Worried about Lifeteen coming to our Parish

[Onegin]

I see where you’re coming from on this and I agree that there are some really influential Catholic teen programs out there. Great. Wonderful! Just how that exactly translates into needing to do something different (be it in music, style, using teens as EHCMCs or whatever) jives with the idea of the Mass being celebrated in a specific form that is for all people at all times and not just teens or families on Sunday evenings.

I propose that we keep the Mass the way it is and then have the teen-oriented activities afterwards (music, catechism, games, whatever). I’m just not on board with the idea that changing the Mass to fit certain demographics is a very Catholic concept.

It seems that if you and I can agree that the Mass doesn’t need to be changed to appeal to teens then surely we can likewise agree that a positive effect can be achieved with teens through programs that don’t involve changing the Mass?

Oh, and I’m glad to hear they shut down the concelebration-looking altar practice.

 

[Melchior_1]

Did you read the links I provided? I have to ask because you didn’t read the initial one I posted about how Life Teen and Vatican had consistent dialogue about the Mass. You probably didn’t read about how Life Teen is in constant communication with the Bishops in their diocese either.

The Mass isn’t changing per-say. The music is different, yes. Any other “change” is vetted through, you guess it, the local bishop who goes up the chain of command. The structure of the Mass remains the same. Readings, Gospel, Homily,Memorial Acclamation etc etc.

Do you propose we have only one Rite? No more Latin? Only Latin? The Churches that still do the old Rite, do they exclude those who don’t know Latin? We have a French/English Mass in my town, geared towards those who speak both languages, is that permitted? How about other cultures? There’s a random polish Church near my place. Should they be allowed to do that outside of Poland? Should the bank on Chinatown have Chineese characters on their signs?

*Just how that exactly translates into needing to do something different (be it in music, style, using teens as EHCMCs or whatever) jives with the idea of the Mass being celebrated in a specific form that is for all people at all times and not just teens or families on Sunday evenings. *

The links I posted covered some of this. Some Life Teen churches don’t do Mass at Sunday evening, and your question overall question was directly answered in the link that talks about the Youth Mass. Keep in mind, once again, all of this approved and vetted by local bishops.

 

[palmas85]

**Onegin, please follow the link I provided earlier. They consulted Rome and removed the standing in the Sanctuary with the Priest five and a half years ago. **

And yet the standing in the Sanctuary, the communal consecration, 'The Mass Never Ends it must be lived"acclamation, and music that distracts remain in many Lifeteen Masses. Of course Lifeteen is well covered because it sent a letter:thumbsup: out to the group leaders, is that what they are called these days, instructing them not to do them even if, just how did they word it??,

" **these issues will be hard on some parishes and teens"
**
You guys are something else.

Of course since the missive was sent by the incredible visionary Priest Dale Fushek,:bigyikes: maybe the local groups felt secure enough in rejecting it and just doing whatever they please.

Just as they always have.

 

[Melchior_1]

**Onegin, please follow the link I provided earlier. They consulted Rome and removed the standing in the Sanctuary with the Priest five and a half years ago. **

And yet the standing in the Sanctuary, the communal consecration, 'The Mass Never Ends it must be lived"acclamation, and music that distracts remain in many Lifeteen Masses.

“Many”. I can just as easily say I have seen “many” that have followed the directives accordingly.

Of course Lifeteen is well covered because it sent a letter:thumbsup: out to the group leaders, is that what they are called these days,

They are “well covered” because they initiated a dialogue with the Holy See to ensure that the Mass followed the GIRM, done in conjunction with the USCCB. After those discussions, they proceeded to communicate the news to the people that needed to know.

**instructing them not to do them **

even if, just how did they word it??, " **these issues will be hard on some parishes and teens"
**

The behold the power of the Internet, where several lads posted on her blog the full contents of the letter in question.

----- *

A letter has been sent by Msgr. Dale Fushek, founder (I think) and director of Life Teen, regarding a June meeting that Bishop Olmsted of Phoenix had with Cardinal Arinze [head of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments] specifically about the program. As a result of these and other discussions, the letter states:

As the founder of this youth movement, I am writing to confirm our adherence to the new GIRM, and as always, our obedience to our own local Bishops. In this spirit of obedience, we are asking all parishes that implement the LIFE TEEN model to make the following changes:

1. In accordance with the new GIRM, teens are no longer to enter the sanctuary for the Eucharistic prayer. Being in the sanctuary is to be reserved for the priest celebrant, concelebrants, and those performing a specific ministry.
2. The GIRM very specifically offers three options for the end of the Mass. We are to cease using the phrase “The Mass Never Ends, It Must Be Lived” and begin using one of the three prescribed endings found in the Missal.
3. After music practice or welcoming, please make sure there is a period of silence to begin the liturgical celebration.
4. As we have always taught, please make sure the music does not in any way detract from the action at the altar, ambo, or chair.
5. Please make sure that full implementation of the GIRM is done in accordance with your Diocese and accomplished with a spirit of joy.

I am sure these issues will be hard on some parishes and teens. But, let me assure you, our cooperation with Rome and the BCL will only enhance our liturgical celebrations and our mission in the Church. It will be essential that we catechize our teens and their families on what we are doing, and why we are doing it.
*​

That was the letter sent to Life Teen leadership and the different churches that had Life Teen programs. There is nothing there about things being optional, there is nothing there about “if this is too hard you don’t have to do it”. Nothing is optional regarding following the Magisterium of the Church. Any Life Teen program that fails to do that is doing a disservice to all, not being true to the actual program (check out the website), and is no different than other sects/schisms/break out groups who chose to not follow Rome.

Dale Fushek has issues, no one is denying that. To discredit everything he has ever done would the be same as discrediting some of early Church Fathers, key Old testament figures, and not to mention quite a few clergy in the present day. Hasn’t there been a couple of orders of priests who have had issues in the past been in the news lately? Dale had some decent stuff at the start, he sadly went off over the deep end. He was not as anchored into the Sacraments as one would hope, and he obviously hard issues with Rome. He’s not the first, won’t be the last.

The difference between us and Dale? Right now we’re in full communion with Rome, Orthodox, and obedient to the wishes of the Holy See. Dale made his bed, and we’ve washed our hands accordingly. We’re continuing to bring teens closer to Christ through the Eucharist.

EDIT: At this time I realize that I mistoke some of what you said. At first I thought from the way you were typing you were saying that Life Teen told people in the letter that they would not have to follow the edict if it was “too hard”, which I took as bearing false witness as the letter did not say that. After further reading, I was likely mistaken and due to lack of sleep I misread what your wrote. My apologies!

 

[benedictgal]

On a different note, Melchior_, would you be willing, during Lent, to teach the teens some of the Traditional Lenten hymns from the Church’s treasury of Sacred Music? I believe that exposing them to these sacred songs would help deepen their understanding of the Lenten season and perhaps lead to some thought-provoking questions at LifeNight.

A lot of the songs in Spirit and Song (I am assuming that you use this book), really do not speak to the penitential nature of the Lenten season. They also do not focus on the reality that we are sinners. As I have experienced these songs, they tend to be “feel good” pieces, especially “Bread of Life” that takes things to a horizontal level. I think that the issue with this particular genre is that, at times, the music centers more on the horizontal, on the “I/We”, rather than on the verticial, the “He”.

Let me give you an example of an impressive Lenten hymn, Attende Domine, which will be chanted at this year’s Papal Ash Wednesday Mass during the Offertory:

R. Hear, O Lord, and
have mercy upon us,
who have sinned against

Thee. King, high exalted, all
the world’s Redeemer, to
Thee we lift out eyes
with weeping: Christ, we
implore Thee, hear Thy
suppliant’s prayers. R. 2. Right hand of
Godhead, headstone of
the corner, path of
salvation, gate of
heaven, wash away the
stains of our sin. R.

1. We, Thy eternal
   majesty entreating, with
   Thy blessed ears hear
   our sighing:
   graciously grant pardon
   to our sins. R.

1. Humbly confess we,
   who have sinned against
   Thee, with contrite
   hearts we reveal things
   hidden; O Redeemer,
   may Thy pity grant
   forgiveness. R.

1. Led away captive,
   guiltless, unresisting,
   condemned by false
   witnesses unto death for
   sinners, Christ do Thou
   keep us whom Thy
   blood hath ransomed. R.

You can actually find a version of this song here:

hymnprint.net/index.cfm?go=cCatalog.search

It is simple, Gregorian chant and you don’t even need musical instruments for this. Granted, the English translation is different than what I wrote, but, the Church has been singing this venerable hymn for 11 centuries. You can’t go wrong there.

I think if you were to introduce this hymn during Lent, you will get an incredible response and follow that with solid catechesis.

I do not think that LIfeTeen should have to tune out, so to speak, the Church’s venerable hymns. To do so, I think, would cause the teens to think that there is some sort of rupture, when there really is not. It also gives them a chance to take part in something that generations of young people have been doing down through the centuries.

 

[CMatt25]

I’ve enjoyed this discussion but honestly I’m more worried about Latin only coming. As a young child it was Latin only and I prefer having options. My wonder is whether it is only traditional Catholic laypersons who should have the say if LT is acceptable or an entire parish or church leaders.

 

[benedictgal]

I’ve enjoyed this discussion but honestly I’m more worried about Latin only coming. As a young child it was Latin only and I prefer having options. My wonder is whether it is only traditional Catholic laypersons who should have the say if LT is acceptable or an entire parish or church leaders.

Latin is not a bad thing. In fact, the authoritative documents of the Holy See clearly indicate that this should not be abandoned. Even WYD had some of the Mass parts in Latin. Latin is the Church’s official language. In fact, Pope Benedict XVI has consistently made a strong case for the use of Latin in the Mass. By exposing young people to just one thing, contemporary PW music, we’re not doing them any favors.

Furthermore, we need to look at what the authoritative documents of the Holy See have to say in tandem with each other. They do not contradict each other; they complment each other. Even Pope John Paul II, the founder of WYD, was quite clear when he stated that Latin should be preserved.

 

[CMatt25]

Latin is not a bad thing. In fact, the authoritative documents of the Holy See clearly indicate that this should not be abandoned. Even WYD had some of the Mass parts in Latin. Latin is the Church’s official language. In fact, Pope Benedict XVI has consistently made a strong case for the use of Latin in the Mass. By exposing young people to just one thing, contemporary PW music, we’re not doing them any favors.

Furthermore, we need to look at what the authoritative documents of the Holy See have to say in tandem with each other. They do not contradict each other; they complment each other. Even Pope John Paul II, the founder of WYD, was quite clear when he stated that Latin should be preserved.

Latin is fine for those who like it. I just don’t want it as the only option. Latin or even English were not the official language used in the early church communities we read about in early Acts. I like speaking-liturgy. Whatever speaks to you, me, anyone else is fine with me. To each his or her own preference.

 

[stringbeanduck]

OF COURSE! No questions asked I would. Especially considering back then they, you know, used percussion and string instruments extensive. But even in a present day context I still would.

Wow, that’s, wow. I’m sorry, but do you honestly think the last supper was something to get all excited with drums? I mean can anybody here imagine one of the disciples whipin out the bongos while Jesus is proclaiming: “Take and eat; this is my body".

 

[stringbeanduck]

Latin is not a bad thing. In fact, the authoritative documents of the Holy See clearly indicate that this should not be abandoned. Even WYD had some of the Mass parts in Latin. Latin is the Church’s official language. In fact, Pope Benedict XVI has consistently made a strong case for the use of Latin in the Mass. By exposing young people to just one thing, contemporary PW music, we’re not doing them any favors.

Furthermore, we need to look at what the authoritative documents of the Holy See have to say in tandem with each other. They do not contradict each other; they complment each other. Even Pope John Paul II, the founder of WYD, was quite clear when he stated that Latin should be preserved.

And that’s the problem. The more folks do away with Latin the less educated and more fearful younger generations become of Latin. I’m not saying there needs to be TLM only decree by the Pope, but I think using a few phrases here and there would help make it not so foriegn. Teens need to learn be educated on that Latin is not some dead old people’s language, but a significant part of Church tradition. Our culture is so anti tradition, so it time adults start thinking of ways to protect the church’s tradition.

 

[Young_Thinker]

They(youth a my church) think Mass should be more attention grabbing which means having all modern(up beat) worship music, encouraged clapping even during communion, only modern instruments(no organ), only hugs during the “peace be with you”, more hand holding. This is what you have in Lifeteen Mass.

Oh dear! Trying to associate our ancient Church with everything(more or less) with this age. Why is not a Latin mass exhilerating? I myself am in my twenties and do not feel that we should “accomodate” anyone.

 

[Melchior_1]

Benedictgal, that’s the plan I was going to do (or at least suggest to our music leader, I work closely with on these things, he’ll likely listen). And the next Life Night I’m leading I was planning on using some Sacred Music while the youth were doing some Lectio and/or contemplative prayer. I was also planning on consulting with the Mrs. to see what some good one’s would be, then incorporate them every so often during Lent. The one you posted is solid though, so we’ll pray about it and see. And not just during Lent either, I’m sure we’ll introduce some later on as well.

stringbeanduck, during the “Take and eat; this is My Body” there wouldn’t be any (just like if there was an organ there wouldn’t be an organ then either). During the Mass no music happens while the Priest says those words. There’s a time and a place for music during Mass, that’s not one of them. At some point during the Last Supper though, would you really be all that shocked if there was some? I doubt the last supper was totally a supper solemn moment all of the time.

Matt, I don’t think you have anything to fear from “Latin only” making a comeback. We should be thrilled that “Latin optional” is making a comeback though, because it does have a rich tradition both musically and within the Church itself. We can’t lose the wonderful things it brings to the Lord’s Table. There’s room for both, and like I said before any modern music advocate must acknowledge musical history to have any chance of being effective. The reason why the Holy See is pushing Latin/Sacred Music hard at moment is;

• Pope BXVI loves (LOVES) it.
• They are worried of it dying out and that youth won’t carry it on.

Will they make it mandatory? Highly unlikely. But they will continue promoting it, as they should. And in the case of deciding about LT, the Church leaders have the final say. If they tell us to stop, we’ll stop. If they tell us we’re doing fine (which they did), then we’ll keep chugging along. That’s the beauty of Catholicism, we have Authoritative Documents, we have Authoritative Leaders who interpret them, and we have what was passed down from the Twelve. At times some things have matured over time (tradition), other things have remained the same (Tradition).

The reality is, regardless of opinions about Life Teen and other youth programs, what should be at the heart of all Youth Ministries is to lead teens to the Eucharist and bring them to love the Mother Church and all within. This includes fostering a love of Sacred Music and the Ancient Language. They don’t have to like it, but I want to fister respect at the least, love at the most.

EDIT: They(youth a my church) think Mass should be more attention grabbing which means having all modern(up beat) worship music, encouraged clapping even during communion, only modern instruments(no organ), only hugs during the “peace be with you”, more hand holding. This is what you have in Lifeteen Mass.

• Clapping during Communion is terrible, and the music team should be admonished for choosing upbeat music during that time.
• No music team, regardless of instruments, should detract from the Mass.
• Handshakes to those in the pew you’re in.
• If you looked into what Life Teen actually outlines, you will see that you are in agreement with itmore than you think.

Summary; they’re doing it wrong, and that is not reflective of Life Teen as a whole. You should contact the LT head office and explain the situation, or perhaps your local Bishop.

 

[benedictgal]

Latin is fine for those who like it. I just don’t want it as the only option. Latin or even English were not the official language used in the early church communities we read about in early Acts. I like speaking-liturgy. Whatever speaks to you, me, anyone else is fine with me. To each his or her own preference.

However, your third sentence seems to me, as I read it, to start delving into antiquarianism, a heresy condemned by the Church. Latin is the official language of the Church. It is the language of the liturgy. What you might not realize is that Latin is the default and the vernacular is the option.

 

[CMatt25]

However, your third sentence seems to me, as I read it, to start delving into antiquarianism, a heresy condemned by the Church. Latin is the official language of the Church. It is the language of the liturgy. What you might not realize is that Latin is the default and the vernacular is the option.

Not really since I am not saying the Mass need only be in the language of the first disciples. Quite the contrary. I’m only saying it need not be only in Latin or English or whatever or even in only a “traditional” style. But all sorts for different folk. You can attend whatever Mass you prefer. I can attend whichever I prefer. Both receiving the Eucharist. Seems to me we have a lot more to worry about in the world today than Lifeteen or the desire by some to replace vernacular with Latin. Of far greater importance I believe to the Gospels is poverty, war, world hunger, homelessness, lack of adequate affordable health care for God’s people on earth. Opposing guitars and drums and bringing back Latin pretty far down Christ’s list of concerns I would say if on His list at all.

 

[MIKE46]

palmas85;6267867:

“Many”. I can just as easily say I have seen “many” that have followed the directives accordingly.

They are “well covered” because they initiated a dialogue with the Holy See to ensure that the Mass followed the GIRM, done in conjunction with the USCCB. After those discussions, they proceeded to communicate the news to the people that needed to know.

The behold the power of the Internet, where several lads posted on her blog the full contents of the letter in question.

----- *

A letter has been sent by Msgr. Dale Fushek, founder (I think) and director of Life Teen, regarding a June meeting that Bishop Olmsted of Phoenix had with Cardinal Arinze [head of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments] specifically about the program. As a result of these and other discussions, the letter states:

As the founder of this youth movement, I am writing to confirm our adherence to the new GIRM, and as always, our obedience to our own local Bishops. In this spirit of obedience, we are asking all parishes that implement the LIFE TEEN model to make the following changes:

1. In accordance with the new GIRM, teens are no longer to enter the sanctuary for the Eucharistic prayer. Being in the sanctuary is to be reserved for the priest celebrant, concelebrants, and those performing a specific ministry.
2. The GIRM very specifically offers three options for the end of the Mass. We are to cease using the phrase “The Mass Never Ends, It Must Be Lived” and begin using one of the three prescribed endings found in the Missal.
3. After music practice or welcoming, please make sure there is a period of silence to begin the liturgical celebration.
4. As we have always taught, please make sure the music does not in any way detract from the action at the altar, ambo, or chair.
5. Please make sure that full implementation of the GIRM is done in accordance with your Diocese and accomplished with a spirit of joy.

I am sure these issues will be hard on some parishes and teens. But, let me assure you, our cooperation with Rome and the BCL will only enhance our liturgical celebrations and our mission in the Church. It will be essential that we catechize our teens and their families on what we are doing, and why we are doing it.
*

---

That was the letter sent to Life Teen leadership and the different churches that had Life Teen programs. There is nothing there about things being optional, there is nothing there about “if this is too hard you don’t have to do it”. Nothing is optional regarding following the Magisterium of the Church. Any Life Teen program that fails to do that is doing a disservice to all, not being true to the actual program (check out the website), and is no different than other sects/schisms/break out groups who chose to not follow Rome.

Dale Fushek has issues, no one is denying that. To discredit everything he has ever done would the be same as discrediting some of early Church Fathers, key Old testament figures, and not to mention quite a few clergy in the present day. Hasn’t there been a couple of orders of priests who have had issues in the past been in the news lately? Dale had some decent stuff at the start, he sadly went off over the deep end. He was not as anchored into the Sacraments as one would hope, and he obviously hard issues with Rome. He’s not the first, won’t be the last.

The difference between us and Dale? Right now we’re in full communion with Rome, Orthodox, and obedient to the wishes of the Holy See. Dale made his bed, and we’ve washed our hands accordingly. We’re continuing to bring teens closer to Christ through the Eucharist.

EDIT: At this time I realize that I mistoke some of what you said. At first I thought from the way you were typing you were saying that Life Teen told people in the letter that they would not have to follow the edict if it was “too hard”, which I took as bearing false witness as the letter did not say that. After further reading, I was likely mistaken and due to lack of sleep I misread what your wrote. My apologies!

So let me get this straight The former abuses no longer occur. Is that what you are telling us?

 

[Catholicdude92]

I just turned 18 and I’ve been involved in life teen throughout highschool as a core member. I believe it might be helpful if I gave my 2 cents.

In regard to learning about my faith, Lifeteen has done very little, perhaps nothing for me. I’ve learned more in reading books on my own and off of this web site than in all the years I’ve been apart of the lifeteen program. Grant it, I’ve been raised in a good catholic family, so i guess i know alot more than your average catholic teen, but I think that’s sad, because I’m no theologian by any means.

There are TONS of seniors( in my parish) with 3, 4 years of lifeteen behind them that don’t know the 10 commandments, or the 7 gifts of the holy spirit. Maybe half of them know the 7 sacraments. The vast majority would fail a 2nd grade baltimore catechism test. That’s flat out sad. Not that memorizing catechism will get you to heaven, but how are you supposed to love and embrace a faith that you don’t even know the basics about. Call me old school, but there are some things you just have to learn.

Another problem is that a large number of teens stop practicing their faith after leaving lifeteen. a large number of them become agnostic. I’ll blame that problem (partly Parents don’t get off the hook) on focusing almost exclusively on border-line emotionalism. There is so much stress on that “feeling” that people who don’t experience it have nothing to show and doubt their faith. They embrace agnosticism instead. On the opposite side there are people who embrace that “feeling” and leave the faith because they don’t feel that way all the time.

We need to ask ourselves: Should the objective of religious education be to draw large numbers of people who become luke warm, or a smaller number that know, love and practice the faith (and evangelize on their own)?

Another thing I’ve noticed (as a teen) was the attempt by youth ministers to be “cool” “Hip” “current” I think the majority of teens react to this sort of behavior as kinda lame and fake. Don’t try and bring yourself down to the kids level, bring them up to your level. Let teens know you expect highly of them then build them up. Teens can grasp difficult concepts. Teens hate being talked down to, but that doesn’t mean you have to be their equal to earn their respect.

With all that said I see a lot of good that has come from lifeteen, but I think there may be better ways of doing things. Perhaps we could revise the program a bit, there is always ALOT room to improve.

Just my opinions from experience.

 

[Melchior_1]

Melchior_;6267985:

So let me get this straight The former abuses no longer occur. Is that what you are telling us?

The abuses outlined in the letter SHOULD NOT be occurring. Period.

Sadly, not everyone is all hopping aboard the Magisterium Train of Obedience (which they should be), which is why people still see crazy stuff happening. The leaders of Life Teen and local bishops need to know what is going on. If you look at the links I provided before, a Life Teen Mass isn’t very much different than other Masses (the music might be an exception for some, but even non-youth Masses have modern music sometimes). A link I provided before outlined a 'Youth Mass", and I don’t think 98% of the people here would object to it. If people actually read what Life Teen is about, I don’t think people would object to what they’re trying to do. Sadly, people are people, and mistakes happen. At stringbeanduck’s Parish, if he isn’t embellishing details, they need to correct some actions (up-tempo songs at Communion are TERRIBLY out of place, regardless of your preference of music within Mass). Life Teen is explicit when they say that they stay in contact with the Bishop(s) in their area to make sure they are doing things by the book.

At my Parish and the other Life Teen Parishes in Eastern Ontario no such abuses are happening, I have seen this first hand and can attest to this. And, once again, everything passes through the Archbishop to ensure we are following proper liturgical procedure and norms. Everything from the style of music to when we give our “promos” for the Life Night are vetted on a fairly regular basis (ie; he drops by from time to time to see how we’re doing. He’s cool like that). The Archbishop says we’re rolling along fine, so I’m pleased.

Long story short; that’s the way it SHOULD be done. Life Teen Masses, if doen right should be just like any other vernacular Mass except;

• Modern style of Music. Please note, however, that other Masses do this. Also note we still do some Sacred Music depending on the time of year, skill of the musicians, liturgical setting, etc, etc.
• The priest will at times mention something specific towards the youth during his homily, however overall the homily is of course directed to the Church as a whole.
• Teens can either sit with each other or with their families. They are, however, NOT encouraged to sit by people who will distract them (and sometimes that can be families).
• There is often an announcement of some kind regarding the Life Night. This usually happens after the Mass proper, although no different than how some Parishes do their announcements.

Not really anything too different there IMHO. Anything else better have the Bishop’s approval.

 

[Melchior_1]

I just turned 18 and I’ve been involved in life teen throughout highschool as a core member. I believe it might be helpful if I gave my 2 cents.

In regard to learning about my faith, Lifeteen has done very little, perhaps nothing for me. I’ve learned more in reading books on my own and off of this web site than in all the years I’ve been apart of the lifeteen program. Grant it, I’ve been raised in a good catholic family, so i guess i know alot more than your average catholic teen, but I think that’s sad, because I’m no theologian by any means.

There are TONS of seniors( in my parish) with 3, 4 years of lifeteen behind them that don’t know the 10 commandments, or the 7 gifts of the holy spirit. Maybe half of them know the 7 sacraments. The vast majority would fail a 2nd grade baltimore catechism test. That’s flat out sad. Not that memorizing catechism will get you to heaven, but how are you supposed to love and embrace a faith that you don’t even know the basics about. Call me old school, but there are some things you just have to learn.

Another problem is that a large number of teens stop practicing their faith after leaving lifeteen. a large number of them become agnostic. I’ll blame that problem (partly Parents don’t get off the hook) on focusing almost exclusively on border-line emotionalism. There is so much stress on that “feeling” that people who don’t experience it have nothing to show and doubt their faith. They embrace agnosticism instead. On the opposite side there are people who embrace that “feeling” and leave the faith because they don’t feel that way all the time.

We need to ask ourselves: Should the objective of religious education be to draw large numbers of people who become luke warm, or a smaller number that know, love and practice the faith (and evangelize on their own)?

Another thing I’ve noticed (as a teen) was the attempt by youth ministers to be “cool” “Hip” “current” I think the majority of teens react to this sort of behavior as kinda lame and fake. Don’t try and bring yourself down to the kids level, bring them up to your level. Let teens know you expect highly of them then build them up. Teens can grasp difficult concepts. Teens hate being talked down to, but that doesn’t mean you have to be their equal to earn their respect.

With all that said I see a lot of good that has come from lifeteen, but I think there may be better ways of doing things. Perhaps we could revise the program a bit, there is always ALOT room to improve.

Just my opinions from experience.

Catholicdude, a couple of points;

• Where I’m at you can’t be a Core Member until half a year (at least) you finished high school. If you’re 18 it seems strange they would have you on the Core Team. Are you talking about being on Edge Crew (the program for Grades 7-8)?
• As an instructor for the Faith, I make it a point that I educate people as much as possible. I let the Youth know they can approach me at anytime with questions. If I don’t know the answer, I’ll get it for them (and in turn learn for myself, it’s a win-win!). I am not alone with this though, we are consistently trying to help these kids out about learning more about their Faith.
• The Core Members at your Parish dropped the ball and need to re-focus their efforts on being Eucharist centered with a passion of sharing their faith with teens. They need to break things down for them so they care explain the Faith to their friends at school and answer questions. That’s what we do in my city, and it’s a shame they don’t do it in yours.
• We also find out where the kids are going after they are done high school and inform them of local activities and University groups they can join so they can continue on their journey. We also HEAVILY promote the Catholic Women’s League and the Knights of Columbus and encourage the teens to take that step and join those two outstanding organizations.

I’m not saying the program is perfect, none are. But so much of it is the leaders. And the participants as well. “Garbage in, Garbage Out”, after all.

I will be praying for your Church, and their program.

 

[Catholicdude92]

@ Melchior_, thank you for your prayers.

We have a core team that is open to adults and teens. We have to go to all the meetings and such. I’ve been on it for 2 years. I’m a Senior in highschool.

Our confirmation prep is very good, and teaches an awful lot about the faith, but they don’t just use the Lifeteen program for that, they use other materials as well. One of the reasons we (my family) chose our particular parish is because it has one of the better youth programs in the area. The people that run it do the best they can and I have nothing but respect for them.

With that said I still think the focus is too much on feelings. I’ve attended other Lifeteen events (with our youthgroup) and they all seem pretty much the same. Some are run better than others though.

I don’t mean to bash the program, I’m sure some people make it work just fine. I think poor parenting is probably more to blame than anything else for all the problems because we wouldn’t have to be so basic all the time.

In some ways i feel scope is too limited to charismatic worship. I understand that some like that sort of thing and I’m not against it, In fact I sometimes enjoy it, but it’s not for everyone. Some people prefer a more quiet way of praying and worshiping. I think it would be nice if they exposed kids to some traditional hymns and stuff. They say teens won’t like it, but I find I enjoy it, and I listen to both Christian and secular rock music outside of church.

I really like that your youth group supports the women’s league and K of C I think I’ll suggest the idea to our youth minister. Anyway, I hope I didn’t sound too negative. It’s just a little frustrating. I like the idea of lifeteen in general, I just think it could use improvements.

God bless.

 

[Melchior_1]

@ Melchior_, thank you for your prayers.

We have a core team that is open to adults and teens. We have to go to all the meetings and such. I’ve been on it for 2 years. I’m a Senior in highschool.

Our confirmation prep is very good, and teaches an awful lot about the faith, but they don’t just use the Lifeteen program for that, they use other materials as well. One of the reasons we (my family) chose our particular parish is because it has one of the better youth programs in the area. The people that run it do the best they can and I have nothing but respect for them.

With that said I still think the focus is too much on feelings. I’ve attended other Lifeteen events (with our youthgroup) and they all seem pretty much the same. Some are run better than others though.

I don’t mean to bash the program, I’m sure some people make it work just fine. I think poor parenting is probably more to blame than anything else for all the problems because we wouldn’t have to be so basic all the time.

In some ways i feel scope is too limited to charismatic worship. I understand that some like that sort of thing and I’m not against it, In fact I sometimes enjoy it, but it’s not for everyone. Some people prefer a more quiet way of praying and worshiping. I think it would be nice if they exposed kids to some traditional hymns and stuff. They say teens won’t like it, but I find I enjoy it, and I listen to both Christian and secular rock music outside of church.

I really like that your youth group supports the women’s league and K of C I think I’ll suggest the idea to our youth minister. Anyway, I hope I didn’t sound too negative. It’s just a little frustrating. I like the idea of lifeteen in general, I just think it could use improvements.

God bless.

Every program needs improvements, and Life Teen is certainly no exception. Your concerns are valid and it’s easy for the program (or any group) to fall into those trappings. I’m HUGE into fraternity and fellowship, but all too often people focus too much on that and not enough on formation. We’re making a big push on formation right now at my parish.

I hear you with frustrations, believe me. After six and a half plus years volunteering in the program I’ve had my share of those (too many). As it stands now our program has some issues too (chief among them is some of the youth getting complacent), but which ones don’t? We’re doing what we can to make it work though by trying to challenge them to go further in their faith and take up leadership roles in the community.

We’ve made an effort during the Life Nights to expose the youth to different methods of prayer. Things like Lectio Divina and Ignatian Discernment, for example (both highly recommended). Another thing we do every so often is the Divine Mercy Chaplet. Not all youth programs are like this though, which is sad. There’s so much available to us as Catholics, and we need to expose youth to that, I’m PRO Contemporary Music, but DEFINITELY not in exclusion to what came before it.

Our CWL and KofC make it easy to support them, they do so much for the community and for us. Our Parish as a whole is very supportive of the program, and that cannot be discounted with how things work.

You’re very blessed at your age to be in a leadership role within the community. Use that chance to step up and let yourself be heard! Let them know your concerns and your suggestions. If your YM is solid, he/she’ll listen.