Campaign Helps Teens Engage, Explore, Worship

Preparing teens for a world that challenges their faith in God in an environment where they feel welcomed, valued and loved is essential to our parish. The Living Our Mission: Shaping Our Future Capital Campaign and the proposed Redeemer Activity Center (RAC) give life to that vision so our teens can engage, explore and worship, said Pat Kelly, longtime Encounter Core Team member and parishioner.  

“Our parish is blessed with amazing growth in the number of youth who come to our programs,” Kelly said. “On Wednesdays, some 300 middle school teens are at Rise. On Sundays, we usually have more than 500 high school students attend Encounter. It is a sight to be seen!”

The RAC will provide space for teens to interact – from dodgeball to basketball and beyond in a new gymnasium. A new youth space will provide flexibility for large and small group meetings and an auditorium will offer 500-plus seats for large-scale presentations and entertainment.

“The most powerful thing parents can do for teens is raise them up in prayer,” he said. “Also, parents can get involved as a chaperon, hall monitor or by joining Core Team. Our students want parents involved in their lives.”

Kelly urges families to consider a financial gift to the campaign to expand programs and minister to teens.

“My wife Marie and I have made a pledge toward the campaign and still volunteer even though our children are long past their teen years,” he said. “Every size gift will help. Let us support a strong Youth Ministry program that gives our teens and families the grace and support they need to grow in their faith and face today’s world.” †