Bursting at the Seams – 39 People!

The Hope Room had little hope of containing the massive number of youth who showed up on Friday, November 5 for the regular session of the Amigos de Jesus youth group. In total, there were 39 people crammed into the mid-size room, 35 youth and 4 youth ministers. It was by far the largest gathering in the youth group's recent history.

Joining the youth group for the first time was Br. Anthony Monahan, O.F.M.Cap. Br. Anthony has been working with several members of the youth group on Saturday afternoons in the visitation and door-to-door ministry. Br. Anthony lives at the same friary as the parish's other Capuchin youth minister, Br. Joseph Mary.

This first Friday in November marked a new program for the youth group in which sessions will revolve around a four week (monthly) cycle. Each month will focus on a new aspect of the faith according to the four pillars described in the catechism: doctrine, liturgy, morality, and prayer. Through catechesis, reflection on Scripture, dynamic activities, small group discussions, songs, prayers, and celebrations, the youth will be led to a deeper embrace and understanding of their Catholic faith. The theme for the month of November is “The Sacrament of Reconciliation.”

The youth began the evening with the recitation of the Rosary, as Br. Joseph gave a reflection on how Christ reconciled the world to himself through his Passion. Afterward, it was time to sing. Hymnals were passed around and Br. Joseph led the youth in singing “Save Us O Lord.” It took nine or ten attempts before the youth caught on and it is hoped that next week's performance will be a bit stronger. Following the screeching, Alejandra broke the youth up into four groups with instructions on putting together a fake commercial advertisement. Some of the results were hilarious!

After the commercials, the groups broke up into two smaller prayer groups for Lectio Divina, a prayerful reading of Scripture followed by reflection and personal sharing. The Scripture focused on the sinful woman who washes Jesus' feet with her tears. Many of the youth reflected on their own experience of sin and God's mercy.

The youth reconvened in the Hope Room in time for the November birthday celebrations. Both Omar and Antonio were serenaded to a horrible rendition of “Happy Birthday.” Br. Anthony then brought out the chocolate brownies which he had prepared the night before. The session ended around 8:00 pm.

Attached to this recap is a winter calendar for Amigos de Jesus through January 2011. Please hang it in a visible location in your house. Finally, youth minister Jose Rocha has been working on an Amigos de Jesus website. It can be viewed the following url: http://youthgroupamigosdejesus.com/ Thanks to Jose for all of his hard work!

God's peace,

Br. Joseph