The 30 April 2021 marked a significant beginning of the first ever cohort involving the Youth Leadership Pathway.
Inspired by Jesus’ method of discipleship, 34 young adults embarked on their one-year journey of discernment to seek their place within the Church.
During this time, as they developed their talents and gifts, this group of like-minded young adults shared their faith within their work, studies, family, friends, and ministries.
The Youth Leadership Pathway is a collaboration developed between Catholic Youth Ministry Perth and the Acts 2 College of Mission and Evangelisation.
A vision which steadily aims to change our youth ministry culture and develop disciples “with a heart of mission”.
This unique opportunity to serve within the YLP program has equipped the young adults aged 18 to 30 with basic youth ministry and professional skills.
Among the challenges comes a discernment of leadership and the potential to discover their own unique vocations, building generations who can inspire and guide other young people into loving the faith and having a community where they truly feel like they belong.
Engaging in youth ministry is about engaging with the future of the church. It is an exciting yet challenging ministry. YLP has provided me the necessary tools and skills to engage in the world of youth ministry with confidence and ease. It has helped me, and others discern their place in youth ministry and whether this is the way God wants us to serve. The YLP program has given me unique opportunities to step out of my own comfort zone which has helped me discover my gifts as I journey with others. Through this program, have been able to discern my why of youth ministry and better see how I fit into the bigger picture of the Church’s mission. – Alysha, 21
There are four main elements of the Youth Leadership Pathway:
Online Modules: Concise videos from a variety of speakers through the online platform, focusing on the upcoming workshop theme.
In-person Workshops: Experts on the overarching workshop themes lead an in-person, interactive session, and discussion.
Spiritual Life Journal: A physical journal to guide participants through the program, providing a space for reflection as well as direction.
Discipleship Support: Participants receive regular mentoring sessions as well as connect with peers through small groups.
We had the amazing opportunity to connect with a mentor to develop one’s faith, guide one’s decisions and even discern one’s vocation. The brothers and sisters I met along the way are now an integral part of my life, and I thank God for providing this experience and opportunity of YLP. – Long, 20
YLP helped to equip me with discerning what gifts the Lord had given me to serve in ministry. The videos and workshops were interactive and relevant in assisting me to develop my leadership skills for building intentional communities. – Shelby, 24
When a young adult finds their place and commitment in the Church, even if it is not within Youth Ministry, the YLP program will assist in outreach to other agencies and ministries throughout the wider Perth Catholic Community.
Regardless of your current pathway, if you are involved or not in youth ministry, or even new to the Catholic faith; a strong passion and committed heart is all that is required to start this journey.
Staff and volunteers of the Youth Leadership Pathway are available to discuss your discernment and support through the program.
If you are interested in joining the next group of the Youth Leadership Pathway, please contact admin@cym.com.au or call us on (08) 9422 7912.