Updated
kac September 15, 2005

Preparation for Youth Congress

Pre-Task #1

The participant, in collaboration with the parish/diocesan director of youth ministry and/or the director of social justice/Catholic Charities, is paired with an adult mentor that is willing to serve as a companion during preparations and after completion of the Congress. This individual, while not necessarily participating in to the Congress, will support the young person through prayer throughout the process.

Pre-Task #2

Read "A Place at the Table," the USCCB 2002 pastoral reflection on poverty and social justice. Additionally, review the Scripture passages and selected quotations outlined in the participants instructions.

Pre-Task #3

Identify four (4) individuals—two (2) adults and two (2) peers—who are actively involved in social justice efforts—either individually or through a local organization or agency. Discuss with them their views of poverty and social justice. Photographs, discussion points, and quotations from the above individuals should be included in the Pre-Conference project (see task #6).

Pre-Task #4

As a group of Congress participants from the same parish/diocese, meet with the pastor/bishop, diocesan director of youth ministry and/or the diocesan director of social justice/Catholic Charities to discuss the present efforts underway in your diocese addressing poverty and social justice issues. Identify local organizations working to improve the lives of people in the community—through advocacy, education, direct services, or otherwise. Input and comments should be included in the Pre-Conference project.

Pre-Task #5

It is necessary that Congress participants have previous ‘hands-on’ experience in social justice outreach (ie: service projects, mission trips, volunteer hours with a service organization, etc.) in order to more fully contribute to the discussions and activities. If at all possible, it is strongly suggested that all the Congress participants from a parish/diocese engage in a joint service project prior to the Congress. If it is not possible for the entire group to gather, participants are still strongly encouraged to engage in a service activity prior to the Congress.

Participants will be asked to share their experiences and stories during the Congress of encounters that changed them, changed their perspective or their faith, and about unlikely relationships and friendships that may have developed during service opportunities.

Pre-Task #6

Compile gathered photographs, quotations, and information into ‘poster format’ for presentation and use during the Congress.