Youth Ministry - Gangs

[Califman831]

Are there any catholic resources that target youth that are currently in a gang or are considering it. I have looked at various prayer books, but they tend to be soft, with the exception of the prayer to st Micheal the archangel. The Catholic bibles tend to be out of their budgets, since they come from very poor families. I’m not sure why protestant ones are cheaper.

The kids want to hold on to the “machismo” while seeking a road to Christ. Those of you who have more experience with these type of kids, please tell me what has worked for you in reaching them.

thanks

 

[SeaShoreGirl]

First, there are many ways to get Bibles cheaply, even Catholic ones. You can try wholesalers like Ingram. You can also appeal to publishers directly to see if you can get the Bibles at cost plus shipping.

There’s alot more protestiants buying bibles. Cost of a book is a function of copies sold and profit margins. (with the exception of best sellers).

Second, I know that flames will probably come, but Lifeteen has some fabulous resources. I know that they focus on the Eucharist, while bringing kids out of the world where gangs are the only form of acceptiance. They get kids to act like kids after some barriers come down.

I’d be careful not to preach “bad boys become good” to them, but rather set up a fresh outpouring and stability in who you are and what you believe.

 

[DCNBILL]

Are there any catholic resources that target youth that are currently in a gang or are considering it. I have looked at various prayer books, but they tend to be soft, with the exception of the prayer to st Micheal the archangel. The Catholic bibles tend to be out of their budgets, since they come from very poor families. I’m not sure why protestant ones are cheaper.

The kids want to hold on to the “machismo” while seeking a road to Christ. Those of you who have more experience with these type of kids, please tell me what has worked for you in reaching them.

thanks

The road to Christ can not be walked by the prideful and arrogant. For one to approach the Lord it is best done with bowed head and bended knee.

In my experience as long as the kids are riding high and feeling good about their bad behavior it is hard to reach them, but when a crises happens such as a friend being shot or after being arrested themselves then opportunities happen.

I know that this does not seem as much help but it is my observation.

 

[SuscipeMeDomine]

When I think of Catholics and gangs, I think of Fr. Greg Boyle and Homeboy Industries. More info is available at homeboy-industries.org/

 

[Califman831]

First, there are many ways to get Bibles cheaply, even Catholic ones. You can try wholesalers like Ingram. You can also appeal to publishers directly to see if you can get the Bibles at cost plus shipping.

Second, I know that flames will probably come, but Lifeteen has some fabulous resources. I know that they focus on the Eucharist, while bringing kids out of the world where gangs are the only form of acceptiance. They get kids to act like kids after some barriers come down.

flipped through one of their catalogs the other day while working in the DRE’s office. It may have belong to the person that occupied that office earlier. Am begining to look into them, their website does contain interesting articles.

I’d be careful not to preach “bad boys become good” to them, but rather set up a fresh outpouring and stability in who you are and what you believe.

This type of preaching may work if you have the background of growing up in the same conditions they are currently living in.

When I think of Catholics and gangs, I think of Fr. Greg Boyle and Homeboy Industries. More info is available at homeboy-industries.org/

Thanks for reminding me that I need to order his books. I wish I had his skills with the kids. Father Boyle keeps popping up as a light in darkness.