds or is working toward diocesan credentialing as the Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader/CYML. 16. A person who is willing to study, understand and apply Catholic theology as the core of his/her ministry. 17. In compliance with the Safe Environment Program of the Diocese of Dallas, which means the completion of screening procedures and training required. (Adapted from the National Directory for Catechesis) Position Specification Requirements: 1. BA in Youth Ministry, Theology, Religious Studies, Pastoral Studies, related field or approved equivalency. 2. Completion of National Certificate in Youth Ministry (completed prior to employment is preferred/must be in process once hired if not completed) 3. A commitment to continuing professional education. 4. A theological perspective consistent with Renewing the Vision (NCCB, 1997), General Directory of Catechesis (Congregation for Clergy, 1997), The Challenge of Adolescent Catechesis (NFCYM, 1986). 5. Must have demonstrated good character, reputation and background record (No convictions or felonies, no history of violent or deviate behavior, etc.) Preventative Strategies - Self-Care The minister should recognize and maintain the boundaries of his/her professional commitment. The minister should not try to assist anyone whose needs extend beyond his/her level of competence. Responsibilities Each parish and each Coordinator of Youth Ministry are unique. It is not possible to develop a job description that applies to all situations. Each parish should assess the needs of their own parish when deciding the job description for a youth minister and or coordinator. Evaluation A performance evaluation should be done annually by your supervisor. 15

17 PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT & FORMATION Lay persons who devote themselves permanently or temporarily to some special service of the church are obliged to acquire appropriate formation required to fulfill their function properly and to carry out this function conscientiously, eagerly, and diligently. (Canon 231) The vocation of the Lay Ecclesial Youth Ministry Leader is the response to God s great gift of being able to minister with youth. With this gift comes great responsibility including professional development and continuing formation. To that end, formation and training are top priorities of our office. To provide the most effective ministry with youth, the youth minster needs to be competent in many areas including theology and methodology, as well as the mindsets of safe environment and comprehensive youth ministry. We have outlined the pathways to guide your professional development and formation in the following pages of this section. Whether full-time or part-time, paid or volunteer, the formation of individuals who work with youth, in particular early and older adolescents, is a critical component in the development of successful parish programs and safe places for young people to gather and feel welcomed. As a youth ministry leader, you bring your own individual charisms (gifts and talents) to your parish community. The formation of the youth ministry leader begins at Baptism. In discovering your Vocational Call you must realize that a commitment to further formation and education is as important as the essential qualities you bring to the ministry. Effective Youth Ministry: Develops a leadership system that invites, trains, supports, and nourishes adult and adolescent leaders and provides for the coordination of leaders throughout a comprehensive youth ministry. It also develops and nurtures adult leaders of lively faith and maturity with solid theological understandings, relational and ministry skills, and organizational ability appropriate to their particular role in ministry with adolescents. (Renewing the Vision) Since these needed skills, knowledge and abilities can be learned, those preparing to be ministers to young people are to experience formation and training in order to increase their competence in their role. It is helpful to distinguish three stages of youth ministry formation: Orientation is provided for all those in ministry to youth, new and experienced, volunteer and professional, to prepare them to begin a particular season or program in ministry. They learn how the parish, school or institution functions (goals, mission statement, procedures), build community, pray together and are encouraged to seek further skills development. Initial Formation begins with an assessment of the minister s needs and provides the basics of the ministry. This ensures that a person has the minimum knowledge and skills necessary to function competently as a minister to young people. 16

18 Ongoing Formation occurs consistently and systematically throughout the year, providing regular opportunities for personal and spiritual growth, as well as the further development of skills and knowledge in youth ministry. Those in ministry to young people do all they can to become more effective and collaborative ministers through their participation in youth ministry formation opportunities throughout the entire period of time that they carry out their ministry. A comprehensive youth ministry program, whether it is based in a single parish or represents the cooperative efforts of several parishes, includes the dimension of structured or formal catechesis. Coordinators of youth ministry, therefore, should have theological formation as well as competence and experience in catechesis. (NDC pg. 226) As such, in accordance with the directives of Bishop Farrell and the Diocesan Catechetical Plan, the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries continues to collaborate with the Office of Catechetical Services in the training and formation for all those involved in catechesis with children and youth. As you journey through these formation stages working towards the levels identified below, we ask that you take note of your own personal completion and receipt of the Continuing Catechetical Formation Certificate. We also ask that you look to support and empower your youth ministry volunteers in completion of the defined levels appropriate to their level of ministry involvement. As identified in the CCFC Handbook: This is the first phase of a multi-faceted plan in which all ministries served by offices in the Pastoral Center will be asking that those in leadership and those volunteer ministers who evangelize and catechize in the name of the Bishop in parishes, to be formed in the areas of Christian Identity/Ministry, Sacred Scripture, Theology, Personal and Spiritual Maturity, and Catechetical Methodology/Skills. The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries will be the first Ministry Office to join with the Department of Catechetical Services in requiring their professional and volunteer ministers to receive a Certificate in Catechesis. (Continuing Catechetical Formation Certificate - CCFC) CYML Formation Levels: - Master Catechist: Your initial catechetical formation should consist of the completion of the 150 Hours/Advanced Level: Master Catechist - Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader Level (CYML Level): Your ongoing formation is achieved by the completion and receipt of the Master Catechist Certificate. In addition, completion and receipt of the National Certificate in Youth Ministry through the Center for Ministry Development - Professional Level/Continuing Formation: Once you complete the CYML level it is recommended that you complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education each year and look to continuing higher level formal education. According to the CCF Handbook, These hours may include Youth Ministry Workshops, Monthly CYM s, Retreats and Seminars; Local, Regional, or National Conferences; and Coursework in Theology or Methodology. To record and receive credit with the Department of Catechetical Services, see the Equivalency Application Form. 17

19 Pathways to CYML Guidelines for the Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader to Complete the Continuing Catechetical Formation Certificate The Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries has outlined the suggested plan for Youth Ministry Leaders to complete the Continuing Catechetical Formation Certificate process as outlined by the Office of Catechetical Services. We have outlined 3 pathway options for CYML s: Standard Path: National Certificate in Youth Ministry University Degree Path Catechetical Path Details can be found below for each of the paths. It is important to note that these paths only outline the requirements for a Continuing Catechetical Formation Certificate. Requirements for the Coordinator Level Certificate will include a National Certificate in Youth Ministry, so the Standard Path is the recommended path. We do know that sometimes the pathways we take toward a goal are not as clear and straight as those defined in this outline. Please know that your specific situation may require adjusting the pathway to fit your particular formation plan. We are here to work with you and help ensure that YOUR pathway is the best one for you. Feel free to contact us if we can help you to determine your own path. 18

20 Standard Path: National Certificate in Youth Ministry The standard path to receive your Continuing Catechetical Formation Certificate begins with the courses for the National Certificate in Youth Ministry. These courses are scheduled over a 2 year period and offer 120 hours towards the 150 needed for your certificate. The 30 remaining required hours are split between 5 hours of Theology and 25 hours of Sacred Scripture. See breakout of hours assigned to each course listed below. Remaining Hours Option 1: Youth Ministers can take courses offered as outlined in the CCFC Handbook (Catechetical Plan) to complete the remaining 30 hours. The hours should include the following concentrations: Scripture Theology Option 2 (University Degree Option): Any college-level Introduction to Scripture course can be applied to the 25 hours of Sacred Scripture. Additionally, any college-level theology course may be applied to the 5 hours of Theology. Intro to Old Testament Intro to New Testament Elective TOTAL

21 National Certificate in Youth Ministry Studies The Certificate in Youth Ministry Studies is a ministry training program for those in ministry with youth in both parish and school settings. It equips leaders with the practical tools and techniques needed for creative and comprehensive ministry with youth. Courses may be taken for Certificate credit or applied to graduate studies with the University Of Dallas School Of Ministry. National Certificate in Youth Ministry Studies Catechetical Path Your role in youth ministry might concentrate more on one particular area of ministry and thus lead you more into another area of concentration (Catechetical Leadership Formation Program, for example) rather than the National Certificate in Youth Ministry. These Youth Ministry Leaders should follow the requirements as set forth by the Department of Catechetical Services including specific courses assigned in each category. This path should be supplemented with Youth Ministry Methodology & Skills course offerings. For more information on these, please contact the Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries. University Degree Path Youth Ministry Leaders may choose to apply a university degree in theology or pastoral ministry toward your Catechetical Certificate. Please see the Continuing Catechetical Formation Handbook for more information on this pathway. 20

22 THE YOUTH MINISTRY PROFESSIONAL Tracking & Documenting 21

23 Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader (CYML): Documentation of Formation: As noted in the Parish Catechetical Leader (PCL) Section of the CCF Handbook, PCL s are asked to document their training and provide a formation plan. We too are asking that all Youth Ministry Leaders complete something similar to what is asked for in this section. All Professional Youth Ministry Leaders must complete a Youth Ministry Formation Plan that reflects and documents their formation efforts. This form will be kept on file in the Office of Youth Ministry and will be completed yearly. All youth ministry leaders must complete this form and you should provide our office with a copy. We have enclosed our documentation in this complement, located in the next section. Please use the appropriate attached worksheet to document the level that you have completed. This form will serve as a way to document what you have already finished, identify what you may still be missing and will notify our office of your progress. For your professional formation, we highly encourage you to keep a hard copy file folder documenting all courses you have taken and continuing formation efforts attended. Anything offered through of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries through our monthly CYM s or the National Certificate (that can be counted) will be submitted to the Office of Catechetical Services on your behalf and you do not need to submit the information using an Equivalency Application Form. If you are seeking to document additional formation efforts outside of those outlined in the CCFC Handbook, please contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries for preapproval. If you are new to our Diocese: You can begin documentation of your formation by reviewing the Pathways to CYML information provided for you in this handbook. Additionally you will find information on the National Certificate in Youth Ministry and course/date offerings for the current year which is named in the Pathways information. You will need to complete a Coordinator of Youth Ministry Application upon hire. 22

24 THE YOUTH MINISTRY PROFESSIONAL Formation Plans 23

25 CYML Formation Plans: Please locate the sheet that notes the level you have most recently completed. You do not need to fill out each sheet. If you have already completed the Master Catechist Level, please complete the Coordinator Level. If you have already completed the Coordinator Level, please move on to document your continuing formation hours completed during the course of the year at the Professional Level. Take the time to record the status of your hours and to reflect upon the course of your future formation plans. This must be filled out and turned in by all CYML s yearly by the designated date. Youth Ministry Formation Levels: - Master Catechist: Completion of the 150 Hours/Advanced Level: Master Catechist - Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader Level (CYML Level): is achieved by the completion and receipt of the Master Catechist Certificate. In addition, completion and receipt of the National Certificate in Youth Ministry through the Center for Ministry Development - Professional Level/Continuing Formation: Once you complete the CYML level it is recommended that you complete a minimum of 20 hours of continuing education each year and look to continuing higher level formal education. According to the CCF Handbook, These hours may include Youth Ministry Workshops, Monthly CYM s, Retreats and Seminars; Local, Regional, or National Conferences; and Coursework in Theology or Methodology. To record and receive credit with the Department of Catechetical Services, see the Equivalency Application Form. 24

26 Master Catechist Level: Completion of the 150 Hours/Advanced Level: Master Catechist Name: Title: Parish: Please initial all boxes that apply to you and fill in the date where noted. I have not completed the Master Catechist Level, but have recorded the status of my hours in the form below I have enrolled in/am currently taking courses in the National Certificate in Youth Ministry (For National Certificate hour breakdown of each course and the category of hours they fulfill, please see the chart earlier in this handbook) / / My estimated completion date of the Master Catechist Certificate Level Ministry Skills Year Courses Hours Required Hours Completed Hours Needed Plan/date for completion Catholic Ministerial Identity (CMI) 20 Sacred Scripture (SS) 40 Theology (TH) 40 Personal and Spiritual Maturity (PSM) Methodology and Skills (M&S) Youth Ministry focused Please use the Continuing Education sheet to document and track any additional hours you may acquire during the course of the year. According to the CCF Handbook, These hours may include Youth Ministry Workshops, Monthly CYM s, Retreats and Seminars; Local, Regional, or National Conferences; and Coursework in Theology or Methodology. To record and receive credit with the Department of Catechetical Services, see the Equivalency Application Form. To track your hours for your records and to submit to our office, please use the form below. Only hours turned in directly to the Department of Catechetical Services will be recorded in the database. 25

27 Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader (CYML Level): Level is achieved by the completion and receipt of the Master Catechist Certificate. In addition, completion and receipt of the National Certificate in Youth Ministry through the Center for Ministry Development Name: Title: Parish: Please initial all boxes that apply to you and fill in the date where noted. I have not completed the Coordinator Youth Ministry Level, but have completed the Master Catechist Level and receipt of a Continuing Catechetical Formation Certificate. I am currently enrolled in the National Youth Ministry Certificate Program. I have not completed the Coordinator Youth Ministry Level, but have completed the Master Catechist Level and receipt of a Continuing Catechetical Formation Certificate. I have completed all 8 courses in the National Youth Ministry Certificate Program, but need to complete my papers and submit them for completion of this certificate. / / My estimated completion date of the CYML Level Please use the Continuing Education sheet to document and track any additional hours you may acquire during the course of the year. According to the CCF Handbook, These hours may include Youth Ministry Workshops, Monthly CYM s, Retreats and Seminars; Local, Regional, or National Conferences; and Coursework in Theology or Methodology. To record and receive credit with the Department of Catechetical Services, see the Equivalency Application Form. To track your hours for your records and to submit to our office, please use the form below. Only hours turned in directly to the Department of Catechetical Services will be recorded in the database. 26

28 Professional Level/Continuing Formation: Once you complete the first two levels, it is highly recommended that you build upon your formation each year through participation in continuing education opportunities and consider higher level formal education where applicable. According to the CCF Handbook around continuing education, These hours may include Youth Ministry Workshops, Monthly CYM s, Retreats and Seminars; Local, Regional, or National Conferences; and Coursework in Theology or Methodology. To record and receive credit with the Department of Catechetical Services, see the Equivalency Application Form. For professional ministry development and growth, we ask that you complete a minimum of 20 hours a year. Please use the following sheet to track your hours. Be sure to keep a copy for your personal records. Name: Title: Parish: I have completed the previous levels of Master Catechist and CYML. I have documented the following Continuing Education Hours below. Year Continuing Education Venue Course /Conference/Class / Online Hours Date Completed 27

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30 THE YOUTH MINISTRY LEADER Development & Formation 29

31 Youth Ministry Leader (CATYML) Those in leadership positions in parishes in the area of youth ministry (can include paid full time, part-time or volunteer) that are not seeking to fulfill the Coordinator Youth Ministry Leader (CYML) Level, but identified by their parish CYML to complete a higher level of formation than CATYMV should complete the CATYML Level. Individuals in this category must complete the CCF Certificate of 150 Hours/Advanced Level which falls in line with the Master Catechist Level. If you are a paid full or part-time member of a parish youth ministry staff, please complete the formation plan in this section and return to the OY&YAM. If you are a volunteer in your parish in this category, please keep a copy for your records. We also ask that you consult with your CYML as to site based parish record keeping. CATYML Formation Plans: Please fill out the Master Catechist Level sheet on the following page and the continuing formation sheet when applicable. Take the time to record the status of your hours and to reflect upon the course of your future formation plans. This should be completed and submitted yearly. 30

32 Master Catechist Level: Completion of the 150 Hours/Advanced Level: Master Catechist Name: Title: Parish: Please initial all boxes that apply to you and fill in the date where noted. I have not completed the Master Catechist Level, but have recorded the status of my hours in the form below I have enrolled in/am currently taking courses in the National Certificate in Youth Ministry (For National Certificate hour breakdown of each course and the category of hours they fulfill, please see the chart earlier in this handbook) / / My estimated completion date of the Master Catechist Certificate Level Ministry Skills Year Courses Hours Required Hours Completed Hours Needed Plan/date for completion Catholic Ministerial Identity (CMI) 20 Sacred Scripture (SS) 40 Theology (TH) 40 Personal and Spiritual Maturity (PSM) Methodology and Skills (M&S) Youth Ministry focused Please use the Continuing Education sheet to document and track any additional hours you may acquire during the course of the year. According to the CCF Handbook, These hours may include Youth Ministry Workshops, Monthly CYM s, Retreats and Seminars; Local, Regional, or National Conferences; and Coursework in Theology or Methodology. To record and receive credit with the Department of Catechetical Services, see the Equivalency Application Form. To track your hours for your records and to submit to our office, please use the form below. Only hours turned in directly to the Department of Catechetical Services will be recorded in the database. 31

33 Continuing Formation: Once you complete the first two levels, it is highly recommended that you build upon your formation each year through participation in continuing education opportunities and consider higher level formal education where applicable. According to the CCF Handbook around continuing education, These hours may include Youth Ministry Workshops, Monthly CYM s, Retreats and Seminars; Local, Regional, or National Conferences; and Coursework in Theology or Methodology. To record and receive credit with the Department of Catechetical Services, see the Equivalency Application Form. For professional ministry development and growth, we ask that you complete a minimum of 20 hours a year. Please use the following sheet to track your hours. Be sure to keep a copy for your personal records. Name: Title: Parish: I have completed the previous levels of Master Catechist and CYML. I have documented the following Continuing Education Hours below. Year Continuing Education Venue Course /Conference/Class / Online Hours Date Completed 32

34 THE YOUTH MINISTRY VOLUNTEER Development & Formation 33

35 Youth Ministry Volunteers (CATYMV) The Catechetical Services department of the Diocese of Dallas has a standard program for training and certifying volunteers. That program has been outlined in the CCF Handbook. More information can be found on their website or by contacting your Parish Catechetical Leader (PCL). Your volunteers will follow the pathway outlined in the booklet with the exception of the Methodology and Skills hours. The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries offers Methodology and Skills Courses for all youth ministry volunteers. We are providing Core Course complements to meet the objectives outlined by Catechetical Services for Introduction to the Learner and Methods for Grade Levels. In addition, we are offering foundational and specialized courses. These courses are geared more towards those working with the younger and older adolescent and the methodology needed to work with them in a variety of settings. For more information concerning Youth Ministry Methodology & Skills course offerings, please contact the Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries. You can find a listing of the available courses in this packet. Please provide your volunteers with an explanation of the Youth Ministry Methodology and Skills offerings in lieu of the Catechetical Offerings for this section so they can map out their plan accordingly. You can seek more information on providing those courses and where they are being offered, by contacting our office. As you reference the CCF Handbook, you should look to make sure that your Youth Ministry Volunteers get a copy of the Catechist s Guide for their own reference. As noted in the CCF Handbook, the 20 hours of pre-requisite courses are designed for Catechist to complete before they even enter the classroom or as soon as possible after they begin their ministry as catechists. Those with a short term commitment to the vocation of catechist should have as their goal the completion of CCF Certificate (90 Hours). Those who feel called to a longer commitment should be encouraged to complete the entire 150 hours which will be the Advanced Level: Master Catechist. This information applies to your youth ministry volunteers. 34

36 YOUTH MINISTRY METHODOLOGY & SKILLS Offering Courses & Instructor Information 35

37 Youth Ministry Methodology and Skills Instructors and Courses To be a Youth Ministry Methodology & Skills Instructor: You will need to contact the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. We have certain criteria and qualifications in order to teach Methodology and Skills Courses, including. 1. Contacting the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries concerning your interest. 2. Completion of the CYML/Coordinator Level 3. Completion of Instructor Application 4. Full participation in and presence at designated faculty in-services. 5. Observe the course and preview course materials prior to teaching. Please note: All instructors must be pre-approved The OY&YAM has a listing of pre-approved instructors. You will need to seek pre-approval of instructors not listed on the approved list in order to submit trainings for credit prior to offering the class or attending a course outside the diocese when seeking credit. For instructor approval for Youth Ministry Methodology Courses/please call the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. For Scripture, Theology, Catholic Ministerial Identity instructors, please call the Office of Catechetical Services. 36

38 Youth Ministry Methodology & Skills Courses: For more information concerning Youth Ministry Methodology & Skills course offerings, please contact the Office of Youth & Young Adult Ministries for current course listings. In Chapter 4 of the CCF Handbook/Courses and Objectives, they refer to the Methodology and Skills Courses available to take through Catechetical Services. Please note that in this handbook complement, we list the available Youth Ministry Methodology and Skills courses that can be offered. We will provide CYML s the information needed to offer these in your parishes upon request. After courses are scheduled and offered, all documentation and submittal of information currently takes place through your PCL. We highly encourage you to work with your PCL as this process will be site based specific. Pre-approved Courses: If a course is being offered/advertised through the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries as a course for Methodology and Skills credit, then it has been pre-approved. Please contact our office for the steps in offering a course at your parish including items such as: - Advertising Avenues - Course Documentation Materials (Course form, attendance sheet, evaluations, materials, etc.) - Host parish responsibilities - Wrap-up and completion of documentation for credit (always making sure to keep a copy on file for your own records) If your course offering is not pre-approved: If you attend a Youth Ministry Methodology and Skills training not listed in our courses that takes place outside of our diocese, please use the Equivalency Application to seek pre-approval prior to attending the course. We have provided you a listing of pre-approved courses and objectives in this specialization handbook. - For Youth Ministry Methodology course approval, please contact OY&YAM. - For Scripture, Theology, or Catholic Ministerial Identity course approval, please contact the Office of Catechetical Services. - You will need to provide a copy of the content covered/syllabus of training in addition to instructor information. 37

39 If you wish to bring a guest speaker into your parish and are seeking course credit, you will need to contact the OY&YAM for pre-approval of the instructor and content/matching of course objectives. Additional Documentation Notes: Currently the Tasks of Coordinator to Assure Credit identified in Chapter 3/Section 9 of the CCF Handbook, notes that completed course documentation will need to be submitted by your PCL. They will need to turn in a copy of the roster and the evaluations in order for the information to be recorded and sent to Catechetical Services. You will need to work with your PCL to decipher the best method for documentation and preparation of paperwork prior to submittal as each parish is site based specific. You will not turn in evaluations, rosters or fees to the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. Payment and Fees: Are done so at the discretion of the host parish. You will not turn in any fees to the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries. If you a planning on paying your instructor a stipend, you will take care of that in house. 38

40 YOUTH MINISTRY METHODOLOGY & SKILLS Course Listings 39

41 Youth Ministry Methodology & Skills Courses Revised 5/17/10 Youth Ministry: Methodology/Skills 30 hours Core Courses 15 hours Foundational Youth Ministry Topics 6 hours Specialized Youth Ministry Options 9 hours Personal & Spiritual Maturity 20 hours 40

42 Youth Ministry: Methodology/Skills Core Course Content 30 hours 15 hours These courses equip and empower catechists with the knowledge and methods to be effective teachers and facilitators of learning. Getting Started as a Catechist [5 hours] To be incorporated if not included in Echoes of Faith segment What is catechesis faith formation process as lifelong and intergenerational, and particular issues and emphasis during the adolescent years Role of a catechist Ministry mindset: being a facilitator of learning, a mentor and engaging youth in an apprenticeship model Call to ministry assessment of personal attributes and strengths; matching gifts to roles Tips for being prepared as a catechist Tending to the learning setting: room arrangement, atmosphere, personal interaction, etc. Tending to your own spirituality; Continued faith development and your own personal relationship with Jesus Partnering with families: parents as primary catechists Introduction to the Learner [5 hours] Understanding the nature and needs of adolescents (young and/or older) adolescent development and family (asset building) the role of adults in adolescent development (asset building) adolescent spirituality and faith formation adolescents and learning (brain development, learning styles) adolescent life today (media influence, technology, etc.) Methods for Grade Levels [5 hours] Understanding the theory and developing skills for establishing rapport and relationships with adolescents effective communication with adolescents empowering young people into a discipleship mindset through facilitation and modeling managing behavior (individual and group) effective teaching methods: facilitating learning (experiential, interactive, relevant) 41