The Young Church

Santa Clara County 2-1-1

2007-08-09T14:26:00.000-07:00

Santa Clara County (2-1-1 SCC) is a free, non-emergency, confidential service that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, in English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Mandarin, and 140 other languages. For everyday needs and in times of crisis, 2-1-1 provides streamlined access to local community services such as food, shelter, counseling, drug and alcohol intervention, employment assistance, and so much more. It also serves as a link for individuals seeking to volunteer, provide resources, or assist during a crisis in Santa Clara County.

Angels, Demons and Exorcisms - March 25, 2007

2007-02-12T16:53:00.000-08:00

Angels, Demons, and Exorcisms
by Rev. Kevin Joyce

March 25, 2007

Scuffy Murphy's Irish Pub
187 S. Murphy Ave.,
Downtown Sunnyvale
7:00pm to 9:00pm

Theology on Tap, which are held around the country, are designed to bring together yough adults to listen to a spiritually relevant talk, discuss spiritual matters, and socialize with other yougn adults. We invite you to come and see for your self and bring a friend with you!

For more information, visit www.totsiliconvalley.com or contact Darlene Tenes.

Theology on Tap, Why Can't All Religions Get Along? - February 25, 2007

2007-02-12T16:36:00.000-08:00

Why Can't All Religions Get Along?

Apologetics or Ecumenism?

by Fr. Jose Antonio Rubio

February 25th, 2007

Scuffy Murphy's Irish Pub

187 S. Murphy Ave.,

Downtown Sunnyvale

7:00pm to 9:00pm

Theology on Tap, which are held around the country, are designed to bring together yough adults to listen to a spiritually relevant talk, discuss spiritual matters, and socialize with other yougn adults. We invite you to come and see for your self and bring a friend with you!

For more information, visit www.totsiliconvalley.com or contact Darlene Tenes.

Theology on Tap, Christian Virtues

2007-02-07T08:53:00.000-08:00

Is simple faith enough to bring us closer to God? Can we have one virtue without another? Love without Hope, Faith without Charity? Do your morals and virtues change when you are in different environments? How does this effect your relationships with others?

The young adults from Palo Alto, Mountain View, and Los Altos Parishes are hosting a Theology on Tap lecture series based on The Theological Virtues.

Love
The Five Languages of Love
by Sr. Rebecca Shinas
February 11, 2007
7:00pm to 9:00pm
La Rioja Latin Bistro
228 Castro St. Mountain View
(between Dana St. and Villa St.)

Faith
Faith: Easter and Lent
by Fr. David Mercer
February 18, 2007
7:00pm to 9:00pm
La Rioja Latin Bistro
228 Castro St. Mountain View
(between Dana St. and Villa St.)

Charity
Living Our Faith through Social Action

by Fr. Paul Fitzgerald

March 11, 2007

7:00pm to 9:00pm

La Rioja Latin Bistro

228 Castro St. Mountain View

(between Dana St. and Villa St.)

Hope

What Catholics Believe About Death

March 18, 2007

by Dr. Fred Parrella

7:00pm to 9:00pm
La Rioja Latin Bistro
228 Castro St. Mountain View
(between Dana St. and Villa St.)

For more information, visit www.totsiliconvalley.com or contact Darlene Tenes.

Vino and Vespers January 26, 2007

2007-01-09T00:58:00.000-08:00

Vino & Vespers - January 26, 2007
Vino & Vespers gives busy people of faith a place to pray simply (you don’t have to plan a thing!), eat and drink well (you don’t have to bring any food), and talk candidly about faith, church, and real life (you don’t have to prepare any lesson plans or make any handouts!).
Gather with others who love the Church, and spend an evening with three of God’s best gifts: prayer, food, and conversation. We’ll begin with Evening Prayer followed by an intimate conversation with our guest speaker about faith and daily life as we savor delicious desserts and fine wine.
Our guest speaker for this evening is Dmitry Shkolnik
Dmitry Shkolnik is an iconographer who has written over 2,000 icons, completed 16 iconostasis, and painted numerous church frescos, murals and wall ornamentations. His work is found in churches and private collections all over the United States, Canada, Central and South America, France, Australia, Japan, Russia, Greece, and online at www.ShkolnikStudio.com

Vino & Vespers are interactive evenings that feature prominent Catholics talking about how they live their faith through the real events of contemporary life in the Silicon Valley. Young adults over 21 and those very much over-21 are especially invited.

Vino & VespersFriday, January 26, 2007, 7:30 pm
Casa Maria Conference Center200 Prospect Avenue, Los Gatos, 95030$5 suggested free will donationPlease RSVP with Bernard Nemis408-983-0126 or online.
Click here for a PDF flyer that you can print.
Driving Directions to Casa Maria Conference Center from Downtown San Jose:
280 N toward San Francisco
HWY 17 S toward Santa Cruz
Exit HWY 9 (Los Gatos-Saratoga Road). Get into left lane immediately.
LEFT at the first stoplight which is University Avenue.
Take University to the end where it forms a T with Main Street. LEFT on Main Street.
Go to the first stoplight which is College Avenue and turn RIGHT (there’s a sign for “Novitiate” on the corner of College and Main).
Go one block to the top of the street and turn RIGHT at Villa Avenue (follow the signs for “Novitiate”).
Go 0.6 miles up the hill. When you see the Jesuit Novitiate and Winery on your right, turn LEFT onto Prospect Avenue.
Go 0.1 miles and turn LEFT at the sign for "Sisters of the Holy Names Main Entrance." Parking will be in the lot on your left. The Chapel entrance is in the building to your right.

Catholic Relief Services January Youth Newsletter

2007-01-08T14:24:00.000-08:00

January 2007
Volume 7, Issue 5

In this issue:
Life in the Field
Called to Action
Active Solidarity
Global Thoughts
Media Watch
Announcements
Regional News
National Migration Week Migration Resources

National attention turned to Latin America in 2006 as the focus on immigration gave rise to debate throughout the Western Hemisphere on why people are migrating in significant numbers (and not only to the United States), how our peoples and economies are interconnected and how national immigration policies, and most notably U. S. immigration policy, impact issues of human rights, national and cultural identity, economic sustainability and social participation. The Catholic Church lent its voice in legislative advocacy, through the convening of a national Encuentro for Hispanic youth and young adults, and in continued outreach to the Hispanic community. Embracing the wisdom and vision of her social tradition, the Church called for recognition that immigration exists as part of a web of human rights concerns related to the dignity of life and the political, economic, and social policies that protect or deny that dignity. On a more practical level, within the next decade, Latinos will represent the largest segment of the Catholic youth and young adult population in the United States, providing both a challenge and an opportunity for those of us working in education and youth ministry. While questions arise regarding the availability of training, resources, ministry models and processes — and perhaps our willingness to seek these out, this moment carries much hope if our choice is to welcome and foster the dignity, faith, cultural identity, and giftedness of all peoples within our Church and our nation.
This issue of Going Global with Youth encourages you to enter into the story of Latin America — a region of our world that is rich in culture, faith and witness to the gospel message, and into the life of the migrant, his reality and her struggle for a better life. While the nations of Colombia and Haiti are highlighted, you are encouraged to review the work of CRS throughout Latin America in order to get a more complete picture of the struggles, life and connectedness shared by Latinos. Additionally, you are invited to learn more about CRS' migration strategy as a starting point for understanding migration within the broader context of globalization, economic policies, and human rights. Links to resources that foster the awareness and skills needed for those of us in education and youth ministry are also provided. You may also consider reading David Badillo's new book, Latinos and the New Immigrant Church for an interesting overview of the history of Latino Catholicism in the United States.
This is a pivotal moment in our nation's history and in our Church. The theme of the 2007 National Migration Week (January 7-13), "Welcoming Christ in the Stranger," brings us to the heart of Jesus' message: "Whatever you did for one of these least brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." This is a moment that calls for a unity of purpose, a unity of struggle with a clear vision of a better life for all people. Perhaps the starting point is a vision of solidarity through which each person creates a life where the dignity and well-being of all individuals, families, communities, and cultures are respected, even treasured, as sacred. Upholding such a vision could lead us to identifying the threads of unity that exist within all of our stories, struggles, joys and hopes. May this be our prayer this new year.
LIFE IN THE FIELD
In Solidarity with Colombia: In June 2000, CRS initiated a comprehensive program in its response to the humanitarian crises in Colombia: In Solidarity with Colombia. Over the past six years, CRS has worked with numerous partners in humanitarian relief, peace initiatives, and education within Colombia and the surrounding region, and combined these efforts with advocacy and awareness-raising in the United States. The work of CRS in Colombia provides valuable insight into the issues and response needed in this volatile region. Additional resources include virtual tours, information on a Jesuit Mobile School for Peace , and prayer and action resources for education, developed for a Fall 2006 Day of Prayer and Action but easily adaptable for use at any time of the year. Additional educational resources on Colombia can be accessed through the following links:
United States Conference of Catholic Bishops
The Catholic Peacebuilding Network
Children's Peace Movement of Colombia
Peace in Colombia
CRS: Offering Hope in Haiti: Among the poorest and most vulnerable in the Western Hemisphere are the people of Haiti, a country in need of long-term economic development. Through its commitment to varied projects and partners in Haiti, CRS has worked to foster sustainable development, provide support for people living with HIV and AIDS and social assistance for the most vulnerable, and help create much-needed stability throughout the country, all reflected in stories on the CRS website. Additionally, CRS encourages you to thank members of Congress who passed legislation that contained the Haiti Hemispheric Opportunity through Partnership Encouragement Act (HOPE) of 2006 just before the 109th Congress adjourned for the year. Complete information is available in the CRS Action Center. Additional information on Haiti is available through the USCCB Social Development and World Peace Office.
CALLED TO ACTION
Migration in the Light of Catholic Social Teaching: The immigration issue has remained in the forefront of the national debate, in part due to prophetic voice of the Church and to the tireless work of many. A compilation of educational resources on immigration is now available through the CRS education website and provides valuable links to resources developed by CRS and its partners.
Justice for Immigrants Campaign: Additional information and resources pertaining to the U.S. Catholic response to immigration can be obtained through the Justice for Immigrants Campaign and the USCCB National Migration Week site, or you may contact Chris West at CRS (410-951-7454).
Young Neighbors in Action: Are you looking for a service experience that will bring your youth closer to God and help them understand what it means to be Catholic in the world today? Are you tired of going on the same old service trip and are looking for something that inspires and transforms? Young Neighbors in Action is the premier Catholic service learning experience that combines meaningful service, evening program experiences that break open our Catholic social teaching, and an opportunity to meet other young people excited about learning how to change the world! Experiences are available throughout the United States, including the Gulf region, and in Mexico. Young Neighbors in Advocacy is a follow-up experience for young adults as it moves from direct service to advocating for change in the structures that cause people to live in poverty and vulnerability. Download the flier or visit the Young Neighbors in Action website for opportunities, dates and more information.
ACTIVE SOLIDARITY
Catholic Hispanic Ministry: There are numerous Catholic organizations that deepen and broaden our understanding of the needs of the U.S. Hispanic community, the issues associated with Latin America, and the opportunities and challenges that exist in our ministry to and with Hispanic Catholic youth. Valuable information, resources, and training opportunities are available through the Catholic organizations listed below:
Instituto Fe y Vida
Mexican American Cultural Center
The National Catholic Council for Hispanic Ministry
Oye Magazine
The USCCB Office of Hispanic Affairs
USCCB Border Delegation: In October 2006, a delegation of bishops and other church leaders traveled to the U.S./Mexico border to study the plight of immigrants, unaccompanied minors and human trafficking victims. Their experience and stories are recorded in a blog and serve as a valuable tool for educating young people about the realities of those crossing the border and related justice issues. Additional resources, an outline of their itinerary and photos are also posted on the delegation's website.
GLOBAL THOUGHTS
The Contributions of Hispanics to the United States of America
The following is excerpted from the Address given to the National Encuentro at Notre Dame, June 2006, by Cardinal Cardinal Oscar Andrés Rodríguez M. SDB, Archbishop of Tegucigalpa, Honduras. The complete address, The Contributions of Hispanics to the United States of America, is available on the CRS website.
I am very conscious of the difficulty of the issue of migrations. I do not want to oversimplify facts.
It seems easier, or at least more attractive on first sight, to build, administer, preach, or celebrate, than to accompany. At least, consciences are calmed in this way. But I cannot finish without making a proposal.
I am not questioning or minimizing the value of preaching or celebrating. I could not do it…But the face to face meeting, the father to son word, the Cyrenean who helps to carry the cross, the veteran who encourages others to go through the trials of the journey showing that what might seem like a mountain is only a molehill.
Therefore, what is fundamental in service is, and will be to place in the Lord, in his hands, the persons who immigrate…He is the one carrying them in the palm of his hand. The point is to look at them through God's eyes: he is the one who cares for them as the pupils of his eyes. It is to love them with the heart of the Father: he is the one who is always waiting, looking at the horizon, not making himself noted, but never neglecting his presence. We, too, can see with the eyes of God.
MEDIA WATCH
Now on DVD: THE LINE IN THE SAND: Stories from the U.S./Mexico Border: This dramatic theatre performance tells the story of migration through the eyes of 9 different characters, each one based on a real person. The DVD also includes special features such as discussion questions, suggested web links, and an interview with Erica Dahl-Bredine from the CRS Mexico country program. Use THE LINE IN THE SAND as a powerful educational tool for your school, parish, or home. Two additional educational DVDs on immigration and rooted in Catholic Social Teaching are also available: Strangers No Longer and Dying to Live: A Migrant's Story.
Movies with themes related to Latin America and Migration: The following films from recent years address justice-related themes and issues relevant to Latin America or migration within the region. As with any film, before showing it to young people, preview the film in order to determine follow-up debriefing and appropriate viewing.
The Agronomist: A documentary about Jean Dominique, an outspoken and passionate political and human rights activist in Haiti who was assassinated in 2000. The film presents powerful insight into the struggles that unfolded and contributed to the poverty and oppression in Haiti over the past four decades.
City of God: A day in the life of City of God, the name for one of the largest slums in Rio de Janeiro, is portrayed in this violent yet powerful film. The story focuses on two young boys who attempt to get out, one who chooses photography, the other through drug dealing.
Maria Full of Grace: A challenging film that tells the story of a young woman who becomes a drug "mule" in order to improve her family's life in Colombia. The film's website contains interviews and an essay written by the director of the film that sheds light on the realities depicted in the film. An online discussion guide is also available.
Romero: A powerful film that covers the last three years of the life Archbishop Oscar Romero, depicting his gradual transformation toward a man of great courage and an advocate for the poor. Additional resources about Romero are available from the authors of Oscar Romero: A Violence of Love.
The Mission: The classic film explores 17th & 18th century Spanish and Portuguese colonizing of South America and religious missionary attempts to protect indigenous people from slavery. Teaching resources and discussion guides are available for purchase online.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
Connect your students to the world! Make Social Justice real for your classes through an innovative program which is all about Global Solidarity. Offer your students opportunities to become responsible global citizens by connecting them to teen-agers in Palestine, Cambodia, India and Viet Nam. Cyber Bridges, a project sponsored by CRS, matches Catholic high school classrooms to youth overseas through the use of a secure website managed by CRS staff. Teachers are provided with an easy-to-follow curriculum which is designed to take no more than 1-2 hours per week. CRS staff offer support from Baltimore and six regional offices. Students work in small groups to engage in cross-cultural communication and work together on peacebuilding projects with their peers. Students learn from their partners about celebrations, traditions, family, education, and community, and more importantly, the issues, challenges and realities of teens around the world. If you are an educator interested in having Cyber Bridges as part of your teaching, visit the website or contact Gloria Peterson at 410-951-7412 or gpeterson@crs.org.
Operation Rice Bowl: Lent is approaching! Don't forget to place your order for Operation Rice Bowl materials. The Operation Rice Bowl materials integrate Catholic Social Teaching with the traditional themes of Lent, and introduce participants to the realities of our worldwide community. This year Operation Rice Bowl will feature the theme One Light, One Journey, One Human Family and will feature new interactive activities on our website. To order your free 2007 materials, visit our website at orb.crs.org or call 1 (800) 222-0025.
CRS Customer Relations Center: Did you know that CRS has a toll-free line you can use for general information and assistance. For all general information on programs like Fair Trade, Operation Rice Bowl, and other U.S. Operations programs for youth and education, call 1-866-608-5978.
CRS REGION NEWS
Visit the CRS Education website to obtain contact information for your regional youth program officers and for additional information about CRS resources and events in your area.
CRS Northeast:
ORB & Food Fast Training Opportunities Offered: Dennis Fisher, program officer for the CRS Northeast Regional Office, will be doing Operation Rice Bowl trainings in the dioceses of Brooklyn, NY, Albany, NY, and Springfield, MA during the month of January. If you would like an ORB training for your diocese in the northeast, please contact Dennis at 610-293-4669 x7523 or dfisher@crs.org. Additionally, if you serve as diocesan staff in youth ministry or religious education and are interested in a training or presentation on the CRS Food Fast Program, contact Dennis Fisher for more information and scheduling of dates.
With Valentine's Day not too far away, consider entering the "Raise Money Right" contest and win a trip to Ghana or other prizes. Check out the contest at http://donate.crs.org/site/R?i=G-a39r4LOvQveRdsfBSXIw.. or contact the CRS Northeast Office for more information at 610-293-4669.
CRS Southeast:
Open House: The Southeast Regional office will celebrate the opening of their new office on February 20, 2007 with a dedication ceremony and blessing by Archbishop Wilton Gregory of the Archdiocese of Atlanta. The dedication starts at 12:30 and open house at 3:30 p.m. The new address is 229 Peachtree Center, International Tower, Suite 402, Atlanta, GA 30303. For more information about the open house or any other requests for the Southeast Regional office, call 404-681-4600 or contact Linda Collins, Office Coordinator, at lcollins@crs.org.
Fair Trade Workshop: The Southeast Regional office will host a Fair Trade Workshop on February 24, 2007. Learn about the Fair Trade movement from some of the best and brightest in the field and become an advocate for Fair Trade at your parish. The event will be held at Café Campesino Fair Trade Coffee Company, 725 Spring Street, Americus, GA 31709. Accommodations are available at Koinonia Farm, 1324 GA Hwy 49 S., Americus, GA 31709. For more information contact Simone Blanchard at 404-681-4600 or sblancha@crs.org.
CRS West:
Thomas Awiapo, CRS Ghana, will be available to speak at school assemblies, liturgies, youth ministry and confirmation gatherings in Southern and Northern California as well as Las Vegas from January 15- March 1st. Thomas' personal story of "Hunger and Hope" is an inspiration and thousands of youth have been deeply touched by his story and presence. Your Lent and Operation Rice Bowl will come alive with the Spirit after hearing Thomas! If you are interested in scheduling him to speak at your church or school, please contact Elsa Arratia at 619-269-1399 or earratia@crs.org.
Sara Alexander and Paul Hicks, both from CRS Afghanistan, are available for joint class presentations or an assembly at your school! Their passion for their work and commitment to the mission of CRS and our church will be an inspiration to all students who hear them. Sara will be available in the Bay Area from January 7-15. Paul will be in the Bay Area from approximately January 22-February 10. He would also be available for groups and high schools around January 20th in Ventura and Los Angeles. The new CRS Afghanistan curriculum would be a great preparation tool prior to a visit to your school. Please contact Jeanine Boucher-Colbert, Youth Programs Officer for CRS West, 503-282-6406 or jcolbert@crs.org, if you would like to schedule either speaker.

Seasons of Service

2006-12-06T12:51:00.000-08:00

Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County
Seasons of Service (S.O.S.)

Holiday Season
November 1, 2006 - January 1, 2007

Adopt-a-Family Program
Individual Gift Program
Everyday Essentials Program
Direct Service Opportunities

To learn more about sharing your time, talent and treasure...
please contact Rubén Solorio, Parish and Community Relations Manager.
(408)325-5129 rsolorio@ccsj.org
"Changing Lives for Good"

Rubén Solorio
Parish & Community Relations ManagerCatholic Charities of Santa Clara County2625 Zanker Rd.San Jose, CA 95134Office: 408-325-5129Fax: 408-944-0275rsolorio@ccsj.org http://www.ccsj.org/

"Change Lives for Good"

Sunday Reflections from Catholic Charities

2006-12-05T12:32:00.000-08:00

Sunday Reflections and Social Ministry
Winter 2006 - 2007
For weekly bulletins, faith sharing groups, prayer at meetings, bible study, lectors,
outreach actions…anywhere the word of God calls us to act with charity and justice.

Community and Parish Partnerships Elizabeth Lilly, 408 325-5262, elilly@ccsj.org

December 3, 2006
“ I will raise up for David a just shoot; he will do what is right and just in the land.” Jeremiah 33
Catholic Charities story: A teen age victim of human trafficking was placed in a foster home in Fall 2006. Another teen refugee asked for and received an additional year to complete high school graduation requirements, so great was her determination to succeed.
Catholic Charities opportunity: Become a foster parent for an Unaccompanied Refugee Minor. For information see www.ccsj.org/services/immigration_refugee, or contact Coleen Gulbraa, 408 325-5159, coleen@ccsj.org.

December 10, 2006
“ And this is my prayer: that your love may increase ever more and more in knowledge and every kind of perception, to discern what is of value….” Philippians 1
Catholic Charities story: Teens from a gang impacted neighborhood in San Jose were able to relax and enjoy each others company on fieldtrips sponsored and supervised by staff at our Washington United Youth Center program.
Catholic Charities opportunity: Connect with youth in a safe and fun environment at the Washington United Youth Center on First Street in San Jose. Contact Tony Rodriguez, 408 938-6731, trodriguez@ccsj.org.

December 17, 2006
“Whoever has two cloaks should share with the person who has none
And the one who has food should do likewise.” Luke 3
Catholic Charities story: Homeless for seven years, James now lives in a Charities Housing apartment. He also works part-time at the front desk of the complex and receives support from a Catholic Charities case manager.
Catholic Charities opportunity: Assist our Housing Case Managers by finding creative ways to share your gifts. Some examples are going to church or a movie together, teaching English or cooking or resume writing, donating clothes or gift cards. North county: Filipa Rios, 650 941-4219; East side: Raymond Estrada, 408 678-4477.

December 24, 2006
“Mary set out and traveled to the hill country in haste to a town of Judah where she entered the house of Zechariah and greeted Elizabeth.” Luke 1
Catholic Charities story: John can now get outside his care facility to take a “trip around the neighborhood” when his Friendly Visitor realized that being outside was what he was missing.
Catholic Charities opportunity: Visit an elderly person one hour a week, keep a record of the visits and work with our Friendly Visitor Volunteer Coordinator, Jeanette Miskimon, 408 325-5151, jmiskimon@ccsj.org.

December 25, 2006
“She wrapped him in swaddling clothes and laid him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn” Luke 2
Catholic Charities story: Sheryl, a single mother with a disability, was able to move into her own apartment when our Housing Services case manager was able to match her need with a subsidy program.
Catholic Charities opportunity: Help in our office keeping listings current, scheduling appointments, conducting a satisfaction survey. Join the Shared Housing program. Contact
Chelo Lund, 408 325-5209, clund@ccsj.org

December 31, 2006
“Jesus advanced in wisdom and age and favor before God and man.” Luke 2
Catholic Charities story: At Delia Garcia’s day care in San Jose, preschool children gain a healthy love of books through our Raising A Reader program.
Catholic Charities opportunity: Help in the preparation of books and materials, English and Spanish, visit day care centers with annual survey, or assist with workshops and training. Raising A Reader program coordinator, Mike Honey, 408 283-6150 x244, mhoney@ccsj.org

January 7, 2007
“Your sons come from afar, and your daughters in the arms of their nurses.” Isaiah 60
Catholic Charities story:. St. Lawrence parish is assisting a large refugee family from Somalia with clothing and household goods to ease their settlement in the USA .
Catholic Charities opportunity: To learn how a parish can sponsor a refugee family contact Archana Sharma, 408 325-5215, asharma@ccsj.org

January 14, 2007
“To each individual the manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit.” 1 Cor 12
Catholic Charities story: Bertha overcame depression because of a continuum of services she received as a CalWorks participant in our Behavioral Health Services and now leads a support group for participants who have suffered domestic abuse.
Catholic Charities opportunity: What is your gift? Many clients of Catholic Charities benefit from the personal attention of our volunteers. Call Rosa Chan-Astacio, 408 325-5228, rchanastacio@ccsj.org

January 21, 2007
“The Spirit of the Lord has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.” Luke 1
Catholic Charities story: Eastside Senior Center recently celebrated its 40th anniversary providing variety of programs, including a nutritious lunch and tax preparation assistance for low-income seniors in the Alum Rock area.
Catholic Charities opportunity: Assist with recreation, computer lab, escorted transportation, dances and more. Contact Milton Cadena, 408 251-0215 or mcadena@ccsj.org

January 28, 2007
“If I give away everything I own…but do not have love, I gain nothing.” 1 Cor 13
Catholic Charities story: St. Francis of Assisi parish is a site for Day Break, our program for homebound older adults whose caregiver needs a break during the day.
Catholic Charities opportunity: Provide companionship to clients helping with activities and programs, including arts and crafts, and story telling. Frances Kiernan, 408 270-4900, fkiernan@ccsj.org

November "06 Newsletter

2006-12-03T15:14:00.000-08:00

The Young Church Newsletter
Diocese of San JoseNovember 2006
My prayer is that you are having a happy Thanksgiving weekend with friends and family. I hope you will find something useful to use in this update. This just in!!! Basketball game between priests and seminarians--details below!!!~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
in this issue
Diocesan Youth Retreat at Tahoe
What is RENEW-Theology on Tap?
Youth Summit at the FF Conference
ToT and the Local Scene~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Bishop Youth Council
The next meeting with the Bishop and the Youth Council is Thursday December 7. The Youth Council met last month to discuss the informal survey that they sent out in September. There was less than a 40% return of the survey from the parishes, which makes it difficult to interpret the data received into meaningful information. Could each parish check the list below and make sure that the contact person and information is correct?Please call or email me to update or correct any error on the contact list. I am deeply grateful to Annalora Calin-Campus Ministry at Presentation High School, and Terry Cotting-Mogan, Religion Coordinator at Holy Family Parish School, who have volunteered their time this past year in the development of this council. Thank you for your support!
The list... - http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=9yesi9bab.0.0.mc9tzvbab.0&ts=S0209&p=http%3A%2F%2Fsitekreator.com%2Fdsjtyc%2Fbishop_youth_council.html

Diocesan Youth Retreat at Tahoe
We have hired Michelle Adams to coordinate Tahoe 2007. Michelle has a lot of experience in youth ministry, WYD pilgrimages, NCYC, the Tahoe retreat and has completed the National Certificate in Youth Ministry. She currently coordinates the Confirmation process at St. Mary's in Gilroy.More pics of past Tahoes...
- http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=9yesi9bab.0.0.mc9tzvbab.0&ts=S0209&p=http%3A%2F%2Fdsjtr.blogspot.com

What is RENEW-Theology on Tap?In the U.S. the theology on Tap program has become synonomous with ministry to young adults. Begun in Cicago in 1981, TOT provides a casual forum where young adults, ages 18-39, single and married, gather in parish halls or restaurants for "straight talk, hard facts, and real answers.Read on...
- http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=9yesi9bab.0.0.mc9tzvbab.0&ts=S0209&p=http%3A%2F%2Fsitekreator.com%2Fdsjtyc%2FYA_articles.html

Youth Summit at the FF Conference
The Youth Summit was a great success for those parishes who were able to participate. Michael Thiesen, Director of Membership Services has worked with Patrick Mooney, Megan Prior Lorentz and myself to develop the process for the summit and also facilitated the summit for the day. We were happy...
(http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=9yesi9bab.0.0.mc9tzvbab.0&ts=S0209&p=http%3A%2F%2Fsitekreator.com%2Fdsjtyc%2Fyouth_articles.html)
Top 10 youth wish list... - http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=9yesi9bab.0.0.mc9tzvbab.0&ts=S0209&p=http%3A%2F%2Fdsjymh.blogspot.com

ToT and the Local SceneDeanery 2 has made the decision to support the Young Adult leadership group in their request to bring the TOT-RENEW process to their area...Read on...
- http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=9yesi9bab.0.0.mc9tzvbab.0&ts=S0209&p=http%3A%2F%2Ftotrenew.blogspot.com

Basketball Game DSJ Priests vs. DSJ SeminariansFebruary 2, 2006Mitty High School @ 7 pmDonation adults $10 child $5Learn More - http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?t=9yesi9bab.0.0.mc9tzvbab.0&ts=S0209&p=http%3A%2F%2Fdsjyah.blogspot.com

:: scott@dsj.org
:: http://sitekreator.com/dsjtyc/:: 408-983-0135

Diocese of San Jose 900 Lafayette St. 301 Santa Clara CA 95050

Advent Morning of Prayer - November 30

2006-10-31T11:34:00.000-08:00

We invite you to join us for the annual Advent Morning of Prayer on Thursday November 30th at Villa Holy Names in Los Gatos.

We are blessed with Janet Perucca-Kleinhofer's facilitation of the morning of prayer.

For more information, please click here.
Online registration is available at http://www.dsj.org/dsj/buildform.asp?id=31

Something from the Ministry of Evangelization, Justice and Peace...

2006-10-19T14:25:00.000-07:00

Order Advent 2006: Celebrating the light of the World (Publication No. 5-783; packs of 25 for $5.00/pack) through USCCB Publishing (1-800-235-8722, www.usccbpublishing.org). The new tri-fold design can be laid out on a table in a way that draws small groups together for reflection and discussion. It is designed for families, individuals or small groups to take daily steps on the path of prayer and action from the first Sunday of Advent on December 3 to Christmas day and into the new year, including January – Poverty in America Awareness Month. This year, the resource includes a separate insert with supplemental information about CCHD and suggestions for gift-giving that supports just causes through CCHD economic development projects. Users will find tips for using the resource and the traditional Advent wreath blessing. Order by October 31st to ensure availability.

CCHD’s Virtual Advent Calendar is updated with text from the 2006 print resource. You can “open” the doors each day to find action ideas, web resources, and poverty stats that can help individuals and groups exercise their faith. Use this animated online tool to work with poor and low-income people in the U.S. and

Please click on Catholic Relief Services to see the flyer and click here for CRS youth ministry resources!

Catechesis---> the foundation of authentic discipleship--how do we do this well????

2006-09-22T10:52:00.000-07:00

D. Scott Miller is the Coordinator for Adolescent Faith Formation Division of Youth and Young Adult Ministry Archdiocese of Baltimore. Scott re-joined the DYYAM staff in June 2005. His responsibilities include the areas of adolescent catechesis and confirmation.

Check out D. Scott Miller's website and his powerpoint presentations...

Great Resources from the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry!
At the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry's Annual Membership Meeting, a team of leaders presented on the National Directory for Catechesis and Adolescent Catechesis. Click here to see more...

Reources for Youth Catechesis from NFCYM
The following post is from the NFCYM Bulletin Connected--resources for Youth Catechesis.

What is Catechesis?
Life becomes most meaningful even, adventure-some when we have opportunities to gather in reflection, those encounters in our lives which have deeply impacted us or changed us...

Tilling the Soil for Youth Catechesis--Must Do's to get at the hearts of our youth!!!!
Pizza is Good-But Let's Give Our Young People What They Really Want:
Catechesis for Young People.

Youth Summit

2006-09-22T10:12:00.000-07:00

Dear Minister to the Young Church,

Hello and greetings to you and the work you are doing with the Young Church. We are writing to invite you and ask for your participation in our upcoming Bay Area Youth Summit. The summit will be held in the Santa Clara Convention Center on November 10, 2006 from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. It is co-sponsored by the (Arch) Dioceses of Monterey, San Jose, and San Francisco. The focus of the Youth Summit has three parts: Leadership, Vocation, and Partnership in Ministry.

The success of the summit is based in part by your willingness to share in the larger vision of what we are hoping to do. Attached you will find a youth ministry session "ready to go" for the youth of your parish community. We ask that you engage with the young people of your parish using the various activities provided for you. Following the session you are then invited to forward the results to your Diocesan Director by October 2nd. The Youth Summit is a grass roots experience; the direction of the summit and its events are generated from the responses of the youth that are sent forward. Please fill out the registration form as soon as possible if you plan to attend the event. Each diocese is limited to 40 representatives, which includes both youth and adults spaces are available on a first-come first-serve basis. The cost is $30 per person, which includes registration, dinner, and a concert with F.O.J. (Friends of Jesus) and Lytehouse.

The summit results will help guide the participants the young people we serve in building the Kingdom through leadership, expanding perspective on vocation, and partnering together youth and adults in ministry. We thank you for your participation in the process and hope you enjoy the session attached.

Peace and Good,

Patrick Mooney (Diocese of Monterey)
Anelita Reyes Archdiocese of San Francisco)
Sandy Scott (Diocese of San Jose)

Soul Searching: the Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teens

2006-09-22T09:37:00.000-07:00

We already know this in our hearts....

The following is taken from Soul Searching: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers. Christian Smith with Melinda Lundquist Denton. (New York: Oxford University Press, 2005) p. 210

Parish and Diocesan Institutional Commitment and Infrastructure

Another likely explanation for the comparatively lower levels of Catholic teen religiosity is an apparent lower level of institutional commitment and investment of the U.S. Catholic Church to and in youth ministry at the poarish and diocesan levels. Simply put, the U.S. Catholic Church appears in its institutional infrastructure to invest fewer resources into youth minisstry and education than do many other Christian traditions and denominations in the United States. Take parish-level youth groups, for example. We have already seen (in Table 14) that while between 81 and 86 percent of Prostestant teens belong to church congregations that offer youth group programs, only 67 percent of Catholic youth do. Table 14 likewise shows that about half the percentage of Catholic youth compared to Protestant youth belong to churches with full-time, paid youth ministers (21 percent Catholic compared to 37-44 percent other Christian.) This may help to explain why only 12 percent of Catholic teens attend youth group once a week or more often, compared to 23-44 percent of other Christian teens.

The impression given by these numbers is reinforced by the Church evaluations of Catholic parents of teens. According to reports presented in (table 22) Catholic parents are much less likely than other types of Christian parents to say that ministry to teenagers is a very important priority in their church congregation (47 percent compared to 56-80 percent, depending on the Prostestant tradition). Catholic parents are more likely than other types of Christian parents to say that ministry to teenagers is only a somewhat important priority in their congregations (23 percent compared to 9-14 percent). Similarly, U.S. Catholic parents of teenagers are noticeably less likely than other Christian parents to say that their church has been very or extremely supportive and helpful to them as parents in trying to raise their teens, and are more likely to say that their church has been somewhat or a little supportive of them as parents of teens (table 22). At the parish and perhaps diocesan level, therefore, the Catholic Church seems to be relatively weak when its comes to devoting attention and resources to its youth and their parents.

Effective youth ministy and the engagement of teenagers in vibrant lives of faith cannot be manufactured through simple organizational programs. At the same time, churches are social organizations. It is difficult for them to mobilize for successful youth ministry and the Christian education of teens when those are not institutional priorities of dioceses, and parishes providing the kind of attention, budgets, training, personnel, publications and other infrastructure supports needed.*

*Notes p. 327 #11

Anecdotal evidence suggests that a number of Catholic dioceses have closed down their youth mnistry offices in recent years due to financial constraints, likely resulting from a weak economy and perhaps priest abuse payouts. At least some frustrated Catholic youth ministry workers with whom we have communicated interpret this as a sign of the relatively low priority of youth ministry in some sectors of the Church, and that youth ministry is often seen as a luxury, not a necessity.

Is Our Passion Showing?

2006-09-20T13:08:00.000-07:00

It is Wednesday, the week before Passion week - the week we reflect on Jesus' last days -- Jesus' passion. This has always been my frame of mind as we enter into Holy Week with Palm Sunday: trying to be with Jesus in his passion. But the connotation this word brings to my mind has been changing these past weeks as I reflect on this word from another perspective--my own. This is a different departure for me into Holy Week, but as a disciple of Jesus I have to ask myself, "do I walk the walk with Jesus? And if I do, then where is my passion?"

I have been in the process of meeting with pastors, priests, Coordinators of Youth Ministry and lay ecclesial ministers around the diocese, gathering information regarding youth and young adult ministry and the difficulty of susutaining these ministries on many levels.

Specific questions I have been asked lately are these:
Ø What can we do to connect young people to Church?
Ø Why don't young people come to Mass?
Ø Why don't our catholic school youth come to church?
Ø Why don't our young people know about their even when they are confirmed?
Ø How do we help them understand what it means to be Catholic?
Ø Will this way of understanding youth ministry work?
Ø What could we have done differently in dreaming a vision of collaborative youth ministry?
Ø Why aren't things working?
Ø And the big question - "What is missing?"

The question I could not get out of mind was this last one - "what is missing"?

Driving home after this one particular meeting I couldn't help thinking about this question, almost in the form of a mantra-what is missing-what is missing-what is missing? The word passioncame to mind. This is because I had just read an article stating how young people are drawn to adults who have passion about work, about life, about faith, (just about anything!) We all know and understand how much young people are looking for something worthwhile to be passionate about, something worth believing in, possible only through their relationships with people like you and me. This is integral to their life journey: "Adolescence and young adulthood are also life stages when religious conversion is likely to take place."*

Passion shows!-When people have passion for something, it shows. Young people might not perceive us to be passionate about our faith- people who have fallen in love with Jesus Christ and do what he did, speaking the truth as he did, whatever the outcome. If young people do not see us with passion for our faith, then it will be difficult for them to see our faith as something to be passionate about-
So, if they stop coming to our churches, they will continue to seek out passion elsewhere, like a heat seeking missile...

- I hear that they will be handing out passion all next week at a church near you and me - it will cost us, but not in terms of money...

Jesus Christ in Love...

-So let's make an effort to think about "God Love" and go down to the church and get us some passion and fall in love with the me-and the you-and the God-
--and our young people will trip all over themselves to be with us--they will come out of the woodwork to be with us...and together we can change the world...

-Sandy Velasco Scott

* Christian Smith with Melinda Lundquist Denton, Soul Searching: the Religious and Spiritual Lives of American Teenagers. (New York: Oxford University Press, 2005) p. 4

In You Lord I have Found Peace

2006-09-20T11:54:00.000-07:00

My oldest son just received a big paycheck and treated his brothers to a "rent a video game nite" and me to a" Mom, what movie would you like to see?" I love it! He can pay for his own gas, car insurance and have money to rent a movie for me as well. I asked for the movie "Crash" as I have wanted to see it since it was first released. (Good movie, well done, people of different ethnic backgrounds literally "Crash" up against each other.. don't see it if you are feeling down....).

He and his brothers rented "Batman Begins "which was not really on my "must rent to see" list. I ended up enjoying the Batman movie more than I expected. One line in the move woke me up. (I have a bad habit of falling asleep during the slow parts.) Batman is struggling with his dual identity of his suave playboy image and the man who risks his life for others. He is embarrassed with his antics when he unexpectedly runs into his love interest ,Rachel, whom he tries to convince that this playboy person is "not the real me". She responds with simple and truthful words: "It is not who you are underneath, it is what you do, that defines you." I am impressed by the writers of this Batman movie: "What we do reflects who we really are underneath!" We can't sat that what you see me do is not the real me. Words so appropriate for the Gospel of this Sunday.

I think the situation in which Jesus is teaching his disciples is familiar to all of us if we think about it a bit. We have all experienced situations when the words, philosophy or mission of a person or group seemed in direct contrast to the actions of that person or group. We are multi-dimensionally affected and submerged in layers of these types of situations. At work, at home, in the family, in our Christian community, in politics American and global---everywhere we go we must learn to navigate and deal with situations in which what people profess and what they do are not the same. We don't have too far to go to see this dual pull within our own selves; the struggle between being and doing, and working out a right balance between the two. No small feat. ( I am a size 9 on hot days and an 8 1/2 on cold days, wish I was a 7-- much better selection--okay, that was dumb...).

I am going to throw in a random thought here that I hope I can weave into this "gospel reflection" smoothly within the next paragraph or so. Perhaps the layers of this "dysfunction", which is this imbalance between the "who" we are and the "actions" of what we do, are reflected in these situations. Is Jesus calling us to stand apart from these busy, intricate, entangling, painful layers of dysfunction that is exhibited in the pharisees' words and actions? To dig our heels in and not be a part of the problem situation? To be different? YES!!! We will all say? But how???? How do we do that????? ....Because it is hard and I am hurting!!!

Let's go to the responsorial Psalm 131---I think it is all there!!!!

In you Lord, I have found my peace...

A while ago I was greatly troubled by a situation, angry, in fact wanting to put my dukes up a bit ( a lot). But mostly I was tired of feeling pulled apart by it. So I just sank down somehow. I don't know how really. If I could give it a name I would call it "gently spiraling down" to that place where God is and who can give me love and rest.

I have stilled and quieted my soul like a weaned child...

I told this gentle God about my tiredness, my sadness, my struggle, without words but with my heart, and let myself sink into this God whom I knew I would find in the depths of me...

Like a weaned child on its mother's lap, so is my soul within me...

So this is where I go especially when I feel hurt, sad, threatened, like putting up my dukes, lonely, confused, pulled apart by painful situations ...

In you Lord, I have found my peace...and I feel stonger, more peaceful...confident that I will be changed in the process...to be more loving so that what I do comes from who I am..and that is because who I am is rooted and resting in God...

This is my journey I share with you, and it is yours too. I believe that if we did this, than who we are in God will be reflected in the world...in our families, at work, in our local communities, in ourselves...and that we can change the world...
Together we can change the world...

--Sandy Velasco Scott

A Rosary In Every Pocket

2006-09-20T09:58:00.000-07:00

"Reign of God, Reign of God, Reign of God....." Jesus' message was the Proclamation of the Good News that God was now with us in a new definitive way, as never before, in the person of Jesus Himself. We could be changed, and the world could be changed forever. Except for one thing----we have been invited not just to be changed, but to make this change happen in ways specifice to each one of us.

In the Church's work with young people (church being all of us) it is crucial that we focus on helping our young people discern and grow their gifts, because they too are called to change the world as only they can, precisely because of thier youthfulness. We often overlook our young people as not being mature enough or experienced enough, or spiritual enough to discern and use their gifts for the building up of God's Reign in this world. We are wrong when we do this and we are wrong when we do not make them a priority in our Church by walking with them on this faith journey of discipleship to Jesus Christ. Often it is not what we do, say or how we act toward "the Young Church" through which they perceive our true attitude about them, most often it is what we do not do for them, which is worse.

From the work done in the social sciences we know that there are some critical times "a window of opportunity" in the development of human beings in which people are most open to assimimilating their experience with their perception of reality. One of these times is at the very young early childhood age through about age six, and another time is the age of adolescence. As a church we have not not understood the great opportunities that can happen when young people encounter Christ in their midst. An experience such as this will impact that young person for the rest of their life. My thesis, which I am sure others have already come to understand and write about, is that if young people connect to Jesus Christ in adolescence, then they will stay connected for life through this experience. If they have not, then they will go and find some place, some people, some things, where they can feel connected to.

But what does all this jibberish have to do with the readings for this Sunday--the money entrusted to the sevants by the master...

I have never really liked this particular reading until this past Saturday when I sat down to reflect on it a bit. I had always thought it was unfair or downright mean of the master to punish the servant to whom he had given the least to. Poor guy was afraid and so as not to risk getting into trouble, he buried the money for safekeeping. How mean of the Master to take away the little the servant had been given and to be thrown out in the street where there would be wailing and grinding of teeth.(OUCH!) But this is what I started to reflect about...

As mentors and adults, and as the Batpized, we have a double duty to mentor and hand on our faith to the generations coming after us, to help not only ourselves but our young people in discerning and growing their gifts for the building up of God's Reign in our hearts and in the world.

What are our gifts? What do we (each of us) LOVE to do? How can we use our giftedness for the building of of God's Reign today, for that is why we have been given these gifts? How can we mentor others in discipleship?

So now I understand that the Master was angry because the servant had done nothing for himself or for anyone else. He wasted the gift God had given him. So let us be people proud to know what God has done for us and using what God has done for the building up of God's Reign in our hearts, for others and for the world...as never before until God entered into human history through Jesus Christ. So we have no excuses, especially YOU, if you are reading this "reflection"(or me as I am the one writing it). No excuses!

Blessed are you who fear the Lord, who walk in his ways!

As a young girl, my mother shared her faith with me in many ways. Church every Sunday (and donuts after, if we weren't late); she would sit me on her lap and talk to me about God and Jesus; she would give me coins and help me light one of the candles in front of the big statue of Mary. So I learned to be in "awe" of God and everything that had to do with "church".

For you shall eat of your handiwork; blessed shall you be and favored.

My mother had a rosary in the pocket of every sweater she owned, and a few in several of her aprons. After she passed, I found three more rosaries in long forgotten sweaters way in the back of her closet. As a young girl, I would come into the family room where she would be sitting in her chair, gazing out the window, with a rosary in one hand and her worn, taped together blue novena book in the other.

Blessed are you who fear the Lord.

She made a shrine (well she designed it and my Dad built it) to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and The Virgin Mary out of the hall closet. It became "part of the woodwork" of the house--we all just took it for granted. So it was amusing to see our friend's reactions to it when they first came over. And then they got used to it, too. My Dad still lives in that house, and that shrine is exactly the same as it was when he and my Mom first built it, over 40 years ago.

Your wife shall be like a fruitful vine in the recesses of your home.

When I was in college, a good friend of mine took me aside and told me that she just could not see me as a businesswoman. She asked what I most wanted to study? She knew what I would answer. I told her that I really wanted to study theology--God stuff.... She asked me another question which I had to think about. What is your gift? The only thing I could think of was "faith", the greatest gift I had been given was the gift of faith. She didn't wait for me to answer, she just told me straight out that "there is a university down the road that teaches this stuff. I dare you to go over there, fill out an application and send it in. And don't forget to file some forms for financial aid!" And then she was in her car and driving away. She was crazy--that was a tough school to get into... but I decided to take a chance and took her up on her dare. Two weeks after I had sent off all the forms I received a fat envelope in the mail from Santa Clara University....I WAS IN!!!!

To make a very long story short....i just received my masters degree in June, (worked my ____ off) in Pastoral Ministry from Santa Clara University!

Your children like olive plants around your table.

And this is the meaning of the story of the talents...gifts each one of us has been given to proclaim, promote, and bring about God's Reign of JUSTICE here and now. The servant who buried the money he had, did not use what he had been given and had nothing to show for it. Yet, the servant who had been given the most had much to show and was given even more. This can really happen--I know it can because this has happened to me. I am amazed at the gifts Ihave received all because I took a bit if a risk (risk of rejection) to go to a university to study what I most loved. I am amazed at the place I am in Church ministry working for what I most love. Even the slightest "Yes" reponse will bring us great treasure, the kind of treasure that will fill us up, give us peace and the most real experience of being loved. I know this---because it has happen to me--and it can can happen to every person!!!!

Behold, thus is the woman blessed who fears the Lord!
Blessed are you who fear the Lord and walk in his ways.

--Sandy Velasco Scott

Deus Caritas Est

2006-09-20T09:37:00.000-07:00

Diana Macalintal has the following small group discussion resource for "Deus Caritas Est." on her blog. Go to Diana's Blog to see this resource.

Recommended websites for more information from Wendy Scherbart:
Encyclical Letter "Deus Caritas Est"
ENCYCLICAL LETTER DEUS CARITAS EST OF THE SUPREME PONTIFF BENEDICT XVI ... of this vision is presented by Pope Gregory the Great in his Pastoral Rule. ...www.vatican.va/.../benedict_xvi/encyclicals/documents/hf_ben-xvi_enc_20051225_deus-caritas-est_en.html - 105k

[PDF] ENCYCLICAL LETTER DEUS CARITAS EST OF THE SUPREME PONTIFF BENEDICT ...
File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat - View as HTMLENCYCLICAL LETTER. DEUS CARITAS EST. OF THE SUPREME PONTIFF. BENEDICT XVI. TO THE BISHOPS. PRIESTS AND DEACONS. MEN AND WOMEN RELIGIOUS ...www.usccb.org/pope/CARITAS-06-eng.pdf

Zenit News Agency - The World Seen From Rome
The theology found in Benedict XVI's encyclical "Deus Caritas Est" draws on and ... has the Pope incorporated into his first encyclical, "Deus Caritas Est"? ...www.zenit.org/english/visualizza.phtml?sid=84557 - 14k

Diocese of Bridgeport
In his first encyclical, Deus Caritas Est (God is love), Pope Benedict XVI invites us to reflect on the truth which is the foundation of our faith: the God ...www.bridgeportdiocese.com/story_Encyclical.shtml - 30k

God Is Love (Deus Caritas Est)
God Is Love (Deus Caritas Est). Author: Pope Benedict XVI ... With his first encyclical, Pope Benedict XVI hopes to overturn that perception and describe ...www.usccbpublishing.org/productdetails.cfm?sku=5-758 - 49k

Social Justice Book List

2006-09-12T16:31:00.000-07:00

Provided by Sean Lansing from the Center for Ministry Development

Sean is the Director of the Young Neighbors Program and on staff at CMD, teaching social justice for the national certificate program in youth ministry.

Documents
* Everyday Christianity: To Hunger and Thirst for Justice
* Economic Justice for All
* A Place at the Table
* Sharing Catholic Social Teaching: Challenges and Directions (every youth minister should read this)

Books on Catholic Social Teaching
* A Concise Guide to Catholic Social Teaching by Kevin McKenna; Ave Maria Press, 2002; (A good starter, describes the seven themes of CST and references documents, also very readable)
* Responses to 101 Questions on Catholic Social Teaching by Kenneth R. Himes, OFM;Paulist Press, 2001; (Another good starter, it is formatted question adn answer so can be awkward to use for reference, but it is a nice book. Kenneth Himes and his brother Michael are very well written in the CST field)
* Living Justice: Catholic Social Teaching in Action by Thomas Massaro, SJ

Other Good Resources:
* Netowrk Lobby - our cst lobby group in washington
* The Hunger Site
* Sojourners Magazine website. Sojourners is an ecumencial justice group, their magazine is great!
* Justice for Immigrants
* Jesus Before Christianity by Albert Nolan; Paulist Press; (A classic, it is a good book about Jesus and his social mission)

New Website for the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry

2006-08-08T01:44:00.000-07:00

Hello Eveyone,

We are building a new website for the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries
We feel that this site will be easier to maneuver aned manage. It is not yet complete but we are getting there. it has been fun blogging and taking pictures to send to the blog. But it is time to move to another medium, better and streamlined.For the latest news and updates please click here.

CYM Update August 2, 2006

2006-08-02T13:54:00.000-07:00

Diocese of San Jose Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries

*Info regarding the Middle East Crisis from Linda Batton’s Office
*Draft of the policy regarding chaperones for Youth Ministry Events
*NCYC—National Catholic Youth Conference
*Safe Environment Training for all YMC’s Youth Summit
*Dates to Remember

From Linda Batton’s Office:
Dear Friends and Colleagues,
Attached is the latest bulletin announcement from CRS regarding the crisis in the Middle East and a request for the U.S. leadership to achieve an immediate ceasefire, deliver humanitarian aid and to seek political solutions. Please circulate this action alert to your networks. For further information and to view the recent statements from the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and Church leaders, see http://www.usccb.org/sdwp/international/mideastind.htm#general.

In solidarity,
Linda Batton
Associate for Evangelization, Justice, & Peace
Director of Missions
email: batton@dsj.org
Read “Faith Doing Justice
++++++++++

Policies regarding Chaperones On and Off site
I am sending you a draft of the policy regarding chaperones, off and on-site, drivers, etc., for your feedback. This is based on conversations I have had with many of you. Once I hear back from you I will set this as the policy for the DSJ regarding chaperones on and off site activities.

On site (on parish grounds)
Minimum: 1 adult male and 1 adult female.
We would like to see a ratio of 1 adult to 10 youths as something to aim for. Good Youth Ministry implies that there are a good number of adults to help with all the dynamics and jobs required for a decent youth ministry night. One adult may never lead a YM group by him or herself without any other adult present. If it happens that no adults have come to help supervise, then the session is cancelled and the parents need to be called to pick up their children.

Off-site local retreats and activities:
1 adult to 8 youths
The number of girls to boys should be reflected as closely as possible to the number of women to men chaperones.
-Confirmation retreats
-other youth retreats
-day trips

Off-site retreats, conferences, outside the Bay Area:
1 adult to 6 youths
The number of girls to boys should be reflected as closely as possible to the number of women to men chaperones.
-NCYC (National Catholic Youth Conference will be in Columbus, Ohio in 2007-this ratio is set by the NFCYM and is non-negotiable),
-Tahoe Retreat, which is out of state
-LA Youth Day

Sleeping arrangements:
For overnight retreats or activities, adult men and women may not sleep in the same rooms as the youth. However in the case of a dorm style sleeping arrangements, two adults (never one adult) must stay in the same dorm as the youth. Adults and youth must be of the same gender in dorm sleeping arrangements.

Drivers: minimum age 21-preferably 25
No driver may drive alone with any one youth.
No adult may never be alone with a youth out of sight of other adults
All licenses and insurance info must be on file at the parish or entity sponsoring the retreat.

All chaperones, drivers, adults who work in ministry to youth must have fingerprint clearance before they are allowed to work with the youth.
++++++++++

NCYC—National Catholic Youth Conference
Nov 8-10 2007, Columbus, Ohio- and it is not
too early to start planning.
I would like a committee to help me plan this trip. If you are interested in serving on this committee, please email me at scott@dsj.org.
Let’s bring a delegation from the DSJ—it is an awesome event!!!
Click here à: http://www.nfcym.org/ncyc/index.htm for more info!
++++++++++

Safe Environment Training for all YMC’s
Aug 14, Aug 21, Aug 28, 6:30-8:30 pm
This training series will help you train your young people about appropriate and inappropriate behaviors and teach them that they have a voice—they have dignity!
This is especially important information for all new adult YM Leaders, volunteers or staff.

Youth Summit
We will be sending you a process for the Youth Summit that will take place on November 10.
We are asking that you do this process at one of your Youth Ministry gatherings so that we can have the information from the parishes for the Youth Summit. The themes of the summit are Vocation; Leadership, and Parish Partnership.
We are also asking that one youth rep from each parish participates in the forum. You can decide who to send and how you will choose this young person. We do ask that this youth is articulate and exhibits some leadership skills.
I apologize for any inconvenience that this may cause you in your programming. Our intent is to gather information from you and your youth that will help all of us work toward a partnership of handing on our faith to young people in concrete and intentional ways.
++++++++++

Dates to remember:
September 7
Orientation Day for all Youth Ministry Directors-Coordinators
9-3 at Santa Teresa Parish

September 16
Youth and Young Adult Day: Bridging the Gap
noon-midnight
Mass with Bishop at 5 pm
St Julie Billiart Parish

October 29
World Youth Sunday
Click here for more info: http://www.nfcym.org/resources/ymrm/index.htm

November 10-11
Faith Formation Conference:
Empowering Those in Ministry
"Rooted in Faith, Embracing our Future"
"Arraigados en la Fe, Abrazando Nuestro Futuro"
Santa Clara Convention Center

Nov 30-Dec 2
NCCYM in Las Vegas
Click here for more info: http://www.nfcym.org/nccym/index.htm

World Youth Day, Australia!

2006-07-26T10:50:00.000-07:00

'You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you;

and you will be my witnesses.' - Acts 1:8

"And now, as the living presence of the Risen Christ in our midst nourishes our faith and hope, I am pleased to announce that the next World Youth Day will take place in Sydney, Australia, in 2008. We entrust to the maternal guidance of Mary most holy, the future course of the young people of the whole world."

- His Holiness, Pope Benedict XVI, 21 August 2005

Please visit our website for World Youth Day 2008, Sydney, Australia at http://sitekreator.com/wydaustralia/index.html

St Julie parish Community builds community in San Enrique parish, Tijuana

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The teens from St Julie parish who were part of the group who came to San Enrique parish to build a house, finish a concrete flooring and grow in community with the members of San Enrique parish. This group spent three days together putting in concrete flooring in the chapel. It was grueling work hauling concrete up the hill to where the chapel is being built. They worked independently the morning of the first day but then realized that if they worked together in a chain gang, then the work would go much faster and they would expend less energy. They shared their new understanding of teamwork with us at the day's reflection time. It is an understanding born of process and experience--the truest teacher. These young people came to Tijuana as acquaintenances or strangers, and left as close friends.

These...

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....children

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live........

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......here.

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Tijuana in the morning

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For more info about this particular Immersion Experience click here

A group of our youths from St. Julie's look out over the landscape. It is dismal, dirty and dusty. The people live in makeshift shacks without safe electrical resources or appropriate plumbing. Showers consist of hoses that are brought into the bathrooms through windows. There is no garbage disposal company so the garbage is burned daily in large metal containers. Sewage backs up continually and flows out into the streets. It is not safe to step in puddles or to touch any cats or dogs.

In order to live in decent housing, families need to save $5000 to buy a parcel of land. Only after they have bought this parcel, are they able to secure a mortgage to build on the site. The houses are tiny--about 2 rooms each measuring 10 X 10. The mortgage on these are $35,000 for 30 years.

There was nothing out here in this part of Tijuana 10 years ago. Now it is a growing ramshackle collection of shacks that have grown up as people have moved away from their homes seeking work near the factories, or an opportunity "to cross". Many farmers in the central part of Mexico have had to leave their farms because they cannot grow food to sell at prices that can compete with food imported from the United States.
These people are not a threat to jobs in the United States. The reason for their need to migrate north away from their homeland is for the sake of their children, to feed, house, clothe and to provide a more secure life for them.

For more info about this particular Immersion Experience click here

She loves chocolate.!

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God's children

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...I have found joy here, in the despair...purity in the midst of dirt and dust... beauty in the eyes of the children...

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Tijuana by nite...

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...and by day

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Prayer of the faithful

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Catechesis during homily

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The children receive communion or a blessing at Mass

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Fr Jon gives us a blessing as we depart for San Enrique Parish in Tijuana

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Packing for the trip to San Enrique Parish in Tijuana

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Immersion Trips To New Orleans, TJ, San Francisco, Fort Apache

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The month of June is the Tahoe retreat month. July is fast becoming the Immersion Trip month.
The week after Tahoe, St Mary Gilroy youths traveled to TJ to build homes for a poverty stricken community;
The San Jose Chinese Catholic Community has been traveling to help build homes in TJ for several years.
Last week Val Liberty of St. Simon Parish took a group of youth to New Orleans to help with clean up, painting, plumbing and all kinds of very hard work to help the people still without homes in the area. Val's story is awe-inspiring!
This week Deacon Steve Herrera will be taking of group o high school youth to San Francisco's Tenderloin to work at St. Anthony's kitchen all week. Joan Schenck from St. Francis Cabrini will be bringing a group from their parish.
The week of July 24, Deacon Herrera will be traveling on his 3rd Immersion Trip since June to TJ with a group of Young Adults and Teens to build homes with Los Ninos ministries.
In a few hours I will be leaving with one of my sons, Paul, to join St. Julie parishioners traveling to TJ to build a home for a poor homeless family.
Tomorrow and July 24 our Youth Council will be traveling to the YouthLeader retreat as in preparation for their roles on the Bishop's Youth Council this year.

All of these experiences and the stories that emerge from them will be available for you for discussion, dialogue and information on Sept 16--the 3rd Annual Youth and Young Adult day--Bridging the Gap. It wil be a great day of celebration!!!! (Next planning meeting for the Y and YA day Committee is on July 18, 7 pm at St. Julie parish. If you would like o serve on this committee, please email Claudid Gallaher at Clgall0312@yahoo.com

DSJOYYAM Update---July 7, 2006

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Diocese of San Jose Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Update July 7 2006

Hello Colleagues in Christ!

I hope you are all getting a chance to rest up this summer.

Tahoe Update

We all made it back safe and sound from our Tahoe Trip. It was awesome and a great success.

This retreat has been building, growing, evolving for eleven years. As with all things of value—it is time to evaluate this experience with an eye to its longevity and as a model of best practice for youth ministry. This evaluation is to support this experience for the long term.

I am putting together a task force of YMC’s, priests who have been involved in Tahoe over the years, and YA’s who have worked on this retreat and experienced it as teens, to evaluate this experience in light of the Pastoral Plan and the vision of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries.

This is the plan:

Ø To bring it closer to home so that our parish leaders, pastors, parents, can see what this experience is about for the youth who participate, and the young adults who are coordinating and directing it;

Ø To address the issue of justice: Is it ok to spend $10,000 alone on transportation?

Ø To ensure that leadership development is an objective by incorporating leadership workshops into the workshop schedule, so that the issue of leadership is clearly addressed;

Ø To keep it intact and to continue with the format as it has been evolving by the directors and committees who work so hard each year to make it happen.

I hope that you will support this undertaking—the Spirit will be present wherever we gather. I am convinced that this retreat can be a catalyst in igniting youth, youth ministry, and parishes together in service to the Young Church

I hope to have the work of this task force completed by September so that we can begin the work for 2007.

National Conference for Catholic Youth Ministry Leaders---

From Andi Grandy:

Hi All,

I'm hoping that you've heard of the National conference. Think LA Congress completely focused on Youth Ministry.

This year is in Las Vegas. The dates are Nov 30-Dec 3.

Here is the link for more information.

http://www.nfcym.org/nccym/2006/index.htm Registration is $210.

I found a great deal from Expedia for flights from San Jose to Vegas (& back) plus 3 nights at a hotel 1/2 a mile away from the hotel for a total of $396. We'd leave at 1:30 on the 30th & return home at 9pm on the 3rd.

Are you interested? Val Liberty, Nancy Pointier & I are going to try to book next week. If you'd like to get on board with us please let me know by Monday, July 10th.

Thanks,

Andi

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I hope many of you have an opportunity to attend—it will be great for all YMC’s and a lotta fun!!!! ss

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Summer Teen Series

Andi Grandy, Val Liberty and Rob Manfrey from Deanery 2 are offering a great workshop for July regarding sexual abuse through the rape crisis center. I have attached the flyer for this.

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National Catholic Young Adult Ministry Association

The National Conference for Young Adult Ministry is happening right here in San Francisco, August 4-6 at the University of San Francisco-“TAKE ME AS I AM”

There will be:

Ø Liturgy with Bishops

Ø Young Adult Leadership Track

Ø Dinner and Dance

Ø National Speakers

The purpose of the conference is “connecting with Jesus, the Catholic Church, the Mission of the Church and a peer community”.

Info: www.SFYAM.ORG 415-614-5595

I hope many of you can attend!!!!!! Please pass the word to the YA’s in your community.

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New Interim Director for SJSU Catholic Campus Ministry

Kay Polintan who has been the YA Youth ministry person for five years is now the interim director for SJSU Catholic Campus Ministry. The community at SJS has been developing small Christian communities through Renew international which is closely linked with the TOT-RI Young Adult Ministry. Kay is excited that the ministry at SJS has grown this past year! Kay also serves on the YA Leadership Group and YM Advisory Board. She has been a wonderful teacher to me about campus ministry and has been a great asset to our boards.

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Theology on Tap and Renew International

We have contracted with TOT-RI to begin this ministry here in the DSJ

We have hired a young adult, Darlene Tenes, to coordinate market and publicize this to YA’s and parishes in the DSJ community. She is a marketing specialist and will be a great asset in igniting this ministry. We will be holding meetings with the People from TOT-RI for all those interested –soon! They will be conducting informational meetings for pastors, parishes and young adults who wish to host this event in their communities. More info coming soon!

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We have a DSJ YA Leadership Group

This group came together for the first time in May and will be meeting again on July 20 to set some visioning and planning for YAM 2006-2007. One of the agenda items is communication via a website with forum capabilities, identifying and networking YAM communites in the DSJ, structure of if the DSJ YA leadership group itself, meeting with Darlene Tenes--communication coordinator for the TOT-RI process.

YAM is growing here in the DSJ----we have a fairly new core team from Deanery 2---who meet monthly at St. Athanasius, and a growing YA group at St. Julie's.

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Youth and Young Adult Day—Saturday, September 16 noon-midnight---“Bridging the Gap”

Mass with Bishop McGrath at 5 pm.

Artists include:

Exodus, from Mitty High School, Lytehouse, Alex Vo and Megan Gluhan, Jon Mononongo, John Grassadonia,

Special Keynote speaker, food and vendor, an evening DANCE and much more!

The YMC’S expressed that they would like this to serve as a kick-off-- networking opportunity for YM in the DSJ.

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New YMC Orientation-July 24—10- noon St. Joseph’s conference room

If you would like to attend or if you are a pastor and would like to send someone—please RSVP me as soon as you can so that I will have enough supplies on hand.

For new and almost new YMC’s. The purpose of the orientation is to provide the following:

A history and overview of Catholic Youth Ministry in the United States;
Tools for visioning, strategic planning and how to make this manageable;
Understanding of catechesis as the heart of this ministry and how we need to do this in ways that are new, out-of-the-box, and which incorporate the
multi-dimensional lives of our youth;
Resources and experts in the field that are at your fingertips;
Information about what we are doing for YA ministry this year
Information regarding the National Conference for Catholic Youth Ministry Leaders coming up in Nov-30 Dec 2, 2006.
(I hope you will be provided with some financial support to attend this conference which will nourish you in your ministry and connect you to thousands of others who share this work with you);
The Vision of the DSJOYYAM in light of the Pastoral Plan of the DSJ: Renewing the Church;
The building of a network and support among and with yourselves in this ministry so that you always know that you are NOT alone;
Last but never least--your needs, concerns, suggestions, ideas, vision...
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Youth Council-YouthLeader

Nine of our youth council members will be attending YouthLeader Training in Lafayette this coming week. The remaining nine will attend the YouthLeader training the week of July 24. They will be commissioned Sept 16, 5 pm at Mass with Bishop McGrath- St. Julie Parish. Keep them in your prayers.

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I will be out of the office the week of July 10-15, on an Immersion Trip with St. Julie Parishioners to Tijuana. I speak about justice, I write about it and it is a big part of the vision from the DSJOYYAM. This is one way I will DO some justice in community with this group of people who are giving of their Time, Talent, and Treasure (and homey comforts) to work for others who have nothing. I am happy to be taking one of my sons with me. I have been traveling a lot this past year and it is difficult for me-- for all mothers, to be away from their children—even if they are bigger then me!!!!

Keep us in your prayers!

Blessings!

Sandy

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Sandy Velasco Scott

Associate for Youth & Young Adult Ministries

Diocese of San Jose

408-983-0135

Read: The Young Church

Save the Date!

Faith Formation Conference:

Empowering Those in Ministry

"Rooted in Faith, Embracing our Future"

"Arraigados en la Fe, Abrazando Nuestro Futuro"

November 10-11, 2006

Santa Clara Convention Center

Superman Returns-Fr. Mike's Faith and Flicks

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Spiritual Rating
1 out of 5 angles

Superman Returns
(PG-13)
This review will talk about some important points in the plot, so if you have not seen the movie, do not read any further.
One thing that I will never compromise on is the way my childhood super heroes are portrayed on the big screen, especially when it comes to morality; morality makes heroes super. The more the expectation of being a hero, the more the expectation the hero has of being morality. Superman, by definition, does not lie, he is for the American way, and when it comes to having kids, he gets married first. So, what happened to that last part? Where is the big Superman-Lois Lane wedding? We have the Superman the father, but we lack Superman the husband. If we are going to give the ultimate expression of how things should be, then this movie has to have some words about how important we keep the marriage relationship. I would have been more pleased with the movie if there was some acknowledgement that what was portrayed in this movie is at least not exactly how it is suppose to be.
I realize Superman’s indiscretions with Lois Lane is not the centerpiece of this movie, however, it is the “Kryptonite” that saps the movie of any moral force.
Yes, I am one of those people who think Christopher Reeves is the only Superman. He showed the world how one dealt with being a quadriplegic especially the fact that being paralyzed does not stop your life, and even what one can do with one’s life. I remember when he gave the keynote address at the Democratic National Convention; that was a super act of a noble person. Now that is a moral force! He was Superman on and off the screen. He was Superman because of his character. But those days are over. Very few super heroes are written both with super power and moral power. I just wish our super heroes could regain the moral high ground faster than a speeding bullet!

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Young Adult White Mountain Apache Trip

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Young Adult White Mountain Apache Trip

Several Young Adults examined Native American culture and visited ancient historical sites on the Apache, Navajo and Hopi Indian reservations in Arizona and New Mexico the week of June 11. They did volunteer work on the Apache reservation and participated and observed ancient Native American rituals, including the Apache Puberty rites, Apache sweat lodge, and attendance of a Katsina Dancing Ceremony. They also visited ancient Anasazi archaelogical sites in Chaco Canyon, New Mexico and Canyon de Shelly on the Navajo reservation. For more information and pictures of this exciting trip please click here

Here is the web address:
http://web.mac.com/immersiondsj

One last gathering at the amphitheater before we depart.

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Living Water Prayer

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Hear O Israel, the Lord is our God, the Lord is One. You shall love the Lord, your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might.

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Fr. Steve, Fr. Paul and Fr. Jon are the time machine in the Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure skit!

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The conclusion of the The Wizard program on Friday morning

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Prayer with heart, mind and body!

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LIT's (leaders-in-training) lead the youth in song before Mass

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Mass on Friday morning--young people will even do silly hand motions with their peers and with energizing music

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Megan Gluhan was a hit as she shared her gift of music with us all week long!

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Morning Staff Meeting

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Sunset Mass in the Amphitheater

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Sunset Mass

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Waiting to walk the labyrinth

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They are walking the labyrinth, silently, reverently, prayerfully...

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Labyrinth during reconciliation time

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Fr Casey and Fr. Mike Carson wait for Reconciliation to begin

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Fr. Casey catches the Spirit

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Dobbins Hall- the central hub where most of the action takes place

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On the way to morning workshops...

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Jenna and her uncle Micchael Hoffrman--Michael is the keynote and an inspiring speaker, Dad of 4, husband of 1, sibling of about a dozen!

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Fr. Steve prepares for the Staff Mass Wednesday morning

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These early birds do a morning workout with Kate

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Mmmmmmmmmmm......

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Steve Do and Meghan Schneider do a once over before going on stage.

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Jenna at mass Tuesday evening--she has done an awesome job as liturgy coordinator for the week

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It's Elvis--aka Vince Nims

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...and good night.....

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Small group time to process the day quietly -- at sundown.

Recap of Day One -- June 19 2006

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Hello Parents and Friends of Tahoe 2006 youth.
Yesterday was an exciting and exhausting day. We had a very pleasant bus trip and arrived at approximately 1:30 pm. We did several activities including an orientation game that helps the youth become familar with their surroundings.
We ate at 5:30 and then really got into the theme of the day--Unplugging. We are using the story of the Wizard of Oz to help the youth make the connection of faith life as a journey. Below are some of the pictures from the drama featuring Dorothy and three munchkins. The story is being told in a hip-hop-rap style, and it is brilliant, really really funny, and......... I am amazed at the talent and giftedness of the young adults who have taken this project on and deliver a polished, professional, and human faith message to the youth who attend this retreat.

Today we have been busy with workshops, rec time, and will elebrate Mass together at the amphitheater that overlooks the lake.
i have nor sent pictures today--i needed a little time to rest a bit. But get ready for another series of pics that will help give you a glimpse of what we do here at Tahoe.

Blessings,
Your Associate for Youth and Young Adult Ministries
Sandy Velasco Scott
Diocese of San Jose

Dorothy and the munchkins

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Dorothy enters the Land of OZ with Toto

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The girls didn't mind that I took their pic

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A camera phone can only do so much in bad lighting, when I am trying to dance!

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Hi Mom, I am having fun!

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The boys are diggin' it--(they don't know I was watching them and took this picture. Here's your proof Mom and Dad.

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A camera phone can only do much if the lighting is bad

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A camera phone can only do so much

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Father Jon Pedigo leads a guided meditation

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Orientation at the Amphitheater

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Good music--and the bodies move!!

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Kate Schneider--Tahoee Coordinator 2006--energizes the group

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We forgot a few things!!!!

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James & malcom say hi!

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Are we there yet?

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Bus captain andy

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All on board!

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