Early Adolescent Ministry Initiative
“This ‘millennial’ generation of young people (born since the early ‘80’s) is larger in population than the Baby Boom generation. Imagine the difference we could make in this world by empowering this generation to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in the world!”
-- Mary Lee Becker
BACKGROUND
Those who teach, minister to, and parent youth ages 11 to 14 are used to hearing the comments: “Isn’t that the hardest age group to handle?” “I could never work with middle schoolers.” “All that energy, and so much attitude!”
For those who love the creativity, energy, and hopefulness of pre-teens and young teens, such a perception serves as motivation for a deeper commitment to understand and respond to the special needs of the age group. For those in leadership within the Church, there is a growing sense of urgency within their desire to reach out to early adolescents. The sheer size of the age group known as the “millennials” prompts attention from faith communities, as early adolescents pour into churches across the country, expressing interest in spirituality and seeking relationships with other Christian teens and adult leaders.
Read the full E.A.M.I. Report
E. A. M. I. Summit
“Celebrating Efforts, Sharing Learnings, Naming Needs”
Since the year 2000, a network of parishes throughout the Diocese of Dallas has been intentionally focused on developing ministry with young adolescents (6th-8th grade). During the month of September, 2008, leaders from a number of these parishes gathered individually or as a group with our office team for a Young Adolescent Ministry Summit to share their insights. The information included in this report is a reflection of their learning. It was gathered through consultation conversations, written reports, anecdotal comments and a facilitated group process.