Easy Things That Any Parish Can Do

Invite young people to stand during or after Mass for a special blessing (could be at all Masses) similar to a blessing for Moms on Mother’s Day or catechists on Catechetical Sunday.

(could be at all Masses) Check out some example below (from the USCCB Guidebook)

NOTE: These are examples and ideas for what can be included during liturgies on this weekend. Please adjust them or create your own if you like!

"For the Church, as she prepares to celebrate young people on the Solemnity of Christ the King, that all people understand more deeply the love Christ has for the young, we pray to the Lord."

"For all those participating in the global celebration of young people on Christ the King Sunday, that the Lord move their hearts to a closer relationship with him, we pray to the Lord."

"For young people in the Church, that they may be welcomed as an integral part of the Body of Christ by all God’s faithful, we pray to the Lord."

"For youth and young adults searching for meaning, that they may discern God’s unique role for them in building up his Kingdom, we pray to the Lord."

"For young people on the margins of society, for those suffering in body and mind, and for those who are lost and alone, may they find compassion and accompaniment from the Church and her members, we pray to the Lord."

"For youth and young adults who are distant from the Church, that the upcoming universal celebration of young people may be an opportunity for renewal and connection, we pray to the Lord."

Check out the Liturgical Guide for Homily ideas from USCCB National Pastoral Guidebook for the Global Celebration of Young People. Click on the guidebook below!

"Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, to you we turn in humble prayer.

Look with favor upon all young people, bearers of hope for the Church and the world. Jesus Christ, companion of youth and young adults, bless the paths of discovery and discernment, through times of joy and experiences of hardship, with the constant love and support of your Church.

Jesus Christ, alive in the hearts of all your people, grant that we may “journey together, young and old… to nourish our enthusiasm, cause dreams to emerge, awaken prophesies and enable hope to blossom.” *

Jesus Christ, Redeemer of all humankind, open our hearts to encounter all young people, to accompany and be in community together, and as one Church, embark upon our holy mission.

Jesus Christ, in the company of the Father and the Holy Spirit, graciously hear our prayer and be with us forevermore.

Amen."

* Pope Francis, Christus Vivit, 199

Include some language and images in your bulletins/website/social media leading up to the Global Celebration of young people so that older generations are aware that this is happening in our WORLD!

Alert already-active Catholic young people of upcoming opportunities at their local church or diocese.

Invite young people who are less connected with the Church into a welcoming community of faith.

Encourage and support families with resources to engage in healthy intergenerational dialogue around this time of year.

Speak to other ministries in your parish that they may mention the celebration in their group meetings and think of ways they can support the youth ministry efforts in your parish.

Once again congratulate the 2022 St. Timothy Award Recipient after Mass or place a message and picture in your bulletin, social media, etc. Did your parish not recognize a teen with the St. Tim's award? No worries! Check out our site for more information and encourage your parish to get excited for next year's nominee!!.