ST COLUMBAN’S College, Caboolture, is on a unique mission.
It’s the first Queensland school to have incorporated youth ministry – a subject, equipping students with skills to spread their faith.
Since Term 1, a religiously-enthused bunch of Year 11s have been learning how to create their own dynamic liturgies, run reflective retreats, and communicate openly with friends about God.
Initiating the idea at St Columban’s was campus minister Liz Palmer, who witnessed youth ministry’s success at schools in Canberra before moving to Brisbane last year.
“The whole essence of the course is peer-to-peer evangelisation,” she said.
“My experience with young people is that a lot of the time they think religion isn’t cool, but youth ministry classes help change this.
“They teach the kids practical skills to deliver religion in more creative ways, which appeal to their fellow students.”
The subject’s success not only requires a keen team of class members but, also, a passionate teacher – like St Columban’s Paul Blom.
“It’s so important that students aren’t afraid of what they believe in,” he said.
“I thrive off seeing young people grow in their faith and commitment and confidence.”
One youth ministry student, Morgan Kunde, has done just this.
Since starting the subject, Morgan said her relationship with God had flourished, as had her ability to address faith issues with others.
“I have definitely built upon my connection with God,” she said.
“And, we’ve been an example for the younger grades. We’ve helped them realise it’s good to be involved in their faith.”
In September, some of St Columban’s youth ministry class will travel to Papua New Guinea, establishing relationships with youth in the Alotau Parish.
They plan to bring their New Guinean friends to Sydney for World Youth Day 2008.
