Allowing young people to question their religion and beliefs does not mean rejection of those beliefs or a loss of faith in God. Communication is the key to any healthy relationship, and we already know the crucial significance of relationships for the adolescent. Therefore, if a parent wants a child to grow and to find meaning in the Church tradition, the parent should listen to the question and to what often seems like antagonism towards matters of religion and faith. The Second Vatican Council suggested that we cannot talk about Church without talking about family life, and that we cannot talk about family life without talking about the Church. Christians are called by Jesus to live their faith first of all by being faithful to their most significant human relationships, for intimacy with God and intimacy with other people are inseparable.
Parishes have a serious obligation to meet the spiritual needs of today s young people.
Churches that keep teenagers involved help them grow spiritually. Pastors must understand Christian education for teenagers and make a commitment to sponsoring active youth programs. It is not enough to teach the importance of the Bible and basic theological concepts. Youth must be challenged when they are questioning so much. Youth won t mature spiritually when they are spoon-fed information.