Weekend Wisdom, June 15th-16th, 2024

An Exciting Change: EDGE for Middle School Students!!!

Early adolescents find meaning in their lives by belonging to a family, group of friends, and church. They also have unique spiritual needs – a judgment-free place to be themselves, explore their faith, and get to know Jesus as their friend. As a result, we are excited to transition 6th, 7th, and 8th-grade students from the typical classroom model to a more dynamic way of reaching them using a youth ministry approach called EDGE. EDGE's unique approach to learning Catholicism allows students to connect with friends, build new relationships, engage in truthful conversations, and discover how God's word applies to their lives and relationships.

Wednesday evenings begin with students gathering as a large group for a game or activity that sets the evening tone. Following, a Core Team Member or guest speaker shares the evening's teaching. Students then break into small discussion groups led by one or two Core Team Members, where questions and interactive activities focus on how the content is relevant to their lives. To end the evening, students gather as a large group for a closing prayer experience.

Students of this age need people in their lives to help them navigate the changes, challenges, struggles, and questions they face. Core Team Members, the heart and soul of the EDGE experience, are there to ensure that all students are seen, known, and loved. Their passion for Christ and a strong desire to serve as Christian role models make the EDGE program impactful. Team Members consist of married couples, good friends, single adults, Discipleship Formation parents, young adults, and high school students, all essential to EDGE’s success. These dedicated individuals provide a sense of security and guidance for the students.

We enthusiastically invite all incoming 6th through 8th graders and potential Core Team Members to join Saints of De Pere's vision of youth ministry. Student registration is open and can be found at https://www.saintsdepere.org/formation. Volunteers interested in participating as Core Team Members should contact jeanvh@saintsdepere.org or the parish office.  

Jean VanderHeiden, Director of Discipleship Formation