The youth group falls apart when they burn out or become too busy. The youth ministry is owned by the broader faith community. Because the youth ministry is owned by the faith community, and leadership is spread out, it doesn t fall apart as easily. Emphasis on the group doing things together. Single structure stifles creativity, individuality.
Variety encourages life and vitality.
Youth group has regular meetings and occasional special events. Youth are involved in liturgical ministries, mentoring, peer ministry, leadership development, service opportunities, involvement in community leadership structures, etc. The end result is a quasi-religious social group for parish youth to participate in. The end result is personal growth and faith development, family and community ties reinforced, leadership development, discipleship, regular and meaningful service within and outside the community. How we answer these questions have huge consequences for how we live out the rest of our Creed.