tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-20193530763456369022012-02-14T13:59:15.689-05:00Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.comBlogger1671100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-1268139997493417012012-02-14T13:59:00.000-05:002012-02-14T13:59:15.698-05:00

Hello all! Despite my intentions to the contrary, I went dark last week while I headed to the NCYAMA Executive Board meeting that occurs along with the NFCYM membership meeting.  Between delayed flights, lack of internet connection in various places and then coming down with a mild-yet-annoyingly-lingering cold, I have been remiss in getting all but the essentials covered. NCYAMA has many great

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-34048528480704602482012-02-03T20:41:00.000-05:002012-02-03T20:41:39.131-05:00

Confession: I own two Kindles.  In my own defense they were both gifts from my parents.  I am an avid reader - I have two book cases that are filled (completely wedged in every space are books), one more decorative one with special editions (heirlooms from my grandparents) and favorite books, then there are the inevitable stacks on my night stand, coffee table and end tables.  I also have a well

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-53807009625904326012012-02-02T15:09:00.002-05:002012-02-05T11:31:53.490-05:00

Here's a two for the price of one. One: a great online magazine is here.  Church Life: A Journal for the New Evangelization.  You can access it for free from... Open publication - Free publishing - More spirituality Two: ISSUU a publishing site.  Looks to be intreguing.  I  haven't snooped around it too much yet, but there could be things of interest.  I would hazard to say there will also be

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-37238145764612876642012-02-02T14:41:00.000-05:002012-02-02T14:41:40.428-05:00

In what is either a sure sign this youth & young adult minister has gone round the bend or is just really a believer in youth service trips, I just booked what will be the third trip for our youth ministry for the year. We survived New Orleans (though my stress level was through the roof at points). Guatemala is humming along and we're looking forward to that trip later in the summer. But there

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-1217963163613447102012-01-23T13:04:00.000-05:002012-01-23T13:04:43.193-05:00

Since Monday is my day off (though today I have budget meetings at night - an annual, unavoidable event), I am instituting a simple blog post - Monday quotes.  One will be ministry related and the other, just because.   So here we go: What is excruciatingly clear is that, in a postmodern context, evangelization cannot rest primarily on dispensing Christian information.  Believing in God is

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-840259711253566302012-01-22T10:53:00.000-05:002012-01-22T10:53:34.416-05:00

My sophomore year of high school I was in British and World Literature for my lit course. We had to do a research paper on a novel written by a non-American author. The intended length was 5-7 pages. After weeks of research, hundreds of index cards (all color coded, labeled, and hyper-organized), I turned in a 23 page paper on Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. To be honest, this novel was and

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-35537133225390134632012-01-21T12:58:00.001-05:002012-01-21T12:59:05.202-05:00

I have fallen terribly behind on my magazines. I just read one from July/August. I finally got to the November/December Youth Worker Journal and encountered the article "From Bondage to Freedom: A Journey Toward True Discipleship in Youth Ministry." This article was very striking for me. It hit both on the personal and professional fronts. As a certifiable type-A, having a list like the one in

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-86699032568891172542012-01-20T09:31:00.003-05:002012-01-20T09:40:03.045-05:00

With the new year, I have found myself musing over a few things. Partly due to the fact that burrowing into a spare comforter on my sofa is the only thing I want to do when it is 4 degrees outside, partly due to the exhaustion of the winter service trip, and partly due to the realization I've been in the youth & young adult ministry game for 8 1/2 years all at the same parish.First, I would just

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-48402421778805083932011-12-14T16:02:00.002-05:002011-12-14T16:24:05.565-05:00

Confession time for me.I love Doctor Who. Initially it was just something a group of the girls in the youth group loved so I felt I should have a clue what they were talking about each week. Now I am as much a Whovian as they are. I even spent most of my free day on Saturday making a Tardis cake for a going away party.There are countless reasons why I love the show. Here's two:Nobody

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-80471080970358292262011-11-22T16:27:00.003-05:002011-11-22T16:46:56.931-05:00

This past weekend was a little shin-dig in Indy called the National Catholic Youth Conference. Never heard of it? Well, honey! Let me share a few of the highlights:23,000 teens swampped a city...and there were no riots. The wonderful police force who helped keep our kids safe were greeted with kind words, offered the trinkets (and hats, and moustaches) that the kids brought to trade.It wasn't

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-50202190237705174102011-11-04T14:59:00.002-04:002011-11-04T15:12:03.198-04:00

Since I nearly broke my wrist off a few moments ago attempting to twist the cap off my favorite beverage (Sparkling Ice Black Raspberry flavor), I have temporarily misplaced my concentration so here's a blog post instead on a few rambling thoughts.It is pedal to the metal for final NCYC prep. I've got the kids and parents coming to a final meeting Sunday before out evening Mass. Handing out all

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-48439617539251386002011-10-17T13:26:00.002-04:002011-10-17T13:34:19.268-04:00

I hate catch words. I use the word hate here in the fullest sense of the word. There are always the latest words that come down the line of business and church books. Synergy is one I regard with particular loathing. Why does this bother me? Probably it does so on two levels. First, many of these words are made up. There are so many beautiful, descriptive, and unusual words in the English

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-88245589357835977282011-10-14T10:46:00.003-04:002011-10-14T11:17:14.642-04:00

My cable company is pretty far down on my list of favorite businesses to call. In fact, it is probably at the bottom of the list.However, during a conversation with a sales representative last night, I had a surprising lesson.I was calling simply to reduce my cable channels - getting a big packet of channels just to watch Doctor Who for a few weeks of the year was silly. I never watched the vast

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-22656587411352528292011-10-12T11:27:00.002-04:002011-10-12T12:48:43.599-04:00

"The best-laid schemes o' mice an' men gang aft agley."~Robert Burns, "To a Mouse"That, in a short and oh so Scottish way, sums up my week. All those little things and routines have fallen apart at the seams.Without going into overwhelming detail about my less than relaxing day off on Monday, we'll just say it set things up well for what was waiting for me here in the office yesterday.For the

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-62837083711362237612011-10-05T14:55:00.001-04:002011-10-05T14:58:47.387-04:00

It is a busy day here. So I simply leave you with what I love, a quote that makes you think...God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.~Regina Brett

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-45731428711419589652011-10-04T15:42:00.006-04:002011-10-04T17:29:01.164-04:00

I'm a dog person. How can you tell? Well, let's gauge me and cats. Cats love me, I mean find the cat that hates all humans as lower life forms. That cat will adore me. Ironically, all those cats that love to come and find me when I visit friends houses result in me scaring away all other life forms with monstrous sneezes and a horrifically congested nose. My theory is that the cats derive some

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-18548815003586840652011-09-22T17:34:00.002-04:002011-09-22T18:14:15.521-04:00

A few years ago I took a very small group of teens and chaperones (nearly equal numbers) on a service trip to Guatemala City with International Samaritan.Let me set the scene. Picture the worst poverty you have ever seen first hand. Got it? Toss that mental image out the window because it probably doesn't hold a candle to the poverty of the individuals who live in the city garbage dump community.

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-44059045788325911882011-09-21T14:32:00.003-04:002011-09-21T14:39:02.812-04:00

Switching gears, here are two digital tools I find incredible -InstapaperThis handy little app for your computer, iPhone and so forth allows you to clip text, websites, etc. and come back to read them later. You can sync it with your Twitter app on your phone which I find helpful when there's a link I want to follow but at that moment the dentist calls me back for that pesky appointment. It is

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-55223114602834889502011-09-20T17:22:00.002-04:002011-09-20T17:33:50.960-04:00

We have now had two Sundays of youth group for this year and we have an unexpected composition forming this year.Being of an internationally minded community courtesy of the large university in our area, many families host youth from abroad. A few drop in to youth group, some stay, some find it a bit too foreign for them. Most years we don't have a steady number, maybe just one.This year a mom

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-55610066517772375702011-09-18T17:21:00.003-04:002011-09-18T17:41:05.436-04:00

For days following September 11, 2001, it was eerie in Manhattan. Bustling streets were haunted by the thousands of feet and voices that would never again echo down the pavement. Smoke and debris covered the ground like shockingly painful snow.Beyond the physical ramifications and clear tragedy of the day, we were left in a state of questioning. To quote my favorite fictional President, "

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-20418427996668199712011-09-10T13:26:00.002-04:002011-09-10T13:37:31.234-04:00

Everyone in ministry always is thinking of "the day." The day you need to deal with tragedy, suffering, mourning. We prepare. We have that file of counselors, therapists, extra leaders, local resources. We dread the day, but we know that it will come.But what of the day before? We never know when "the day" will hit. Today could be the day before.What are we doing to prepare ourselves and

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-70209441896644328412011-09-09T16:09:00.004-04:002011-09-09T16:34:51.509-04:00

I wasn't there.I was on the second to last step of the beat-up house I rented with 7 other Catholic women during my junior year of college. I was confronted with my other early-rising roommate who simply said, "Can you believe it?"She thought I already had been up and watching the news. She and I were routinely up by 7:00 am CST allowing us the chance to watch one of the major network morning

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-33513493045247335592011-09-08T11:47:00.003-04:002011-09-08T11:51:47.665-04:00

Just have a few moments before a staff meeting.I've dropped a few things into Delicious, but for those not using that service, here are a few items of interest:The Beloit Mindset (yet another great thing from my homestate of Wisconsin). A fascinating look at this year's freshman college class. Also, likely the only time that Ferris Bueller and altar servers will be on the same list.A great

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-40965958080717273782011-09-02T14:41:00.002-04:002011-09-02T15:01:09.910-04:00

I was going to wait a couple of more days before diving into my reflections on this most recent WYD. Perhaps it was the quick trip to Trader Joe's in 100+ degree heat index that brought back far too vivid memories? Perhaps it was a 20 minute phone call with our travel group? Or perhaps it is the greatest truth of WYD... Since we took such a small group, only 13 total, I most frequently deal with

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-14139876601753746242011-09-02T08:57:00.003-04:002011-09-02T09:02:30.271-04:00

Quite literally. I pulled out the umbrella I took to Cuatros Vientros for the Vigil and a cloud of dust descended. Should have cleaned that previously. I fully intend to share my reflections. However, today is just my second day in the office after being out of the office for a month (literally from August 2 to September 1). Should you wish to hear what we did for our WYD pilgrimage, here's our

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-53529712248382601462011-08-09T10:12:00.002-04:002011-08-09T10:22:49.820-04:00

Surprisingly, I am all set and have about an hour and a half before I have to head to the church to meet all the kids and young adults. I had a leisurely morning thus far of last minute packing (toiletries), Monkey Bread, and hanging out with my brother and sister-in-law. The bin is al set with final information to pass out - rosaries, bookmarks for trading, and our pilgrim books. We will then

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-36097441098317725972011-08-07T19:45:00.002-04:002011-08-07T19:59:46.985-04:00

Periodically I get odd looks from my brother. Even more than usual. It is probably due to the strange little "I-can't-believe-we-leave-in-less-than-48-hours" dance I do. If Jello-O could carry electrical current, that's what the dance looks like. Not attractive.Basically my excitement has hit full force. I pulled out the suitcase (my dog is suitably depressed now). I'm sorting what goes

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-49056501196921542142011-08-01T09:12:00.002-04:002011-08-01T09:21:11.594-04:00

Since there's enough to do, here's rundown of today's WYD highlights:Put copies of passport photo pages into the chaperone packetsPut the birth certificates (new requirement from Dept. of State) into my packetCheck the information on the phone tree, print, copy and put into chaperone packetsPut one phone tree into the folder that will be left for our pastor and at the front deskPut the letter for

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-61043246181101166882011-07-31T07:18:00.002-04:002011-07-31T07:27:34.179-04:00

One of the best things you can do for your WYD preparations is to take care of yourself. I woke at about 5:45 am this morning. Well before I needed to be up. I woke with a terrible headache and was quite warm (didn't turn my ceiling fan on last night and I have grown accustomed to that - thanks Dad for installing that this past spring!).Instead of wallowing in my misery, I pulled myself

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-66426568575081646762011-07-29T09:47:00.003-04:002011-07-29T10:05:27.538-04:00

It is probably a toss up whether Matthew 11.28-30 or Hebrews 11.1 wins the favorite scripture verse for me. Usually depends on my mood.However, in the lens of my normal state of being and, in particular, WYD, Matthew 11.28-30 wins today."Come to me all who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-73168952432476867492011-07-28T08:56:00.002-04:002011-07-28T09:09:47.666-04:00

I give out a packing list to the group that is pretty comprehensive. I will skip the hopefully obvious items (clothing, shoes, shampoo, etc.). Here are some of the items you may not have thought of (or may be forgetting in your busy preparations):Travel Toilet Paper - Charmin To Go is one brand and camping stores will have their own. This is something that if you need it, you need it. We really

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-3812262878314546482011-07-27T16:03:00.002-04:002011-07-27T16:13:15.907-04:00

Here's something - what's your plan for the first few days to two weeks after WYD?I have been to 4 WYDs. I have come home sick from each. Ranging from a head cold to the condition I fondly referred to as the deadly, oozing plague of death, each WYD holds a special set of germs just for me.Now that I know to anticipate the aftereffects of low levels of sleep, high levels of chaos (read stress),

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-32471115961972603542011-07-26T16:14:00.003-04:002011-07-26T16:24:51.071-04:00

Never is one consoled by back to back emails containing information from two state agencies/departments.First there was the notice that a world travel advisory was put out by the U.S. State Department. Fabulous.Second was the CDC's warning about measles in Europe. Fantastic.More chocolate please! Another coffee!Seriously, this brings up my advice on prep today. As much as it can annoy some in

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-22111617233678009752011-07-25T11:18:00.002-04:002011-07-25T11:33:51.717-04:00

Here we are, 15 days to departure for our group. I know everyone has their own prep work, but here's a few highlights from mine:Double checked my first aid kits - plenty of band-aids, ibuprofen, instant ice packs (good for sore ankles and headaches), etc.Double checked health forms for all adults and youth on your trip. Know what conditions you are dealing with - from migraines to diabetes to

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-4008100081641437372011-07-13T17:22:00.002-04:002011-07-13T17:30:25.088-04:00

That time has started. Where my brain cracks from the pre-WYD stress and creates unusual dreams while I get my 32 minutes of sleep each night.A coworker said the same thing a friend did, that WYD is like giving birth. You have to forget the stress, chaos, agony, worry to allow yourself the absolute joy of going yet again somewhere to the ends of the earth with young people in tow. All kidding

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-64095067813543094792011-07-08T09:19:00.003-04:002011-07-08T09:42:29.282-04:00

I love the Sister Act movies. Yes, even the second one. I don't just mean I appreciated them when they came out (the first one was way back in middle school for me). I mean I excitedly change the channel from a favorite TV show if they are on. There's something about the combination of Whoopi and Maggie Smith that is so so delightfully odd that I love it.In the second film, Whoopi's Sister Mary

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-88119943309852764522011-06-02T09:43:00.002-04:002011-06-02T09:48:19.035-04:00

68 Days that is...We have just 68 days until the start of our World Youth Day pilgrimage. Last night was the marathon meeting where I torture participants and parents (for the minors and a few of the college age kids) with a full display of my Type-A personality and love of Presentation (Apple's version of Power Point).All the legal forms for the minors are now out. Everyone has their packing

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-66052458137179167242011-06-01T13:43:00.002-04:002011-06-01T13:56:49.197-04:00

At my brother's wedding, the quote was used, "All gave some, some gave all." This was in reference to the three friends of his who had died in service of our country. As a graduate of our nation's military academy, that might not be such an incredible percentage. But when you consider he had graduated just four years before and that those three young men left family and friends behind, you cannot

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-86763300463599501982011-04-29T10:23:00.004-04:002011-04-29T10:31:22.272-04:00

Did you ever consider we might be using the wrong words?I just got an email from a group that began by citing statistics on how people are leaving the Church and the need to respond. Yes, this is an issue. I would be the organization has great ideas and wonderful resources.But I think our fundamental issue may lie in how we talk about the issue.We get so concerned over empty pews, low collections

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-51125165699803474152011-04-28T13:25:00.002-04:002011-04-28T13:32:02.357-04:00

Most people at some point in their lives wonder what impact they have had on others. Sometimes this comes when a parent is sending their child off to college or as one lies close to death. At the ripe old age of 30 I have come to a conclusion. We will never know the full impact of our lives and it is probably for the best that it is so.With the world looking either to London or Rome, depending on

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-28196210409784829092011-04-19T17:32:00.003-04:002011-04-19T17:45:33.762-04:00

Every year for the Living Way of the Cross, we have to rehearse one part over and over. And it is an easy part - The point in the Way of the Cross when the crowds yell, "Crucify Him!"Every year the kids are too quiet. These are the same kids who just five minutes ago I had to shush for talking too much while 'back stage' in the sacristy. It is one thing for them to talk about the latest app

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-71514719307073185052011-04-17T17:00:00.002-04:002011-04-17T17:10:14.064-04:00

Today is a day of questions."Are you the King of the Jews?""Which one do you want me to release to you, Barabbas or Jesus called Christ?""Then what shall I do with Jesus called Christ?""Why? What evil has he done?""My God, My God, Why have you forsaken me?"These questions that appear in today's Gospel are so powerful. They have the ability to challenge the state, topple religious authority,

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-45294518140122167172011-04-16T15:44:00.002-04:002011-04-16T15:53:51.485-04:00

Oh the difference of a liturgical year!Last year this time I was debating with a lovely young woman from Wisconsin the relative merits of the two pairs of shoes I had in my luggage. This was a highly unusual conversation for me as I have little interest in shoes beyond looking appropriate. However, that was the crucial issue. Comfort and appropriateness.Last year on the Saturday before Palm

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-71906670184275410082011-03-31T14:37:00.003-04:002011-03-31T14:46:14.999-04:00

Awhile ago now, I stumbled upon a great prayer resource: Worldprayers.org. I encourage you to explore it. Here is one that spoke to me today - O great and powerful ocean,I fear and respect your beauty.I wish not to take awaynor leave anything behind.I only wish to dancewith you a short while.~A surfer's prayer

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-41983026805152962932011-03-24T14:17:00.003-04:002011-03-24T14:27:34.939-04:00

This past Sunday we heard the story of the Transfiguration at Mass. We're all (hopefully) well acquainted with it. Often this story brings up conversations about the mountain tops - the high points - in our lives and spiritual journeys. Homilists, catechists, and even us youth and young adult ministers quickly bring up that we cannot live on the mountain top. We speak of how there are usually

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-7979282211474994432011-03-23T12:43:00.004-04:002011-03-23T13:02:01.907-04:00

Today we could not use our computers in our office until about 11:00 am. For most of the morning, we were hamstrung. Everything on my "to do" list and all the things I could possibly think of to do required my computer. I ended up sorting through the piles on the credenza behind me. No more looming piles of paperwork or magazines. But it was quite the reality check. Once upon a time, not so very

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-54718885257750796372011-03-20T15:33:00.004-04:002011-03-21T17:31:08.254-04:00

On Saturday I have the task of somehow expressing in approximately 50 minutes the experience of the young adult Church around the world.......yeah....ummm....okay....Now it can be safely assumed that there is no possible way to completely present that topic in that time allotted. So, I find myself whittling things down to a few ideas:1. My experiences of Church. I've traveled to some different

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-24098423778072414412011-03-20T15:24:00.002-04:002011-03-20T15:31:04.502-04:00

Somewhere between apathy and a God-complex lies the day to day life of your average youth minister. Finding a healthy, holy spot in that spectrum is a daily challenge.This is particularly challenging when faced with all those teens you see in your community that are not crossing the threshold of the youth room. There is a great temptation to believe that if we don't reach them, then they are

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-23055244429032208282011-03-17T18:20:00.001-04:002011-03-17T18:21:23.466-04:00

I have to watch Hotel Rwanda in the next day or so. I need to pull a clip from it for youth group on Sunday. Our discussion is focusing on "Us and Them," the divides we create or believe are there when we talk about social justice issues and service.As the film accurately explains, the difference between the Hutus and Tutsis was basically imposed during the colonial era. In the film, the white

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-28217628509466511342011-03-09T08:54:00.001-05:002011-03-09T08:56:47.124-05:00

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-87472328200856381122011-03-01T17:05:00.002-05:002011-03-01T17:19:12.232-05:00

A couple of weeks ago, a friend posted a question on Facebook that started a huge discusison on the simple geography of where one sits at Mass on Sunday.Very, very quickly people jumped in and bewailed how there are so few of the good sort of Catholics who sit quietly, reverentially and so very close to the altar. They disparaged those that lurk near the doors of the church, hinting that those

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-19660775512053382242011-02-10T13:33:00.002-05:002011-02-10T13:50:11.032-05:00

Bear with me, I am likely to ramble, but this is something I really believe in. A while ago, a great blogger, D. Scott Miller posted about the need to be in the food court, not bringing everyone to the table. Read his post here, then come back to this. Good? Okay. Next. World Youth Day is on my mind - we're at the 180 day mark for our trip (we're going to Rome first for a pilgrimage there).

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-15337317472516710642011-01-16T15:39:00.003-05:002011-01-16T15:46:23.975-05:00

Papers with color coded words are carefully arranged on the board.Loops of painters tape are ready to post discussion questions.Furniture is moved.Floor chairs are arranged in a circle.Four pounds of M&Ms are sorted into separate color dishes. (Yes, I'm paid to do this.)Water is ready to be heated for hot cocoa and tea. The fridge is stocked with soda.This is the anticipation of youth group.

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-80895146266532411822011-01-14T11:18:00.004-05:002011-01-14T11:28:12.611-05:00

...But can I start warming up the phrase, "I told you so."Whispers In the Loggia has tweeted that "strong buzz running that post-Madrid WYD will head to South America -- world's largest Catholic country: Brazil, Rio, July 2013."Couple of things here - Brazil - fantastic. About time we head to South America.July - fantastic again. With highs averaging in the upper 70s, it will feel cool in

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-82944554748731033242011-01-12T14:25:00.003-05:002011-01-12T14:28:49.216-05:00

This month, Youth Worker Journal, has dedicated their issue to Technology & Youth Culture. As usual, it is a fantastic, thoughtful read. That said, here's my two cents. Technology is a tool. Like any tool it can be used for good or evil. A tool in the hand of a master craftsman creates works of art. A tool in the hand of a genius or inventor creates useful, helpful, even lifesaving items. A

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-63647212715016491432010-10-06T16:10:00.003-04:002011-01-12T14:46:55.699-05:00

Here's a great YouTube video to remind us all of who we are (and a nice rip off of the Old Spice Guy).

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-55155971379934025812010-09-29T11:22:00.002-04:002010-09-29T11:37:03.417-04:00

The winds whip all around. The craft is so very small and the waves are so very large. The person you look to for comfort is missing, no, is there, but on the very troubling waters. He says come. You go. You doubt. You fall. And immediately he reaches to you. This weekend we took our high school youth on retreat where we focused on that passage from Matthew (14.22-33). We challenged our

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-67391372459004320012010-08-20T11:48:00.002-04:002010-08-20T11:58:18.484-04:00

The time has come... The start of the new school year is no longer something one can say is months away, it is only days. Young adults are returning from their vacations and finishing their Ultimate Frisbee tournaments. The time has come when a youth and young adult minister is utterly swamped and usually stressed. The time has come... When the temptation to live off the pizza, chips, soda,

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-22943772925838167132010-08-20T11:46:00.003-04:002010-08-20T11:48:09.454-04:00

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-40784973225060967522010-07-15T08:45:00.001-04:002010-07-15T08:47:42.357-04:00

The Vatican has released the modifications to the decree that applies to those accused of sexual abuse of minors. Please take some time to read the document.

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-40921207674184762972010-07-02T12:45:00.003-04:002010-07-02T12:56:51.866-04:00

This time of year gets me to thinking about whether or not I, the ministry, the service trip, or whatever it is that I'm worrying about really makes a difference.When you're bogged down with permission forms, van rental agreements, room lists, and all the rest, it seems like you're simply doing busy work.Then there's the countless hours spent in preparation for the fall kick-off, fall retreat,

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-53230102019312469352010-05-06T10:27:00.002-04:002010-05-06T10:30:47.460-04:00

In a recent article from Youth Worker magazine, Henri Nouwen pops up several times. Now as a huge fan of his, I'm not surprised that others appreciate his wisdom and grace. What does surprise me is these are not Catholics and how frequently various people brought his book, In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership, to the discussion on leadership training and spirituality.Check

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-16961298895965087942010-04-25T18:06:00.001-04:002010-04-25T18:08:16.646-04:00

I decided the old design was far too difficult to read. This one isn't perfect, but it suits me and is easier on the eyes (I think). If you have suggestions, let me know. Hopefully with a normal day off (is there such a thing?) tomorrow, I will post more on the conference. Though I do plan on spending some of the day with my sewing machine and a bit of time on the sofa with Gracie and West

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-39066750455085853692010-04-16T09:34:00.002-04:002010-04-16T09:51:03.633-04:00

My apologies to anyone expecting a next day delivery on the second installment of the 10th Youth Forum thoughts from yours truly. My week was quickly consumed with the administrative headache of determining flights to Bolivia for our summer service trip and finding enough teenagers to help with baby sitting for a special event tomorrow. Neither are nailed down, but at this moment, I cannot do

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-72029508526179953562010-04-07T08:58:00.003-04:002010-04-16T09:51:24.950-04:00

No, I'm not going to start a dissertation on the Marshall Plan. The title does sum up how I am attempting to get through the 10th Youth Forum hosted by the Pontifical Council for the Laity and Holy Week.I understand why the Council chose the week prior to Holy Week, Palm Sunday is World Youth Day. However, as a person employed in a parish, that is a rough time to be gone.Despite it all, the

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-11988139159231940742010-03-10T17:15:00.002-05:002010-03-10T17:20:47.643-05:00

While this month is the typical business of Lent - parish mission, Living Way of the Cross rehearsals, special youth groups, additional small groups - a few more things have popped up on the radar.I realized that on June 30 I will have completed 7 years here. That means this fall will be year 8. Given that I think in 4s (courtesy of the high school ministry), this carries some significance for

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-1488780699917840432010-02-18T09:53:00.002-05:002010-02-18T09:55:37.326-05:00

Young Adults "Less Religious," Not Necessarily "More Secular"This article from USA Today probably doesn't surprise any of us. It does give a few stats from a recent Pew survey you may be interested in.The timing on this article is good on my end. Saturday I give three workshops on young adult ministry training for our diocese. This is the sort of thing that is helpful for our 'who are young

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-43855259487290107582010-02-12T10:52:00.003-05:002010-02-12T11:06:15.738-05:00

Well, actually two.1. I love free stuff. Utterly love it. I also fall prey periodically to the buy this and you'll get all this free thing. But when it is just something gratis, even better.2. I love Bibles. There are so many different kinds.Guess what this post is about - yup, free Bibles.First off, while it wasn't really free, I rediscovered the Catholic Women's Study Bible. I needed

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-13886382502481141972010-02-04T10:15:00.002-05:002010-02-04T10:18:40.590-05:00

It is finally here - the official website (in English) for WYD 2011!World Youth Day 2011Madrid, SpainCan't wait to go! Our pilgrimage is going to take us to Rome & Assisi for a week before we journey to Madrid. I love taking teens and young adults to those cities. The impact that they have on young people is quite profound.On a traveling note, I will be out of town, if not the country for at

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-91741718718381741992010-01-29T13:32:00.002-05:002010-01-29T13:33:23.365-05:00

This article requires no introduction. Please read. It is a beautiful piece.The Hotel on a Hillfrom cnn.com

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-17881945149663649382010-01-24T12:38:00.002-05:002010-01-24T12:41:42.633-05:00

No, it is not some new, hip translation of the Gospels.Rather, it is the latest from Pope Benedict XVI. Check out the article from the Washington Post on "Pope to priests: Go forth and blog."Would love to comment, but this blogger has some real life work to do.

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-74591590054045920162010-01-21T13:59:00.003-05:002010-01-21T14:13:57.810-05:00

I am taking a break from the swirl of activity to let some Tylenol kick in. As happens far too often in youth ministry, there has been a tragedy and the past week has been spent working, praying, and ministering to youths that are grieving.This has led me to the fact that there are some necessary items for one of the most important things when you find yourself in the role of youth minister in a

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-43873190583633483052010-01-17T15:11:00.001-05:002010-01-17T15:12:51.364-05:00

In the coming weeks I have no doubt many of us will be looking beyond the shores of the United States.Perhaps this resource will be helpful. The map gives a visual for global statistics. Particularly for those in your ministry (or you) that may learn visually, it is very interesting and helpful.

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-16887879800515261752010-01-17T13:45:00.002-05:002010-01-17T13:50:12.777-05:00

Today is the first Sunday following the devastating earthquake in Haiti. All the U.S. Catholic Churches are being asked to take a second donation this weekend to send to CRS' efforts in Haiti.As I go through a fairly quiet day (so far) here at the church, I am constantly drawn in thought and prayer to those in Haiti.I wonder, think about going to Mass tonight, what it is like to hear Mass in the

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-47367301608878889762010-01-14T09:55:00.005-05:002010-01-14T10:19:26.931-05:00

Like many, all I wish to put forth at this time is a call to aid (and aide) for Haiti.To donate through Catholic Relief Services, just click here and you'll be taken to their donation page.Archbishop Joseph Serge Miot, 65, was killed. He was found in the rubble of the bishop's residence. The Cathedral's roof collapsed. The seminaries in Port-au-Prince are mere rubble. With a country that is

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-44880998862842146252010-01-12T17:00:00.002-05:002010-01-12T17:04:59.199-05:00

I like to have my "Jenn gets hit by a bus" (thank you C.J. Cregg for the idea) folders in my horizontal file, ready for the moment when my clumsiness catches up to me and I'm in a hospital thus missing whatever event is going on. Those file folders ideally have the next full week of ministry contained in them. This way volunteers or other staff could just grab them, find the outline, originals

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-35399878767049959752010-01-11T14:10:00.002-05:002010-01-11T14:12:23.261-05:00

...a freshman girl, new to the youth group, turns to you half way through the night and say, "You look like Alice Cullen." You pause, feel immensely flattered, and say, "Thanks."There was a slight pause when I considered was that meant as a compliment. I decided it was.

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-80208140931594949632010-01-10T13:32:00.003-05:002010-01-10T13:40:49.138-05:00

Okay, so the phrase "Keeping it real" is outdated. It is however, appropriate for today's musings.I would ask if you are always busy at work, juggling somewhere around 89 projects, and trying to find time to eat your lunch/dinner, but hey, if you're reading this, you're in ministry. I'm assuming we're all a bit swamped.Since Thanksgiving I've been trying to improve how I live. Some of this is

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-73264406131025855232010-01-05T18:23:00.002-05:002010-01-05T18:43:42.338-05:00

Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one thinks of changing himself.~Leo TolstoyI've decided to become vegetarian. Factor in my not eating or drinking any milk product and you've got a lot of fun eating at retreat houses.Making this decision, based off a variety of reasons, has made me much more aware of those around me. I believe I am now more sensitive to those who either have

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-41203143041173600852009-12-18T09:54:00.001-05:002009-12-18T09:56:36.939-05:00

Bloomberg.com has a great article on youth, the Pope, and the web. You should check it out.Pope Reaches Out to Cyber Youth With YouTube, Tupac, Podcasts

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-48948373064862492212009-12-04T11:41:00.004-05:002009-12-04T11:49:24.319-05:00

Major addition to the "Things Not To Do In Youth Ministry" list:Do not get the flu the week before NCYCFret not, it wasn't H1N1. I was no longer contagious or exceptionally gross. I was just beyond exhausted, consistently needing to blow my nose, and generally wishing for my own comfy bed each night.All illness aside, it was a fantastic experience. Were you there? I have to brag a moment

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-29346100683459519882009-11-17T13:21:00.003-05:002009-11-17T13:25:34.652-05:00

I checked in for tomorrow's flights. My kitchen table is covered with things to pack (can't actually pack them or my dog gets anxiety attacks). I have folders and lists and my travel pillow all set.And cold medicine. The frantic pace and the joy of having the school right next to my office has hit in the form a nasty cold.Cold medicine and throat drops will get me through the rough spots.

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-71598062153172383642009-11-13T07:54:00.002-05:002009-11-13T08:02:24.793-05:00

There are just a pocketful of days until NCYC when I, like many other intrepid youth ministers out there, will head to Kansas City for a relaxing three day conference with 25,000 of our quietest and most restrained youth.Right.While I could use a bit more sleep between now and then, I am very much looking forward to NCYC. It is always fascinating to find out that as bizarre as my teens are, they

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-32043342979717665692009-11-01T07:07:00.002-05:002009-11-01T07:12:57.495-05:00

Thank God to the genius(es) who arranged for Daylight Savings. This always helps me get a bit more sleep just before our Diocesan Jamboree.It is a bit after 7. I'm eating my pumpkin oatmeal in my office posting the Sunday reflections and getting ready to leave in a few minutes.This year Jamboree is a prelude to NCYC. There is a workshop for all those going to NCYC and another one just for the

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-50408938282292569122009-10-30T15:06:00.002-04:002009-10-30T15:11:37.477-04:00

It is either a sign that I truly have the perfect job or that I need to be admitted to a mental institution. As of this afternoon I will travel to service project A in Ohio for a week in July. I return on a Friday. The very next Friday I will travel with another service project to Bolivia for 11 days. I cannot wait for either of these experiences. Remind me I said that on August 11 when I'm

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-80466557571754252952009-10-22T14:01:00.002-04:002009-10-22T14:14:09.498-04:00

No matter how much you say you will never do so again, the moment inevitably comes when you realize you are about to embark on yet another trip with teens or young adults. After denial, checking your sanity, and making sure you are up to date on all your vaccines, you think you're ready. Are the people in your group?I was reading this article from CNN on Getting Your Way when you travel. It

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-8788198668932526892009-10-21T14:43:00.002-04:002009-10-21T14:53:26.133-04:00

...you may want to pay more attention.Several years ago I read an article that proposed that the influx of Hispanic Catholic would have as profound effect on American Catholicism and politics as the influx of Irish Catholics 150 or so years ago ultimately had. Thinking about all my American politics classes and the understanding of how the Irish Catholics changed American Catholicism, I nodded

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-50203452836693869532009-10-15T10:04:00.002-04:002009-10-15T10:19:11.718-04:00

In college, a roommate and I would use the words dwelling vs. wallowing to remind ourselves to keep perspective and priorities in place. Wallowing in our worry, misery, migraines, etc was bad. Dwelling in faith, hope, peace, the company of good friends, the oversized chair in the living room, etc were good. Simple, but a good catch phrase so we could support each other's faith and right

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-21970658691500411242009-10-11T15:35:00.002-04:002009-10-11T15:46:19.664-04:00

As I often do, I find most of my non-Church lessons can be drawn from the source of all wisdom, West Wing. In a particularly fine episode the staff is dealing with crazy dictators, international politics, globe trotting pizzas, Mideast Peace, and the media. Finally, C.J. realizes that while their initial goal, a UN Resolution is not going to come together to meet their deadline, they have the

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-83379286938678248712009-10-07T12:58:00.001-04:002009-10-07T12:59:55.665-04:00

Here's a post that I truly understand. Especially as it was a monumental struggle to make it in by about 9 am when I had Theology on Tap until quite late last night and the smell of leftover pizza is wafting through from the staff kitchen.Where Have You Been?

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-70995199988339767952009-09-17T10:28:00.002-04:002009-09-17T10:36:27.715-04:00

When I migrated from political science/law into ministry following graduation, I never thought those random elective courses I took would become some of the most useful. I also didn't think I'd be reading some of the same journals and books to polish up my understanding of psychology, communication, etc with such dedication.I've found thus far that some of my most useful classes from college are

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-84282828516864836512009-09-15T13:39:00.003-04:002009-09-15T13:47:00.678-04:00

Sunday was our first Sunday Night Youth Group (as opposed to our summer Wednesday nights). It was fantastic - lots of excited freshmen, some new mid & upper classmen. We had some fun with ice breakers, creating our Wall of Fame (quote board meets year book page idea), and prayer time. I'm looking forward to hitting our stride in the coming weeks. On the downside, the kids were super talkative

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-48032873968315357242009-09-10T11:07:00.004-04:002009-09-10T11:12:41.666-04:00

With the major kick-off of just about everything this Sunday, things at the parish have been hectic to say the very least. Plus I'm heading out of town (again) for about 30 hours to give a workshop at a conference.What I wanted to highlight for those in YA ministry, well it has implications for youth ministry too, is that Souls in Transition: the Religious and Spiritual Lives of Emerging Adults

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-8112203696191501672009-09-02T11:44:00.000-04:002009-09-02T11:45:05.113-04:00

I really promise that I will share more on the Guatemala trip. Especially as I had a meeting yesterday to schedule our next trip with International Samaritan.Today, though, I want to spend some time on that Washington Post article, Soul-Searching on Facebook. Religious views: _______________How do you answer that question? Those who are, like me, employed by the Church (or any faith group) can

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-43755240506885028962009-08-31T08:25:00.002-04:002009-08-31T08:28:47.175-04:00

A fascinating article showed up on the Washington Post.Soul-Searching on FacebookIt gives an interesting snapshot on a section of the young adult population and Facebook users as a whole. Of the 250 million users, approximately 150 million respond to the profile prompt Relgion:.

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-71512142064982657462009-07-29T07:35:00.002-04:002009-07-29T07:43:17.350-04:00

Today is one of my favorite feast days - the feast of St. Martha.Particularly today, I feel like Martha. There are 3 days and 20 hours until I leave on the service trip to Guatemala. This means the usual preparations for international travel. This means the added work of making sure the ministry is set to run without me for two weeks. Unsurprisingly, I woke up this morning with a nasty

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-59797245641742115792009-07-22T07:06:00.004-04:002009-07-22T07:21:19.876-04:00

There is nothing quite as charming (at least for a singleton without children) to waking up to a dog that is throwing up. Particularly when it is 5:15 am and you were hoping to stay in bed for another two hours. Once the mess was cleaned up, I admitted defeat and decided to just stay awake. I was already a bit cranky, again.I donned my favorite hat (it is a bit chilly in the mornings), hauled

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-6991060902631027962009-07-06T11:30:00.002-04:002009-07-06T11:35:08.638-04:00

Well, I got the official word that our trip is no longer to Honduras, but to Guatemala. Huge sigh of relief there. Of course it now means redoing permission slips and so forth.Just another typical day in youth ministry.Glad that the chaos of this week follows after a glorious Michigan summer weekend where I could relax. There are quite a few things on the plate - a young adult picnic, movie

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-91799119396485537732009-07-01T08:50:00.002-04:002009-07-01T08:52:50.950-04:00

By yesterday morning I knew what I had to do though I loathed to do it. Obviously we cannot venture forth to Honduras for our service trip as planned. I am waiting to hear from International Samaritan to hear what our alternative options might be. They indicated that Guatemala City may work out near or on those same travel dates.Truly never thought that a military coup in Central America would

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2019353076345636902.post-66898528213041120342009-06-30T08:35:00.002-04:002009-06-30T08:38:32.420-04:00

Those in the field are well versed in improvisation, crisis management, and usually no small amount of first aid. I think we may have finally hit the moment that is the limit of my ability to work with the situation - military coup.Yup, a military coup in the country where I am set to travel to with a group of youth and young adults for a mission trip. With just a month to go, we're carefully

Jennhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04374086548160555063noreply@blogger.com0