How to assist at-risk teenagers

What happens if a teenager comes to her youth minister with concerns that a friend is "cutting?"...if a group of Confirmation students brings alcohol to a retreat?...if a student is having trouble dealing with bullies?

Giving youth ministers, catechists and other adults on the "front lines" tools to identify and assist at-risk teens is the goal of a Spring Enrichment workshop by Rev. Thomas Konopka, sacramental minister at St. Clare's Church in Colonie.

Father Konopka, who is earning a master's degree in social work from The University at Albany, was stunned by some of the issues faced by the teenagers he met through an internship: drinking, drug abuse, cutting (self-mutilation), abusive relationships, gambling, bullying and sexual activity.

Church's response

"What kids are facing today is amazing," he said. "I'm a believer that the Church and youth ministry need to know about these issues and a pastoral response to them." Catechesis "isn't just about teaching doctrine; it's [also] about ministering to these kids."

Father Konopka will educate workshop participants on the difficulties facing teens, how to identify problematic issues within religion classes and youth ministry events, where to go for help, and how to deal with parents.

"I want to give them information to take home," said Father Konopka, who will provide websites, resources and handouts to participants. "There's a ton of information out there."

Comfort zone

Father Konopka believes parishes should work towards creating an environment where teens feel comfortable bringing up tricky issues.

Toward that goal, he advocates that youth leaders reach out a helping hand or listening ear to at-risk teens; provide programs that develop communication skills between teens and parents; coach teens about how to minister to their friends; and create an open and supportive community within the Church.

"The Body of Christ [includes] the substance abuser, the kid getting bullied, the adolescent girl dealing with her self-image," the priest said.

(For more information on Spring Enrichment, including a program brochure and registration form, click here.)

(4/27/06) [[In-content Ad]]