What has about 30 members, meets monthly, and offers everything you need to be a good Catholic – eating, praying, and playing?

The Youth Ministers’ Network of the Archdiocese of St. Paul/Minneapolis!

This group of youth ministers welcomes volunteer, part-time, and full-time ministers who serve the needs of youth. Their mission statement reads:
Youth Ministers’ Network seeks to acknowledge God’s presence in ourselves and those we serve. We commit ourselves to listen to and voice the needs of youth ministers at the parish, archdiocesan, and national levels. We encourage dialogue and discussion with agencies, parishes, and people involved in ministry with young people.

The YM Network meets on the first Thursday of each month. A meeting starts with the essentials—coffee, bagels, and donuts. After the “social networking time,” the group settles down to business. Reports from various committees are given from representatives for:

• Advocacy
• Archdiocesan Coalition of Ministries
• Professional Development
• Hospitality
• Leadership

as well as the diocesan director sharing updates.

Announcements from the various members, with information about upcoming retreats and special events, are then shared. This time is also used for sharing, asking advice and opinions, and general conversation.

Next on the agenda is the professional development piece. A variety of topics are covered each month, with topics ranging from liabilities to certification requirements. The group prides themselves on being able to offer professional networking and support with the tools for doing what they do!

It goes without saying that all events and meetings have an underlying spiritual component. Each year the group enjoys a retreat together. This retreat allows those who can not get away for monthly meetings to gather and feel refreshed in their ministry work.

All meetings end with a catered lunch. During the interview, I commented that this group certainly had the “eating” part of ministry down! Lunches and professional development speaker costs are covered with the yearly dues of $50 per person.

Member Pat Howard (who graciously did the interview for this article) is proud of the group’s effort and emphasis on professionalism. They are taking their profession seriously and making time to develop their skills and talents as youth ministers. For more information on this group, check out their website at: www.youthmn.com.

*We would like to highlight youth ministry groups from around the country in each issue of this newsletter. Contact Kelly to share what is unique about your group.*