Young adult ministry isn't a one-size-fits-all solution; how Detroit parishes, ministries find success with elusive demographic
(0:03) Czeena Kate, co-founder of the Catholic dating ministry Hot and Holy Hearts on Fire for Christ, talks about how the idea for the speed-dating ministry began in response to some of the “perils” of the dating scene for young adult Catholics.
(1:52) The narrator discusses the topic of the episode — young adult ministry in the Archdiocese of Detroit, particularity in the city itself — and how ministries for this group have been woefully overlooked in past decades.
(4:17) Beth Allison, director of parish mission and operations for St. Aloysius Parish in the heart of downtown Detroit, talks about how the parish has seen a demographic shift since young professionals began moving into the city within the past 10 years.
(12:03) Not every parish, like St. Aloysius, is full of young adults in a transient stage in their life. At many parishes, young adults seem to get lost in a mix of ministries catering to people of all ages and states, including the elderly, established families and children’s ministries. Patrick Howard, young adult ministry coordinator for the Archdiocese of Detroit, explains the challenges.
(16:09) Howard talks about how young adults seek connection with others, which means parishes and ministries must establish robust means of communication, from social media to websites where young adults can quickly and easily find information.
(17:19) Howard reflects on the misperception that to attract young adults, parishes must mimic the culture and provide trendier liturgies and activities. Instead, he says, young adults seek the timeless truths of the Catholic faith and respond to solid catechesis and opportunities to engage in the sacraments.
(20:57) Studies show young adults in today’s generation are experiencing record levels of loneliness, and Howard says this is where the Church has a golden opportunity to evangelize. He suggests parishes and dioceses feel hopeful about the future and seize the chance to provide a sense of belonging for this critical generation.
Reporting by Daniel Meloy; narration and script by Casey McCorry; production by Ron Pangborn
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