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“First Things” is a seven-session online formation program – will be held using Zoom platform.
 
“First Things” uses a cohort model to not only provide participants with the foundational information for leading a youth ministry program, but with a community of support as well. The training format is as follows:

• 3 Months of Virtual Formation: Initial orientation and six 90-minute online sessions (ideally we would meet every 2-3 weeks)

• Participant Preparation: Approximately 3 hours of required reading, viewing content, and reflection activities prior to each session

• Group Discussion: Share insights on material and practical application to local situations

• Practical Applications: Apply learnings through tangible steps and strategies that assist in building a comprehensive youth ministry model

• Diving Deeper: Follow-up materials for further development available for each session

 Here is a summary of the sessions:

• Orientation – gather with cohort and coach; learn about each other, parish settings, and current struggles

• Session 1: First Things about Comprehensive Youth Ministry –review primary YM documents, goals, and components; discuss accompaniment model, active listening, and relational ministry

• Session 2: First Things in Understanding Young People, Culture, and Your Local Context – overview of Gen Z and how to engage them and your local community’s diverse cultures, parents, and church leaders

• Session 3: First Things in Building a Leadership Team and Recruiting Volunteers – recruiting and forming your core team, maintaining diversity, and determining leadership and planning structures

• Session 4: First Things on Accompanying Young People and Their Parents – assessing needs of youth and parents; developing program structures that engage and empower youth to live as disciples within and outside the parish community

• Session 5: First Things in Program Planning and Budgeting – practical program logistics and best practices (formation, retreats, events, program evaluations); creating a budget; checklist for strategic programming

• Session 6: First Things in Resources and Networking – most helpful resources, websites and supportive networks; review of next steps and continued development; and a closing cohort prayer experience

Cost to participate in this training is only $75 per person.
 
Interested? Register here. 

Questions? Email or call 808-203-6763.