The Gathering for Youth Ministry Leaders (Youth Ministers,

Directors of Religious Education, Core Team Members, Volunteers) offers:
• Spiritual growth and retreat
• Modern and creative ministry resources
• A strong community of like professionals that provides collaboration and new resources
• Dynamic presentations to expand your knowledge of the Church and youth ministry

The Gathering for Youth Ministry Leaders meets the second Thursday of every month, from September to May. A typical Gathering includes hospitality at 9:15am, a training session, Mass, and a complimentary lunch beginning at 12:15pm.

Contact the Local Outreach Department with any questions, suggestions or concerns.

Upcoming Gathering Dates

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And You Shall Receive Power

Thursday, February 12, 2015

It is impossible to fully do the work of Jesus without the power of Jesus. Far too many people ministering in the Church today are doing so under their own talent, drive, and inspiration rather than that of the Holy Spirit.

This is leading to frustration and disillusionment for many otherwise gifted ministers. Experiencing a personal anointing of the Holy Spirit is imperative for both a fruitful and grace-filled personal spiritual life and a powerfully dynamic and anointed ministry.

Learn and experience how a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit can change your personal spiritual life as well as your ministry. We will discuss topics such as the fruits of the Spirit, the role of the gifts in ministry, yielding to the Spirit, and the Spirit’s call to give witness to the Father.

Father Dave Pivonka, TOR, will lead our day. He is widely known for his dynamic preaching and teaching at Steubenville Youth Conferences and for his extensive work with Catholic youth ministry throughout the United States. He currently serves as the director of post-novitiate formation for the Franciscan province in Washington, D.C.

Organization Tools to Save You Stress, Time, Energy, and Money

Thursday, March 12, 2015

Have you or your ministry team ever felt ill-prepared for a ministry event and just wanted to scream, “We need to get organized around here!”? Do you frequently begin activities feeling only half-prepared?

So much to do in so little time, so many responsibilities, and so little support!

It’s an all too common reality for those of us who serve in what is the most challenging and demanding ministry in the Church: ministry to young people.

Getting organized is essential and forms the basis for effective ministry. With effective organization, your ministry events, programs, and activities can be fruitful and enjoyable – especially for you and your team!

Leading this session is Joe Roueche, Outreach Coordinator with NET Ministries. Drawing upon his 20+ years experience on the parish, archdiocesan, and national levels, Joe will share three practical and effective organizational tools which have served him well in the programs and teams he has successfully created over the years.

How to Gain, Train, and Retain Volunteers

Thursday, April 9, 2015

One of the biggest challenges facing any leader in youth ministry or faith formation is making sure you have a well-equipped ministry team of adults and young adults to assist you in the great mission!

Catechists, small group leaders, and other volunteers are the lifeblood of your programs. Without them, you will find yourself on the fast track to burnout. With a well-trained and cohesive team, watch what can happen.

Compounding this challenge is the reality of the fast-paced, busy lives of those we need and their many reasons for why they can’t assist.

So what does a ministry leader do? What can be done to secure the team that is so needed? Are there any secrets of those who are successful in building their team? What strategies and tips can be implemented for the building of your team this summer?

Mark your calendar and join this great session led by Annie Grandell. Originally from West Michigan, Annie came to the great state of Minnesota in 2001 to serve with NET Ministries. She is the Director of Youth Ministry for St. Mary and St. Michael of Stillwater and St. Charles of Bayport. Outside of her ministry in the St. Croix Valley, Annie speaks at a variety of youth functions around the region and serves on the Archdiocesan Youth Ministry Advisory Board.