An incredible group of youth from our diocese are currently serving on the 2008-2009 Youth Action Council - the planning body for diocesan youth events.

Membership is based on clergy, youth mentor, and youth recommendations and limited to no more than 25 members for ongoing terms. Membership is open to any youth in the diocese grades 7 - 12 who are actively involved in their home parish.

Each spring the time comes to say hello to new faces willing to make the commitment to this ministry. The council works very hard and we need their continued guidance to design programs according to the interests and enthusiasm of our diocesan youth.

To continue successfully, we need youth who participate in activities . This would not be a good choice for individuals who only want to have fun. We end up having fun in the process, but the council's first and foremost goal is to be a compass, providing clear direction for youth ministry in our diocese. Because of the limited time we will have during meetings, it is important they possess traits that enable them to work well with others, and focus on the task at hand.

We need youth who have the time to commit. To participate, you have to physically be present at scheduled meetings. This does not necessarily exclude “busy” youth. As we all know, sometimes the busiest people get a lot done! This does, however, mean youth have to have a reliable means of transportation, i.e. use of a family car, or a parent willing to drive. And, to be fair to everyone, and because there are representatives from each of the four deaneries, there will be an equitable distribution of meeting places across the diocese. It seems only fair to vary meeting locations, giving everyone an opportunity to be “close to home”.

Members are required to attend two planning meetings, and two overnight retreats each year.

If you're interested in serving with a spiritually motivated group of people download the information letter and application.

Youth Action Council Application pdf