Want to find that one issue upon which at least some Democrats and Republicans can agree? Here it is: the danger that social media poses to our young people. Surgeon General’s warning In the words of United States Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy (pictured): “The mental health crisis among young people is an emergency — Read more
Ireland’s first “Intentional Young Adult Ministry” event was a great success if participant numbers and enthusiasm are measures. Over 160 young adults from all over Ireland gathered for the get-together. The brainchild of the Irish Catholic bishops, the Intentional Young Adult Ministry event comprised participant-led activities, reflection and a Mass. Energy and enthusiasm Keynote speaker Read more
Nick Wilson and Jessica Jackman will represent New Zealand young people at the prestigious International Youth Ministry Congress. The Congress takes place from May 22 to 26 in Rome near Vatican City. A global event, the Youth Ministry Congress will focus on innovative leadership styles and strategies in youth ministry under the theme “Synodal Youth Read more
In the midst of the country’s escalating cost-of-living crisis, the Salvation Army’s State of the Nation 2024 report spotlights the growing socio-economic challenges confronting New Zealanders. The report, Ngā Tukunga Iho – The Things We Inherit, offers an annual assessment of the country’s social progress – this year especially – children and youth housing crime Read more
In a heartfelt message, Pope Francis has called upon young people to become beacons of hope in a world struggling with conflict, suffering and desolation. “When we think of human tragedies, especially the suffering of the innocent, we too can echo some of the Psalms and ask the Lord ‘Why?’ At the same time however, Read more
Controversy has enflamed WYD preparations as conservative Catholics get the wrong end of the evangelisation story. Regardless of his impending cardinal appointment, Bishop Robert Barron has made it clear to Américo Aguiar that he intends to evangelise during his visit to Lisbon. Aguiar, a youthful 49-year-old auxiliary bishop of the Patriarchate of Lisbon, is the Read more
Bishop Steve Lowe will introduce Identity:Identified, the newest spiritual guide for youth, at the World Youth Day 2023 (WYD23) Pilgrims’ Commissioning Mass in Auckland on July 9th. The guide seeks to present Holy Scripture in an engaging manner to younger individuals who may not typically engage with the Bible. The guide, a brainchild of the Read more
Women play a vital role in passing on the faith to the next generation. But when 99% of Catholic churches have a male preacher this Sunday in a world where 50% of the Catholic population are women, it’s time for our daughters and granddaughters — and sons and grandsons — to see us naming out Read more
Anyone paying attention to religion in America has heard about the trend, especially among young Americans, toward disaffiliation with institutions, including the Catholic Church. So I arrived at a recent talk on “Seeking Common Ground Across Generations” prepared for dire and depressing statistics. But I walked away with hope, thanks to speaker Ellen Koneck, executive Read more
The government has launched campaign to help young people navigate break-ups with the long-term aim of preventing family violence, believed to be the first of its kind. Love Better is a programme run by the Ministry of Social Development (MSD) with support from Youthline, and offers a text, phone or email contact with advice specifically Read more