Renew Your Vision - An Introduction

Welcome to Renew Your Vision, a play on words to the original work Renewing the Vision, which helps leaders to re-imagine their group or ministry, connecting it to the Parish Name & Mission that will draw youth to Christ. My name is Juan Rodriguez, and I'll be leading you through these 4 Weeks of study on youth ministry. 

We use elements of competition shows, such as Top Chef, to push the participants to imagine what they could create for the Glory of God. They would not be competing with one another, rather working as groups in sharing ideas, methods, approaches – in the Catholic Way – Concern for the other, and allowing the Spirit to show them that unity builds the “Civilization of Love”.

The part of imagination comes from the element of role playing games, which we create scenarios, characters, situations, and obstacles, which encourage the participants to work together in achieving their goals. Once the classes are completed, participants take their writings and experiences to make adjustments to their existing group(s), or begin the creation of a vibrant youth group or youth ministry that grows from the Parish Name and Mission.

What will you get from this Course?

- Freedom to explore the possibilities of creating a Youth Ministry from grassroots by using the Parish Name that can draw you to Christ, and serve the people in your Community. 

- There are no certificates - that you would have to get through your Diocese or Archdiocese. 

- There is no cookie cut plan, only a deep dive into Renewing the Vision, to see what we can do to create a vibrant parish youth ministry. 

1st TALK: Her Vision – Your Vision

Youth Ministry done with the Church - It is an introduction to the teachings of "Renewing the Vision", leading future youth & young adult leaders in becoming that Vision of Hope for their Church 

2nd TALK: What the name of a Church can do for you! 

Focuses on foundations that can strengthen the structure of a group or ministry that leads to Comprehensive Ministry. Similar to Religious Life, Picking a Name for Baptism or Confirmation – One can find vocation, meaning, and purpose in their Parish Name. An area where “Renewing the Vision” does not mention, but when including the 'name" it can be the “mortar” in keeping the group united 

3rd TALK: Plan Your Vision – Renew Your Church 

Focuses on the responsibility of the leader who is the guide, and interpreter of the group mission. A leader who is faithful to the name is faithful to the mission, because the mission is united to the pastor and parish. 

4th TALK: Bringing the Vision to Life 

Focuses on the 8 Components offered in “Renewing the Vision”. It encourages leadership to develop a Comprehensive plan – one that would strengthen community, foster vocations, and so much more.

5th GATHERING: Can it work? 

Participants will share their work to the public. 

To begin our class, I want you to look at these 4 Stages of Youth Ministry in a Parish.