Youth of the Church are the Church of today

The youth of the Church play key roles in the Church of today and its future as "Christ-bearers" to the next generation. But first, someone must be a "Christ-bearer" for them.

As the new millennium unfurls, we should look at the issues facing youth in our parishes. Major issues such as HIV/AIDS, STDs and pregnancy have become more prominent due to the increase in teenage sexual activity. Drugs and alcohol are growing in popularity to younger and younger children. Violence has taken its toll on our schools after tragedies at schools such as Jonesboro and Columbine, and the number of "safe neighborhoods" seems to be decreasing.

The pressure of these issues, combined with such daily stresses as family, school and the search for identity that is characteristic of adolescents, is an awful lot for teenagers to deal with. Perhaps that is why the depression and suicide rates among teenagers are growing tremendously every year.

We need to take action, we have to encourage change, and we have to plant the seeds. As friends, parents, youth ministers, priests, teachers and fellow Catholics, we are being called to be "Christ-bearers" to youth. Here's how:

* GET INVOLVED: Make a point of working with youth in some way. Volunteer as a catechist, become a mentor, chaperon at youth ministry activities.

* BECOME A FRIEND: Try to become friends with at least one teenager. An intergenerational friendship allows both its members to grow and learn for each other. Take a chance and see!

* SHARE YOUR FAITH: Share your faith experiences with youth whenever you can. Teach them the lessons you've learned, and tell them about times when you've struggled.

* LISTEN: When talking to a teenager, listen to what they are saying. Learn what is important to them and what concerns them. Pay attention for any signs of distress or depression.

* BE SUPPORTIVE: Let youth know that you are there if they need you. Keep an "open door" policy for conversation. Show support for them when they need help, and make it known that you will not turn your back on them.

* SEEK HELP: If you notice that an adolescent is showing signs of depression or if they are threatening suicide, talk to someone (such as a psychologist or a pediatrician) who can tell you what to do. It is better to take action and learn you were mistaken than not to and discover you were right.

(Editor's note: The author is a sophomore at Providence College. A member of St Francis de Sales parish in Loudonville, she is a graduate of Catholic Central High School in Troy. She was also a member of the Albany Diocesan Youth Council.)

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