Youth Convention

Youth Convention is less than 3 months away. The planning team is finalizing the details in order to make registration materials available on September 9th at the Fall Gathering.
If you need more than 20 registration forms email Britta Folden with the number you expect by September 1st so she can be sure to order the right amount.

Details:

Theme: Break Free
November 6-7, 2010
Bellevue College
Price: $70 per person, $35 for each person over the number you sent last year. Contact Debbie Fisher or Bridget Harris to find out how many you sent last year.

Prefunc sites: TBA (if you are interested in hosting a site contact Britta at britta.folden@seattlearch.org and let her know)

Survey

If you have not yet completed your survey on the Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry please do so as soon as possible at: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/OYYAM-Survey.

This information will be included in decision making processes in the upcoming year. So please take the time to complete as much as you can.

One Week

The First week of One Week has now finished. Forks High School wrapped up Friday afternoon after a week of service at various spots around town.

Hoquim One Week begins tomorrow. Please pray for our participants as they begin their week of service on the Washington Coast.

Region Model next year

The current transition period in the Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry is making more difficult our attempts at the “regional model” of supporting youth and young adult ministry in the Archdiocese. This being the case, we are moving away from that model at this time. As we move forward, we will continue to support your efforts in youth and young adult ministry within a different structure.

If you have feedback about how we can do that, please utilize the survey that was sent out recently to do so. Thanks in advance for sharing your thoughts.

Blessings to you this summer.

Camp 4:12

In the midst of summer programming we are excited to be finalizing plans for Camp 4:12, which is just 3 weeks away. If your parish has not registered yet, remember the deadline for registration is Tuesday the 7th of July. Please be sure to get your group in by that point.
For more information visit http://leadership.seattleoyyam.org

One Week

The first One Week of Summer is just over one week away. Senior High in Forks is full to capacity and we are excited for this week of service in one of our many local communities. Thank you to Maryelyn for all her dedication to this specific site and to the program.

There are still limited available spots in many of our other sites. Please contact Britta Folden for more information about One Week in any of our other sites.

Ascend HD

Thank you to everyone who made Ascend HD so amazing. This week was a wonderful opportunity for our group and we thank every youth minister who sent youth.

We are excited for Ascend next week, and to schedule these two great leadership programs next year.

Stephen Hueffed

The Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry would like to announce that Stephen Hueffed has resigned as the Archbishop's Delegate for Youth and Young Adult Ministry. On June 17th Stephen offered his resignation and it was accepted by Archbishop Brunett.


In the past 23 years Stephen has served as a Youth Minister at Holy Cross in Tacoma and Holy Rosary in Edmonds. He then served as Director of the CHANNEL Program for several years before moving to the Chancery to serve in the Office for Parishes and Faith Communities and eventually serving as the Archbishop's Delegate for Youth and Young Adult Ministry since its re-establishment by Archbishop Brunett.


We at OYYAM are grateful for his leadership and support over his years as our Delegate. He will be missed and he and his family are in our prayers as they begin this new chapter in life.


We appreciate the prayers and support of our Youth Ministry community while we move forward in our ministries and continue our work for the Church in Western Washington.


Click here to read the Archbishop's letter

Ascend/ Ascend HD

Hi everyone,

OYYAM is pleased to announce that Ascend HD is now full. We are expecting youth from over 20 parishes and schools to join us next week at Camp Gallagher.

We are two weeks away from Ascend and a few spots still remain.

For more information or email bridget.harris@seattlearch.org

Bridget

2010-2011 Important Dates

Greetings everyone,

As many of you finalize your calendars for 2010-2011 we wanted to remind you of some important dates for 2010-2011.

Youth Ministers Fall Gathering: September 9th at the Palisades.

Youth Convention: November 6th and 7th at Bellevue College. Look for your brochures to be available at the Fall Gathering on September 9th.

Junior High Rally: March 5th at Highline Community College

Youth and Young Adult Ministers Retreat: May 31-June 2 at Far-a-way Retreat Center.

For a complete department calendar or more information about any of these programs visit http://seattleoyyam.org.

CMD Youth Ministry Studies Certificate Program 2011

Here are the dates for CMD Youth Ministry Studies Certificate Program for Year One and the first half of year two, which will take place in 2011.
March 12-13, 2011~~~Evangelization & Catechesis~~~Tom East
April 9-10, 2011~~~Prayer & Worship~~~Susan Searle
September 24-25, 2011~~~Justice & Service~~~Joan Weber
November 19-20, 2011~~~Pastoral Care~~~Sr. Carolyn Coll, RSMFor more information,OYYAM Contact: Britta Folden @ (206) 382-2010 or britta.folden@seattlearch.orgInformation from the Center for Ministry Development

2010-2011 Calendar now available

The Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry has published a large portion of our 2010-2011 Dates for regions and Archdiocese wide events.

Please visit seattleoyyam.org to view the general calendar, your region calendar, or any ministry specific calendar for information.

We are excited to offer the Fall Gathering on Thursday September 9, 2010. We will have a social with limited content the night before. And a training for those new to youth ministry or new to the Archdiocese of Seattle the day before.

The other date to save is May 31-June 2, 2011 for the next Youth and Young Adult Ministers Retreat.

Registration for Ascend extended:

The registration deadline for Ascend has been extended to this Friday June 11, 2010. Early Registration for Ascend HD has passed and there are very few spots remaining for that week, so register your parish as soon as possible.
Download Registration Forms or find out more information at http://leadership.seattleoyyam.org.

Youth and Young Adult Ministers Retreat

Today youth and young adult ministers from around the Archdiocese will begin to gather for the annual Youth and Young Adult Ministers Retreat. We are looking forward to 3 days of reflection, prayer and fellowship. Check back soon for information about next year’s youth and young adult ministers retreat.

Ascend/ Ascend HD Registration Deadline

Reminder the registration deadline for Ascend and Ascend HD is next Tuesday, June 2nd at the end of the day. If you have any questions or need additional registration forms, please contact Bridget Harris or visit http://leadership.seattleoyyam.org.

One Week Update

There are still limited spots available for One Week Junior and Senior High. Contact Britta Folden if you are interested in bringing a group to any of these dates:
Junior High in Hoquim, July 18-23
Junior High in Everett, August 8-13
Senior High in Bellingham, August 8-13
For more information about One Week please visit our website.

Marriage Prep Retreat this weekend

This weekend is the final marriage preparation retreat of the year. Next year's dates will be announced soon. Check the website, http://seattleoyyam.org. For a complete list of Young Adult Retreats and Programs.

High Ropes Course

This weekend friends, family and those who contributed to the Bradshaw High Ropes came to Camp Hamilton to take part in the blessing and dedication of this new resource.

Read more about the event at:

http://blog.thenewstribune.com/military/2010/05/13/a-challenge-for-kids-in-honor-of-fallen-soldier-from-steilacoom-lt-brian-bradshaw/

http://www.seattlearch.org/FormationAndEducation/Progress/SchoolsBradshawChallengeCourse05-20-10.htm

Certificate in Youth Ministy Studies Dates for 2010-2011

OYYAM has just confirmed our dates for the next four courses in the Center for Ministry Development’s (CMD) Certificate in Youth Ministry Studies courses. These four courses conclude year one and begin year two for participants wishing to obtain the certificate.

Mark your Calendar for:
March 12-13, 2011~~~Evangelization & Catechesis~~~Tom East
April 9-10, 2011~~~Prayer & Worship~~~Susan Searle
September 24-25, 2011~~~Justice & Service~~~Joan Weber
November 19-20, 2011~~~Pastoral Care~~~Sr. Carolyn Coll, RSM

For more information,OYYAM Contact: Britta Folden @ (206) 382-2010 or britta.folden@seattlearch.orgInformation from the Center for Ministry Development

Ascend/ Ascend HD Staff Needed

The planning team for Ascend and Ascend HD is still looking for staff interested in working one or both weeks this summer. Ascend HD, for Juniors and Seniors, is at Camp Gallagher from June 23-27 and Ascend, for Freshman and Sophomores, is July 6-10 at Camp Hamilton.
Age requirements are:
· Those leaving High School and one year out can apply to be Junior Staff at Ascend
· Individuals under 21 but further than one year out of school can apply to staff Ascend only
· All those over 21 can apply to staff Ascend or Ascend HD or Both.
Apply online!
For more information go to our website (leadership.seattleoyyam.org) or contact Bridget Harris

High Ropes Course Dedication

On Saturday May 22nd the new High Ropes Course at Camp Hamilton will be dedicated and blessed. The day begins with the blessing, celebrated by Fr. Tony Bawyn, at 10:00 AM followed by a reception at Discovery Lodge. After that the course will be open for those who would like to use it. Please RSVP to Debbie.fisher@seattlearch.org, if you plan to attend.

Youth and Young Adult Ministers Retreat

This year's youth and young adult ministers retreat is scheduled for June 1-3. The price is $50 per person and includes 2 nights stay at Far-a-way Retreat Center, a social on Tuesday night, meals on Wednesday and Breakfast on Thursday.

We will open the doors at 3:00 PM on Tuesday for time to relax, get settled in and socialize with other youth ministers. at 6:00 PM we will open the retreat in prayer and dinner followed by an optional social.

Wednesday we will have a guest presenter for the entire day so we encourage everyone to come and stay the day.

Thursday stay through brunch and leave just before noon.

For more information contact Britta Folden. To register send your $50 to YYAM Retreat, 710 9th Ave, Seattle, WA 98104

Confirmation Retreat Schedule 2010-2011

OYYAM has finalized our scheduled Confirmation Retreat Offerings for 2010-2011. Look for a parish registration form and other information at http://retreats.seattleoyyam.org. Registration deadlines are 1 month before each retreat, spots fill quickly so register your group as soon as possible.

December 10-12, 2010
January 22-23, 2011
February 4-6, 2010
February 18-20, 2011
March 11-13, 2011
March 25-27 2011
April 15-17, 2011

Young Adult Service Team

Applications have now been received for the Young Adult Service Team 2010-2011 Service Year. Tauno and Bridget are busy reviewing all the applications and scheduling interviews with potential team members.

Check back again to find who will be joining us next year and what ministries they will be working with.

Summer Leadership Retreats

Summer is rapidly approaching and OYYAM is getting geared up for our summer leadership retreats, Ascend, Ascend HD, Camp 4:12 and Summit. These retreats help teens develop the skills necessary to lead in their parishes and schools as Catholic Disciples.

Ascend HD, June 23-27th at Camp Gallagher is designed for teens entering their Junior and Senior Year. To learn more about this program or download additional registrations visit our website.

Ascend, July 6th-10th at Camp Hamilton is designed for students entering grades 9 and 10 in the fall. To learn more or download additional registrations forms visit our website.

Camp 4:12, July 26-29 at Camp Don Bosco is for students entering 7-9th grades wishing to take the first step in their skills as peer leaders and Catholic Discipleship. Find more information or download the registration form.

If you or someone at your parish is interesting in

ACCY Gathering/Commissioning - June 5th TO BE RESCHEDULED FOR FALL

The gathering and commissioning of regional ACCY to take place at the Chancery on Saturday, June 5, 2010 is not going to happen. Instead, we are going to do this in the fall. Please contact Tauno Latvala at tauno.latvala@seattlearch.org with questions or more details.

Spring Marriage Prep Retreat

We are weeks away from the Spring Marriage Preparation Retreat at Camp Hamilton. Some spots are still available so if you are looking for an opportunity to attend a pre-marriage retreat learn more at http://retreats.seattleoyyam.org

Ascend and Ascend HD

Planning Teams are finalizing details for this year’s High School Leadership Camps. We are excited for this summer and all the opportunities for youth to grow as Catholic Leaders for their parishes and schools.
Ascend HD for incoming Juniors and Seniors will take place at beautiful Camp Gallagher from June 23rd to June 27th. Spots are limited to 64 people and they are filling quickly so please register soon.
Ascend 2010 for incoming Freshmen and Sophomores is July 6th-10th 2010 at Camp Hamilton.
We are also accepting applications for staff members to apply.
The registration deadline for each of these is June 3rd. For more information visit our website at http://leadership.seattleoyyam.org/ or contact Bridget Harris at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org

One Week Update

Looking for an opportunity for your youth to serve their community this summer? Do you need a program that is local, affordable and well-established in the Seattle Archdiocese?

We are offering the ONE Week program in various towns and cities throughout the summer. Groups of Junior High or Senior High students and their leaders can experience a local community and learn about and serve the special needs in that community. The schedule is filling up quickly, so please send your registration in as soon as possible.

Junior High
July 18-23 Hoquiam
August 1-6 Forks Full
August 8-13 Everett Full
August 15-20 Seattle

Senior High
July 11-16 Forks
July 25-30 Seattle Full
August 1-6 Hoquiam
August 8-13 Bellingham

If you are at all interested in any of these weeks, please email Britta.folden@seattlearch.org to tell of your potential interest in a certain week. Those weeks with low or no interest may be cancelled, so it is important to know if you are interested. We will re-evaluate sites on May 3rd and those with low numbers may be cancelled so we can give parishes and staff appropriate notice.

OYYAM YouTube

OYYAM's YouTube channel is now up and running with the first videos, including the Convention, Rally, Ascend and Challenge Course videos for you to view. Check back on this channel regularly for videos of events and to stay connected with programs and services as the office offers them.

Subscribe to our channel at :http://www.youtube.com/user/seattleoyyam

Young Adult Service Team Applications

Today marks the deadline for Young Adult Service Team Applications for next year. We are excited to meet all the potential members and potentially have the largest team in our history. We have some really promising applications already and have completed a number of interviews, and offered a few positions. Please pray for the young adults discerning this year long commitment to serving in our Archdiocese.

Strong Catholic Families: Strong Catholic Youth

OYYAM is happy to announce that the Strong Catholic Families: Strong Catholic Youth Program is coming to Seattle. This three part in-service is facilitated by NFCYM (the same people who bring you NCYC) , and is designed to equip trainers to work with families in their parish on building strong Catholic Families. Region Reps will be soliciting field staff to assist in training families and attend this training. We will announce the dates in the next few weeks, but look for more information on the website and blog.
Learn more by contacting your region representative or reading this sample program.

Youth and Young Adult Ministers Retreat

Save the Date for the annual Youth and Young Adult Ministers Retreat on June 1-3rd at Far Away Retreat Center.

Cost is $50 per person please contact your region rep with any questions you may have.

CMD Certificate Program

Just a reminder to everyone that the CMD Certificate in Youth Ministry Studies Program is scheduled for April 24-25th in the OYYAM offices. To learn more about the program, visit http://seattleoyyam.org/?page_id=1987. If you went to class one, or are interested in starting the program contact your region rep for more information. Each region has limited scholarships available for those wishing to go.

Challenge Course Facilitators needed

OYYAM is hosting training on the new High Ropes at Camp Hamilton this Friday and Saturday. We need 2-3 people, who are looking for a way to supplement their income through weekend work. If you or someone from your parish feels called to support this leadership development program please contact Bridget at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org.

Calendaring for next year?

Calendaring for next year? Don't forget to check OYYAM's calendar for important dates such as Youth Convention, Retreat Offerings, Leadership Camp Dates, and all your gatherings. You can check just the information you want on each ministry specific calendar or get all of OYYAM's scheduled events and programs at our main department calendar.

For questions about any programs or events be sure to check the website at http://seattleoyyam.org.

Challenge Course Update

After this weekend, the new challenge course at Camp Hamilton will officially be offered to groups. Several of our staff will be out for training on this new equipment and the first 3 groups are scheduled to use the equipment in May.
The dedication of this new course is also scheduled for May 22nd. Look for more information about everything this new course offers under challenge learning at http://seattleoyyam.org. To inquire about availability for your group contact Bridget Harris at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org

Frances Farrel

It is with mixed feelings that the Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry announces that Frances Farrell has discerned leaving her position as a Director in our office. Frances accepted the position of Pastoral Assistant for Administration at St. Joseph Church in Vancouver and will begin there on April 19th.

Over the past 6 years Frances has overseen, Youth Convention, Junior High Rally, One Week, countless service trips, Young Adult Ministry including the Young Adult Conference and most recently Outdoor Ministry and Hispanic Youth and Young Adult Ministry. Prior to that she served in many other roles at the Chancery.

Although Frances will be missed at the office, we wish her well as she moves into her next ministry. Please join us in sending Frances to her new job with the prayers and support of this community.

Camp Nurses Wanted!

Come and be a nurse at one of our three summer camps in Western Washington! We are currently looking for nurses to be a part of our staff. Gain excellent experience overseeing the health and safety of campers and staff. Nurses receive a stipend as well as a free campership for up to 2 children.

Minimum Qualifications

• Licensed in Washington State as a registered nurse (or other appropriate training as approved by the camp physician)
• Experience with children and young adults desirable
• Ability to originate, update, and/or monitor health care, maintain records, and implement the health care plan
• Current CPR and First Aid certifications
• Desire to work and live in a camp community

Compensation for Nurses

• 2 camperships for your children
• $50/day
• Staff T-shirt

For more information contact Jamie Fredrickson Jamie.fredricskon@seattlearch.org 206.274.3186

Leadership Retreats Summer 2010

OYYAM is busy planning this summers Leadership Camps for youth in your parish and school. For more information about any of these programs follow the link below or email Bridget Harris at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org
Ascend HD High School Leadership Camp
Ascend HD is calling those entering 11th and 12th grades into a more defined experience of leadership. Taking what they have learned already Ascend HD asks participants to commit to servant leadership and work in leadership more directly in parishes and schools. This year Ascend HD will be held at Camp Gallagher on the Key Peninsula.
Ascend High School Leadership Camp
Ascend is designed for youth entering grades 9 and 10. This 5 day 4 night leadership camp takes place at Camp Hamilton in Monroe Washington and helps younger leaders identify and strengthen the gifts needed for servant Leadership in Catholic parishes and schools.
Camp 4:12 Junior High Leadership Experience
Camp 4:12 is a 4 day 3 night leadership experience for those entering grades 7-9 in parishes around the Archdiocese.
Summit Junior High Leadership Camp
Summit Junior High is program offered to leadership teams from Catholic Grade Schools around the Archdiocese. This is perfect for student councils and other student leaders grades 7-8.

Junior High Rally

This year we had over 860 participants in Junior High Rally, which is the largest we have seen in years. Thank you to everyone who made Rally possible.

For those of you who can't wait, or don't want to miss any information about Junior High Rally follow us on Facebook.

Junior High Rally - Record Numbers

Come to Junior High Rally to see the largest turn out we can remember at 860 registered participants. Thank you to all of those who put groups together.

Summer Camp Registration Open!

Summer Camp Registration is open for all three camps this summer. If you have youth in your parish who have never been to summer we invite you and them to come to the CYO booth at Rally to learn more about Catholic Camping.

More information and registration is available at camping.seattleoyyam.org.

Social Networking

As many of you may be noticing OYYAM’s presence on Social Networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook has been slowly increasing over the past few weeks. We have embarked on a pilot program within the Chancery to outline new policies and procedures around the use of technology in a constantly evolving environment.

Pope Benedict the XVI addresses the priests of the world on this issue in his annual World Communications Day address with the following:
“Responding adequately to this challenge amid today’s cultural shifts, to which young people are especially sensitive, necessarily involves using new communications technologies. The world of digital communication, with its almost limitless expressive capacity, makes us appreciate all the more Saint Paul’s exclamation: “Woe to me if I do not preach the Gospel” (1 Cor 9:16) The increased availability of the new technologies demands greater responsibility on the part of those called to proclaim the Word, but it also requires them to become more focused, efficient and compelling in their efforts. Priests stand at the threshold of a new era: as new technologies create deeper forms of relationship across greater distances, they are called to respond pastorally by putting the media ever more effectively at the service of the Word.” read more

We are working to answer the Pope’s challenge to put the media at the service of the World and hope to soon be able to announce a revised policy about Social Networking and social media. However, we would like to remind all of our youth ministry community that we are in a pilot program phase and ask that you remain within the existing policy until the time a new policy is communicated.

Rally - a few weeks away

Junior High Rally 2010

Dive Deep

March 6th

Highline Community College

Reminder Junior High Rally is just two and half weeks away and the first registration deadline is next Friday so be sure to send your parish/school registration in as soon as possible.

If you need your numbers for the "Whale of Deal" offer so you can offer more teens the opportunity to experiance Junior High Rally, please contact your region rep.

For more information about Rally go to http://seattleoyyam.org and click on the picture of Archbishop Brunett at Convention to go to the events page. Or use the drop down menu.

For questions about Rally email Britta Folden at britta.folden@seattlearch.org

Young Adult Lenten Retreat

We just wanted to remind everyone that the deadline for registering for the Young Adult Lenten Retreat is approaching. Because the deadline falls on a Saturday we are extending the early registration deadline to Tuesday, February 15th.

If you or a Young Adult from your parish is interested have them contact Bridget Harris to register or find more information under retreat ministry at http://seattleoyyam.org.

Debbie Fisher's Mom

I am writing today with a request for prayer. Many of you know our registrar, Debbie Fisher. She is the wonderful person on the other end of the phone who answers your questions about summer camp and helps you with all registration questions and needs for Rally, Convention, and retreats. Debbie's mother, Sheila, passed away suddenly last week. Understandably, this is a very difficult time for Debbie. She has asked for prayers from all in her OYYAM and CYO family including all of our collaborators in ministry to youth and young adults - that's you! Please join us in holding Debbie close in your thoughts and prayers at this time.

Thanks.

Peace,

Frances

Retreats this weekend

The third Confirmation Retreat of the year starts tonight as well as the first Marriage Preparation Retreat of the year.

Please keep the youth and young adult participants at both of these retreats in your prayers this weekend.

For more information about Marriage Preparation Retreats or Confirmation Retreats visit the retreat ministry section of http://seattleoyyam.org.

Ascend HD Date Change

Due to several school conflicts we have changed the dates of Ascend HD. Ascend HD will now begin one day later on June 23rd and end one day later on June 27th.
Go to the leadership development section of http://seattleoyyam.org for more information.

Planning for 2010-2011

OYYAM is busy scheduling for 2010-2011. As we get more of our calendar complete, more information will be available on the blog and website.

Dates for CMD certificate classes, the Fall Gathering and Confirmation Retreats are all available through the OYYAM calendar or the respective webpages.

Check back regularly to start planning for 2010-2011

OYYAM Closure

The OYYAM office will be closed tomorrow, January 22, 2010 for an all day staff meeting. We will return on Monday the 25th.

Junior High Rally Flyer and Leaders Packet

The Junior High Rally flyer will be back from the printer on Tuesday after 12pm and it will be mailed out (along with the Leaders Packet) on that day with a default of 30 copies per parish. If you, need more flyers, or would like to pick them up on Tuesday or Wednesday in order to have them for youth night on Wednesday night, or if you would like your region rep to bring them to you on their weekly visits please contact Britta Folden at 206.382.2010 or britta.folden@seattlearch.org on or before Tuesday at 12pm and she will hold them out of the mailing process.

Young Adult Lenten Retreat

Registration is now open for the Young Adult Lenten Retreat. This year's retreat master is Fr. Bryan Dolejsi, Priest Administrator at St. Josepeh Parish in Issaquah. Come spend a weekend with other Catholic Young Adults building community, strengthening your prayer life and preparing for Lent.

February 26-28, 2010
Camp Hamilton
Adults Ages 18-39

Registration is $60 before February 13th,

After February 13th cost is $70 per person

Cost includes lodging, food and all retreat materials.

Scholarships are available.

Contact Bridget Harris at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org or 206.274.3175 fir more information.

To register download the registration form at our website and submit it to Debbie Fisher.

High Ropes Course at Camp Hamilton

OYYAM is pleased to announce construction is complete on the new High Ropes course at Camp Hamilton. This new course will provide youth groups, sports teams, leadership teams and any other group an outstanding opportunity for growth and development.

Loook for a video of the construction process, and the finished course coming soon as well as in invitation to a come and see event and scheduling.

For more information about Challenge Learning go to our website or contact Bridget Harris at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org or 206.274.3175.

Summer Camp Registration

Summer Camp Registration is now open. For more information about CYO Summer Camp or to register go to http://camping.seattleoyyam.org.

Youth Ministry Studies program

Interested in gaining confidence in your role with youth? Do you need a way of gaining credibility, but don’t have the time for a degree?The Youth Ministry Studies program is a ministry education program for those in ministry with youth, ages 11 to 18, in both parish and school settings. It equips leaders with the knowledge, skills, practical tools and techniques needed for creative and comprehensive ministry with youth. Recognized by the Archdiocese, these programs provide a solid foundation in catechetical formation and a specialized education in ministry involving adolescent youth.The program includes eight courses. The primary aim of the program is to promote personal, spiritual and ministerial growth. Participating leaders will experience confidence, competence and credibility in their roles in youth ministry.Courses will be offered on the weekends at our office in Seattle. The first course is coming up on February 27 – 28th! Find out more about the Youth Ministry Studies program on our website here and learn more about the Center for Ministry Development here.Interested in signing up or getting more info? Contact Britta.Folden@SeattleArch.org.

CRS: Haiti Update

January 12, 2010
Emergency Brief 1; Haiti Earthquake

Situation: A 7.0 magnitude earthquake has ravaged the island nation of Haiti. The quake occurred 10 miles southwest of the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince just before 5pm EST (Haiti is also on EST). Port-au-Prince, with a population of over 2 million, has been devastated. CRS Country Representative Karel Zelenka reports that “Port-au-Prince was covered with a plume of dust from damaged buildings. We should be prepared for many thousands of dead and injured.”

The CRS offices were shaken, with some damage to the compound walls, but there were no injuries in the building. Two CRS staff members remain unaccounted for. Communication with Haiti remains very difficult.
There are also recently confirmed reports that the Archbishop of Port-au-Prince, Monsignor Joseph Serge Miot, was a victim of the quake. The Cathedral of Notre Dame in Port-au-Prince has sustained severe damage.

CRS Response:
CRS has made an initial commitment of 5 million dollars for immediate use in the relief effort. Our agency is geared up for a major emergency response to this severe disaster. CRS is mobilizing food and gearing up our emergency capacity, and deploying prepositioned emergency shelter and hygiene kits in Haiti, as well as bringing supplies in from the neighboring Dominican Republic.
From the Field:
Karel Zelenka, CRS Country Representative in Haiti: “I’ve been in earthquakes before. This was a major hit. And it was direct. Thousands must be dead.”

Prayer
God of all creation, as we weep with our family in Haiti, console us.
In this time of crisis, open our eyes to look beyond the disaster
to see Christ in our brothers and sisters in Haiti, as Christ sees us.
Be with us as we stand in solidarity with those living and working in Haiti.
Be with us in our mourning and guide our efforts to feed the hungry, shelter the homeless, comfort the grieving and stand for justice.
With your mercy, sustain us at this time as we continue to work for peace and justice.
Amen.

For our Brothers and Sisters in Haiti Affected by the Earthquake

Lord, hear our prayer.
For the Haitian people, that help comes to them quickly and comfort comes to those who hurt.
Lord, hear our prayer.
For the lost or buried, that they are found and reunited with their loved ones.
Lord, hear our prayers.
For the relief workers, that they have the tools they need, the courage and the strength to respond fully.
Lord, hear our prayers.
For the families in Haiti and in the United States who are waiting to hear from loved one, that good news comes to them.
Lord, hear our prayers.
For those whose who have perished, may their souls rest with you, oh Lord, where they will find eternal love.
Amen.

Junior High Rally 2010

DIVE DEEP!
Saturday, March 6th

Location
Highline Community College
S 240th & Pacific Hwy South
Des Moines, WA

Cost
$50 per person on or before February 22nd
$55 per person between February 22nd and March 5th
$60 per person at the door (no t-shirt)
No refund after March 1st

Special opportunity! For every youth a parish brings over the number they brought to Rally 2009, the cost is only $10 per youth! - Contact your region rep to find out how many people came from your parish last year.

Age
Participants must be in 6th through 9th grade

Meals
Meals are not included. Please bring a sack lunch/dinner or make plans to visit off-site restaurants. The on-campus college cafeteria will be open for purchase of food.

Schedule
8:30am Registration Open (in Gym)
10:00am General Session I
11:15am Workshop I
12:15pm Lunch (on your own)
1:30pm General Session II
2:45pm Workshop II
4:00pm Mass
5:30pm Dinner (on your own)
7:30pm Dance & Games
9:00pm End and Depart

New Website launches tomorrow

On January 1st OYYAM will officially launch our new website. Www.seattleoyyam.org will now take you to this new site, where you can access all information from oyyam including all our blogs and programs. Seattlearch.org will no longer have any up to date information so be sure to use seattleoyyam.org, for information from the office.

Junior High Rally

Junior High Rally is just over 2 months away.

Doors open at 8:30 on March 6th at Highline Community College.

Cost is $50 per person before February 22nd
After February 22 cost is $55 a person

Check the Rally blog and the new OYYAM website regularly for updates about rally as they become available.

OYYAM Opens Wednesday

The OYYAM offices will be re-open on Wednesday, December 30, 2009.



We hope you had a wonderful Christmas Day!

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas from OYYAM!



We wish you and your family a blessed and joyful Christmas!



The angel said to them,

“Do not be afraid;

for behold, I proclaim to you good news of great joy

that will be for all the people.

For today in the city of David

a savior has been born for you who is Christ and Lord.

And this will be a sign for you:

you will find an infant wrapped in swaddling clothes

and lying in a manger.”

And suddenly there was a multitude of the heavenly host with the angel,

praising God and saying:



“Glory to God in the highest

and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”



Luke 2:10-14

Chancery Christmas Closure

The Chancery will be closed from Dec.23-29 for the Christmas holiday.

Blessings to you, your families, parishes and communities as we begin the Christmas Season.

Young Adult Lenten Retreat

OYYAM is once again offering the popular Young Adult Lenten Retreat. This year Fr. Bryan Dolesji will facilitate the weekend at Camp Hamilton. The retreat begins at 8:00pm Friday, February 26 and ends around 1:00pm Sunday, February 28th.

Cost is $60 per person (scholarships available)

For more information please email Bridget Harris

OYYAM's New Website

In the next few weeks, OYYAM will be launching a new website and will no longer have content on the Seattle Archdiocese site. When this migration is complete we will have all our content including our blog information available through www.seattleoyyam.org. The blogs will still be up and updated regularly but will no longer house all the same content.

Summer Leadership Programs

Registration is opening soon for the summer leadership programs. The Ascend/Ascend HD Planning Team has been busy planning that experiance for all of us and registration forms will be mailed out next week. Planning for Camp 4:12 and Summit Junior High will begin soon.

For information about any of our leadership programs please go to the Leadership Programs Page or email Bridget Harris.

OYYAM Office Closure

Please note that the OYYAM offices will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday, Dec. 16-17, 2009 as we participate in our staff retreat. Please keep us in prayer in the next few days.

We will be back on Friday, Dec. 18, 2009.

Looking toward Summer Camp

Summer seems far away but for those who have experienced camping and can’t wait to get back it doesn’t seem soon enough. We are finalizing schedules and registration to open soon so check the Camping blog regularly for updates on camp programs and registration.

Everyone who has been to Camp knows the many wonderful experiences they shared with their fellow campers. This year CYO is trying to offer those experiences to even more youth throughout the summer. Read the Blog post from the Camping Staff to learn more about some of these opportunities.

Make sure to check the calendar for camp and be ready when registration opens.

Confirmation Retreat #2

The early registration deadline for Confirmation Retreat #2 has been extended to the end of thiw week, Friday December 18. This retreat is scheduled to take place January 15-17 at Camp Don Bosco in Carnation.

For more information about this Confirmation Retreat or to check the schedule for the remaining 6, please check the Confirmation Retreat Page

Advent Retreats

Advent: from the Latin adventus meaning "coming." It's that time of year when we light candles on a wreath and count down the days and weeks until Christmas. Instead of just counting, this time can be used as a way of preparing and growing spiritually.

To help with this, our Retreat Ministry Team is offering the "Turn to Me: Advent Retreat." A day-long retreat for middle school youth groups or classes that offers participants an opportunity to see what God is inviting them to. Using the example of Mary’s “yes” to the angel Gabriel, participants will explore what they’re saying yes to and what it means to turn to God.

To schedule a retreat for your middle school contact us at oyyamretreats@seattlearch.org

Applications Available: Young Adult Service Team 2010-2011

Although it feels as if the year has just begun, it is time for us to being accepting applications for the Young Adult Service Team (YAST).





YAST is a wonderful opportunity to give a year of service and gain experience in Youth and Young Adult Ministry.


To Apply, download the complete Application and Process Description: Application - YA Service Team Description of Application Process.



For more information about the team check out the YAST webpage.

2010-2011 Camp Rentals

Are you looking for retreat facilities or a camp to host training and teambuilding sessions?

Take a look at our camps and facilities.

Hurry! Camp rentals begin booking for the 2010-2011 year on December 15, 2009 and the days and weekends fill up quickly.



For more information about facility rentals please e-mail Bridget Harris.



We look forward to seeing you at camp.

The latest addition to Camp Hamilton

Construction has begun on the new Bradshaw High Ropes at Camp Hamilton. This High Ropes course replaces and expands the old and now unusable high elements at Camp Hamilton. Although right now it is just a few posts by mid-winter this high ropes course will be complete and available for groups to use year round.

For more information about the member of our community in whose honor this course is being built check out the blog post about U.S. Army 1st Lt. Brian N. Bradshaw. Check back to the Summer Camp Blog and the challenge course web page for more updates on construction and on the course itself.

To inquire about prices, possible uses for this course to help your youth or availability, please contact Bridget Harris.

Confirmation Retreat #1

The Impact Retreat Ministry Team is looking forward to our FIRST Confirmation Retreat of the year!



This retreat is designed for high school age youth who are preparing for confirmation. It serves to supplement the parish confirmation program and the content is designed to meet a variety of needs. Participants will learn more about the sacrament of Confirmation and its relationship to our call to discipleship.



For more information please see the Confirmation Retreats page or contact Bridget Harris with additional questions.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The OYYAM staff would like to wish you and your family a very blessed and joyful Thanksgiving!

OYYAM Thanksgiving Schedule

OYYAM offices will be closed for the Thanksgiving Holiday beginning at noon on Wednesday, November 25.

Normal hours will resume Monday, November 30.

We wish you all a blessed weekend.

Regional Blogs

Do you want to remember what is happening in youth and young adult ministry in your area? (or at least what's going on in your region?)

Don't forget to check out your Regional Blog! Subscribe to get those regional notes faster.

Region I (Northern Deanery and Snohomish Deanery)
Region II(North Seattle, South Seattle, South King and Eastside Deaneries)
Region III (Olympic Deanery and Pierce Deanery)
Region IV (South Sound Deanery and Southern Deanery)

EE Spots Available

Is your school looking for a faith based environmental education program for the spring or next year?

Limited spots are available for the SPRING 2010 SEASON of Environmental Education at Camp Hamilton! Also available:

Fall 2010 spots!

If your school is interested please contact Sarah Humlie, Environmental Education Director, for more information.

For more information about Environmental Education at CYO Camp Hamilton check out EE's blog.

Confirmation Retreat #1 - Dec. 4-6

Our first Confirmation Retreat of the year is quickly approaching! Planning is underway and we are looking forward to this weekend of faith, fellowship and fun.

OYYAM offers eight confirmation retreats between December and May for parishes to utalize in their confirmation preperations. For more information about confirmation retreats visit the retreat ministry blog.

If you have any questions, please contact Bridget Harris.

Welcome Britta Folden and Mary Galvez

We are pleased to welcome Britta Folden and Mary Galvez to the Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry.

Mary will serve as Regional Representative for OYYAM Region III. She will be the primary point of contact for those of you in Pierce and Olympic Deaneries.

Britta will serve the role of Coordinator of Events and Service Programming. She will be coordinating Rally, Convention and One Week.

Join us in welcoming Mary and Britta to OYYAM.

Reminder: Ascend Planning team meeting

Planning is underway for Ascend and Ascend HD. Every youth minister is invited to attend the first planning team meeting, to discern his/her involvement and find out about the vision for these two leadership camps.

The meeting will take place from 11-2 in the OYYAM living room on Monday, November 16

Please RSVP to Bridget Harris so we know how many to plan for.

Youth Rally Planning Meeting

Now that the dust has settled from Youth Convention, it's time to start preparations for JUNIOR HIGH RALLY.

Our first planning meeting is scheduled for Wednesday November 25, 2009. Contact Britta Folden, who will be coordinating Junior High Rally, with any questions or to inquire about joining the planning team.

CYO Summer Camp Schedules

It may be getting cold out, but the Outdoor Ministry Staff is already looking forward to the warmth and sunshine of the summer.


Summer camp schedules have been set. For more information on the camp schedules for Camps Don Bosco, Hamilton or Gallagher check out our Summer Camp Information page.


Join us for the journey this summer!

Youth Convention: THANK YOU!

Youth Convention was truly "LOUDER THAN BEFORE" this weekend. We would like to thank all those who made this convention such a great success. Thank you to the organizers, speakers, workshop presenters and anyone else who helped make this year's convention "LOUDER THAN BEFORE"!

Jr. High Rally Planning Team

Just when you think that after Youth Convention, OYYAM goes back into their offices and relaxes, think again!

Next up is Junior High Rally! The first planning team meeting for Rally will be after the dusts and excitement of Youth Convention have settled. So stay tuned!

If you are interested in helping plan this event or would like more information about the planning team, email Bridget at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org.

Junior High Rally - March 6, 2010.

Yotuh Convention - THIS WEEKEND!

The moment is here, the time is now!
Can you hear it? IT'S LOUDER THAN BEFORE!

Youth Convention is THIS weekend at Bellevue College, with PreFunc on Friday evening. TODAY is the registration deadline.

For more information, please contact your Youth Minister ASAP or click here.

We hope to see you there!

Youth Convention Deadlines

Remember the first registration deadline for Youth Convention is Monday. Have your group registered by Monday, October 26th for the $65 per person registration. After the 26th registration goes up to $70 per person.

Remember to check the Youth Convention Blog for regular updates as we get closer.

Marriage Preparation Retreats

We are offering two Marriage Preparation Retreats this year; one for winter and one for spring. The winter retreat will be Feb. 5-7 and the spring retreat will be May 21-23. Both retreats will offer couples preparing for the Sacrament of Marriage the opportunity to reflect on the strengths and challenges of their relationship. Contact oyyamretreats@seattlearch.org to register.

Ascend Planning Team Meeting - Nov 16

The first planning team meeting for Ascend will be November 16, in the OYYAM Living Room, from 11-2. If you are interested in helping plan these two leadership camps or would like more information about the planning team, email Bridget at bridget.harris@seattlearch.org.



Staff applications will be available at the planning meeting.

Ascend 2010: July 6-10: Camp Hamilton
Ascend HD 2010: June 22-26: Camp Gallagher

Youth Convention

The Youth Convention Brochures arrived in the main office today and with the help of the Young Adult Service Team all of them have been mailed out, except those being delivered by one of our regional staff members. If you still need more they are downloadable on the new Youth Convention Blog, which you will be able to access from the youth ministry page.

Confirmation Retreat Registration Open

Confirmation Retreats registration is now open. This year OYYAM is offering 8 retreats from December to May. Dates fill quickly so submit your registration soon.

Check the dates and download the registration form at the Retreat Ministry Blog

Youth Convention Brochure

Youth Convention Brochure is now available on the youth events blog. Check back here to see when the printer brochures are available for pick up, or email Tauno Latvala to tell him how many you want mailed to your parish.

If you live far away and want a delivery email your region rep to see if they will be heading your way in the next week and would drop by with the brochures. Find out who your region rep is under youth ministry staff contacts

Outdoor Ministries planning 2010

The outdoor ministry staff is back from a great summer and rapidly moving through the planning stages for next summer and leading some of our fall programs.
Learn more about all the Outdoor Ministry staff is working on by going to their most recent blog.

Youth Convention

Youth Convention 2009 is coming soon. Check out the Youth Ministry blog and the Events blog to keep up to date all everything going on.

Also download the leaders packet and a printable registration form by visiting the youth events blog.

Fall SEARCH Retreat '09

Registration is Open for this fall's SEARCH retreat for teens in grades 9-12. The retreat will take place at Camp Don Bosco on October 2nd - 4th. Contact oyyamretreats@seattlearch.org to register. For more information: http://youthretreats.blogspot.com/2009/09/search-retreat-2009.html

Hamilton Final Reflections

A thoughtful final message on this summer's Camp Hamilton programming from the Director, Megan Raymond, can be read HERE. Be sure to read the other posted updates in the CYO Outdoor Ministry blog for pictures and descriptions of the fun activities that the campers participated in. Thank you Megan and all the Camp Hamilton staff and participants for making this such a great summer!

Family Camp Aug 31 - Sept 3

Spend a carefree Labor Day weekend (August 31 - September 3) at Camp Don Bosco! You can join in on the fun with your kids or just hang out and read a book. Here's your chance to spend some quality family time without having to drive hours into the country to stake out a campsite. AND, we do the cooking! Accomodations are rustic, but clean and comfortable. Contact Debbie Fisher at 206-382-4591 for more information and to register!

Confirmation Retreat Dates 2009 - 2010

Here are the anticipated Confirmation Retreat dates for High School Youth that we are offering for the 2009-2010 year! Contact Bridget Harris for more info!

CONFIRMATION RETREAT #1: December 4 - 6 at Camp Don Bosco

CONFIRMATION RETREAT #2: January 15 - 17 at Camp Don Bosco

CONFIRMATION RETREAT #3: February 5 - 7 at Camp Don Bosco

CONFIRMATION RETREAT #4: February 19 - 21 at Camp Don Bosco

CONFIRMATION RETREAT #5: March 12 - 14 at Camp Hamilton

CONFIRMATION RETREAT #6: March 26 - 28 at Camp Hamilton

CONFIRMATION RETREAT #7: April 16 - 18 at Camp Don Bosco

CONFIRMATION RETREAT #8: April 30 - May 2 at Camp Hamilton

SEARCH Retreat!

On Friday, October 2nd until Sunday, October 4th, 2009, the OYYAM Retreat Ministry team will be offering a SEARCH Retreat at Camp Don Bosco for all high school aged youth! Contact Bridget Harris at 206-274-3175 for more details and to register!

Middle School Retreat Offerings for 2009-2010 School Year

OYYAM's Impact Retreat Ministry is now going into our third year of offering retreats for Catholic Schools and Parishes around the Archdiocese. The service team has already begun booking dates for next year so schedule your retreats soon.
These retreats are designed specifically for Catholic students in the 6th, 7th and 8th grades and offer a retreat for many different needs or
Learn more about these retreats, check the team's availability or schedule a retreat.