Question 1

Why include Mass in our program?

Answer

Mass is the "source and summit" of our Catholic faith. That means that when we go to Mass, hear the Word proclaimed, and receive the Eucharist, we are the closest to God and receive what we need to live our best life. Really, anything we try to do here is impossible without Mass. Whether you've attended Mass before, or haven't been, we invite you to join us each weekend for Mass. If it helps, our 5 PM Sunday Mass is geared toward young people.

Question 2

Can parents get involved?

Answer

Yes! We believe that parents are key in Youth Ministry and want to support them in their role. Although Faith Formation in the past three decades has primarily occurred in the classroom, we believe that the more effective "classroom" is the home. When parents partner with the parish, we can be more impactful when it comes to raising our teens Catholic. In fact, two of the growing trends nationally for faith formation is both digital and family catechesis. Parents are also invited and encouraged to volunteer with our programs as small group leaders. All small group leaders receive support and coaching from our Faith Formation team, so there's no need to worry about being the most knowledgable teacher. For more information about volunteering as an EDGE small group leader, email cassandrab@stteresaavila.org Lastly, Parents are invited to explore PARENT LIFE, a website by Life Teen to help parents learn more about teens and receive resources to empower them as parents: https://ltparentlife.com/

Question 3

So I'm somewhere in Grades 6 - 8. What can I do?

Answer

Alot! For starters, we want to make sure you can connect and get to know as many others your age as possible. First, come to EDGE. EDGE is a Catholic middle school large group experience created by Life Teen. It provides a safe and fun place for youth to find solid Catholic community, to get answers to their questions about faith, and, most importantly, to experience Jesus in a profound and personal way. EDGE Nights happen monthly during the school year to bring middle schoolers together to learn all about our faith through games, activities, discussions, service, and prayer.

Question 4

Why Service?

Answer

Service is an integral part of Christian discipleship. Those in EDGE are asked to complete at least 10 hours of service during the year. This can be done on their own, or they can sign up for opportunities that arise here during the year. We will share upcoming service opportunities with families throughout the year. Service hours are tracked on our service log, which can be turned in at the end of the academic year by June 30th.

Question 5

Who can I contact if I have more questions?

Answer

Ghostbusters! Just kidding. But seriously, we'd be happy to help and answer any questions you may have. You can contact: Jennifer Slotwinski Faith Formation Administrative Assistant jennifers@stteresaavila.org

Question 6

How are youth put into small groups?

Answer

When you participate in EDGE nights, you get to engage with other young people in mixed small group discussions. For games and activities, the entire group of 6th-8th graders come together.

Question 7

What is EDGE exactly?

Answer

EDGE is a Catholic middle school youth ministry program. It provides a safe fun place for youth to find solid Catholic community, to get answers to their questions about faith, and, most importantly, to experience Jesus in a profound and personal way. Edge resources speak to the physical, psychological, cognitive, relational, and spiritual maturation of middle school youth. Edge resources make it easier for youth ministers to plan out their semesters of Edge Night, retreats, and to train a team of adults, the Core Team, to assist them in the ministry. The resources present Catholic teaching in a way that young people can understand.

Middle School Ministry

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