
Renewing the Vision
Young adults are persons in their late teens, twenties, and thirties who represent diverse cultural, racial, ethnic, educational, vocational, social, political, and spiritual backgrounds. They are college students, workers, and professionals; they are persons in military service; they are single, married, divorced, or widowed; they are with or without children; they are newcomers in search of a better life.
The following principles are offered to guide the development of effective ministry with young adults. NOTE: This list is taken from the USCCB document, Sons and Daughters of the Light: A Pastoral Plan for Ministry with Young Adults (1996).
The U.S. bishops have identified four goals for ministry with young adults. These goals (and the objectives and strategies contained in Sons and Daughters of the Light) should guide the diocese, parish, campus, military, and organization in developing practical plans for ministry to and with young adults.
Goal One: Connecting Young Adults with Jesus Christ
To foster the personal and communal growth and education of young adults toward a relationship with Jesus Christ leading to Christian maturity.
Goal Two: Connecting Young Adults with the Church
To make contact with young adults and to invite and welcome them to participate in the life and mission of the Christian community, which proclaims Jesus Christ by preaching the Gospel.
Goal Three: Connecting Young Adults with the Mission of the Church in the World
To invite young adults, through healthy relationships, work, and studies, to embrace the mission of Christ to promote the building of the kingdom of God in the world today, thereby bringing about the transformation of society.
Goal Four: Connecting Young Adults with a Peer Community
To help young adults develop relationships with peers who share similar values and beliefs which nurture and strengthen their faith, thereby creating communities of support.