Young people inspired to unleash their potential

Published: 13 June 2010
By: Selina Venier

An interesting duo: Dave Jorna, from Project Hatch, with "Charlie Chooken"

YOUTH ministers in Brisbane are wondering, "Is it all about the rubber chicken?"

Dave Jorna, from Project Hatch - a ministry inspiring faith - will bring the outreach's "signature logo and prop, Charlie Chooken, the rubber chicken" to a youth leader's inservice on Tuesday (June 15) to answer exactly that.

"Dave is enthusiastic about inspiring young people to unleash their inner potential and spirituality," youth ministry development officer with Brisbane archdiocese's Youth and Children's Ministry Team Christine Anderson said.

"He will share the role Charlie plays in retreats and also give us insight into Charlie's appearances at World Youth Day."

The June 15 event is part of "Synago" - a monthly event hosted by the Youth and Children's Ministry Team.

Synago is designed to "give support and formation as well as networking opportunities" for those in youth ministry leadership roles.

"It is often thought that retreats are all about games and props ... yet for anyone who has ever organised and/or facilitated a retreat, you will appreciate that there is a process involved," Christine said.

"This process includes the purpose of the experience and acknowledges the key components that make up a retreat program.

"This day will provide an opportunity for youth ministry co-ordinators, campus ministers and volunteers from parishes, deaneries, schools, movements and organisations to come together to explore areas that directly affect their ministry.

"In particular this day focusing on planning retreats will enable participants to investigate the importance of experiential learning and reflection, learn how to develop a one-day retreat program outline and develop skills in facilitating small and large group activities."

Synago is held at MacKillop Place, 61 Fernberg Road, Paddington, and the monthly cost for attendees is $15 (which includes lunch and morning tea).

To register or for more information phone (07) 3109 6800 or email youthministry@bne.catholic.net.au
Future Synago topics include "Let's work together: Collaboration and decision-making in youth ministry", "Why we do what we do: Young people and the liturgy" and "A Catholic perspective on ecumenism and the implications for ministry with young people".