Building Connections

Jesus calls His followers to be the salt of the earth and the light of the world, to bring hope, truth, and love into everyday life. For our young people, that call is lived out right here in the world they navigate daily: at school, with friends, online, and within our parish community. Youth Ministry is one way we help them recognize that their faith is not separate from their lives but meant to shape how they show up in them.

This mission guided a recent Youth Ministry Leadership Team meeting, where we spent time talking about communication, engagement, and how we can better reach the teens of our parish. Together, we identified meaningful ways to build connection, strengthening our presence on social media (be sure to follow our new Instagram page) and incorporating games, trivia, and interactive moments that encourage participation and real conversation.

Looking ahead, we’ll continue to grow as a faith community through shared experiences. We’ll come together to prepare College Care Packages for former members of IHM Youth Ministry, a simple but powerful way to stay connected across distances and remind them they remain part of our parish family.

Each gathering is an invitation for our teens to live out Christ’s call – to be present, to serve, and to shine His light within our parish and beyond.

Scan. Follow. Belong. Scan the QR code to follow IHM Youth Ministry on Instagram – real moments, upcoming events, service, faith, and fun… all in one place. Don’t miss out. Scan & follow today!

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

Sunday, February 22 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: College Care Packages

Sunday, March 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night (HS Students Only)

Sunday, March 15 | 6:30–8:00 PM – St. Patrick’s Day Party

Sunday, March 29 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Living Stations of the Cross Rehearsal

Friday, April 3 | 5:30–8:00 PM – Living Stations of the Cross

Humility, Mercy and Love

This week’s Gospel reminds us through the Beatitudes that a life rooted in humility, mercy, and love for others is truly blessed. These words come alive when we see our teens choosing to show up, serve generously, and walk together in faith as a community.

In the weeks ahead, Youth Ministry will continue to be shaped by that shared spirit. Our Leadership Team will gather to pray together at Mass, serve side by side at the Pancake Breakfast, and then spend time planning what’s next for our parish’s teens.

We’ll also come together to prepare College Care Packages for former members of IHM Youth Ministry, an opportunity to stay connected across distances and remind them they are still part of our parish family. Our next Youth Ministry Night will be another chance to gather as a community, build friendships, and talk honestly about faith and life in a space where everyone belongs.

These moments reflect the heart of our faith – showing up for one another, serving with love, and growing together as disciples.

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

Sunday, February 22 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: College Care Packages

Sunday, March 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night (HS Students Only)

Sunday, March 15 | 6:30–8:00 PM – St. Patrick’s Day Party

Sunday, March 29 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Living Stations Rehearsal

Friday, April 3 | 5:30–8:00 PM – Living Stations of the Cross

From a Group Chat to a Growing Community of Faith

Our parish is blessed by young people who are learning what it means to live as disciples of Christ in their everyday lives. Through prayer, leadership, and a willingness to share their faith, they remind us that discipleship has no age requirement. Below, 8th grader Matteo Giafaglione shares, in his own words, how a simple idea among friends became a growing Bible club at Terrill Middle School:

“I was reached out to in a group chat by my friend named Ethan, and he alerted my friends Declan, Austin, and I with the intent to see if we wanted to start a Bible Club at each other’s houses. I then suggested that maybe we should have this club at our middle school (Terrill Middle School) instead, which ultimately worked out in the long run. After e-mailing both my vice principal and principal, finding a room with a teacher nice enough to let our club use it, and of course a teacher at Terrill who would be honored to supervise the club, it is safe to say that our Bible Club is a success that now meets every Tuesday after school. We now have a total of 38 members from kids from all grades, and a couple of 5th and 6th graders asked our club supervisor, Ms. Neidig, to see if they could join as well. We are now expecting the club to exceed at least 40 members by the next meeting, in which I, alongside the support of my friend Ethan, fully lead and teach this club where we strengthen our members faith, as well as our own, and learn about the Bible in a fun and engaging way. I want to thank our church, Immaculate Heart of Mary, for all their support and prayers, and of course Marielle the director of the Youth Ministry for her help as well. This could not have been done without you guys!”

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

This Sunday’s Gospel invites us to listen to John the Baptist as he points to Jesus and proclaims, “Behold, the Lamb of God.” John’s role is not to have all the answers, but to recognize Christ, witness to Him, and help others see who He is. That same call, to notice where God is at work and respond, continues to echo in the lives of the young people of our parish.

We’ve seen this lived out beautifully in our Youth Ministry service projects. Sandwich making was a huge success! In just two events, our teens came together to make over 900 sandwiches for those in need. Their generosity, teamwork, and willingness to serve show how small acts, when done with love, can have a real and lasting impact.

Our teens have also stepped up in a special way to support the younger children of our parish by helping with Children’s Liturgy of the Word (CLOW). Their leadership, patience, and care have helped create a welcoming and faith-filled experience for our youngest parishioners.

Our 8th grade Confirmation candidates recently explored the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, learning how to live out their faith at school, at home, and with friends. Meanwhile, our 9th grade candidates heard powerful vocation stories from Fr. Mike, Deacon Colm, and John McGuire, learning that discernment is about listening, trusting God, and taking the next step.

Please keep the youth of our parish in your prayers as they continue learning to listen for God’s call and live as witnesses to Christ.

The Feast of Baptism

This Sunday, we celebrate the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord, a beautiful reminder of the gift of Baptism and the beginning of our life in Christ. In His baptism, Jesus shows us that we are claimed by God, loved without condition, and invited into a lifelong journey of faith. Through Baptism, we become members of the Church and are entrusted to one another’s care.

In 2025, our parish joyfully welcomed several families who brought their children to the waters of Baptism, including: The Mercedes Family, The Ortega Family, The Chaia Family, The Wherrity Family, The Campione Family, The Clark Family, The Santa Family, The Donofrio Family, The Goggin Family, The Drum Family, and The Nelson Family.

We give thanks for these families and for their commitment to raising their children in the faith. Each Baptism is not only a family celebration, but a celebration for the parish as well, reminding us that faith is nurtured through community, prayer, and example.

This promise continues through every stage of life, including our Youth Ministry, where teens build upon the foundation laid at Baptism. Through service, prayer, and community, they are learning to live out the faith first given to them at the font.

May this feast invite all of us to renew our baptismal promises and recommit ourselves to walking together in faith.

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

Sunday, January 11 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night

Monday, January 19 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM – SERVICE: MLK Day of Service

Sunday, February 1 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Leadership Team Meeting

Sunday, February 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: Sandwich Making Night

Step Into A New Year

As we come to the close of the Christmas season, we take time to reflect on the joy, light, and sense of togetherness that filled our parish over the past few weeks. Christmas reminds us that Christ is with us, not just for a season, but in our everyday lives. For our teens, this is an important moment to carry that joy and hope forward as they return to their routines and step into a new year.

That spirit of generosity was clearly seen at our recent Babysitting Night, where the youth of our parish gave up a Saturday evening to care for younger children. The night was filled with games, laughter, and friendship, and it was a wonderful example of teens living out their faith through service.

Looking ahead, we’re excited for our next Youth Ministry Night, a relaxed and welcoming evening where teens can spend time together, build real friendships, and explore their faith through conversations and activities that are engaging, honest, and meaningful.

All teens are invited to join us as we move into the new year, continuing to grow, serve, and journey in faith together.

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

Sunday, January 11 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night

Monday, January 19 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM – SERVICE: MLK Day of Service

Sunday, February 1 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Leadership Team Meeting

Sunday, February 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: Sandwich Making Night

Gingerbread House Party

The joy of Christmas has truly been alive in our Youth Ministry, and the weeks leading up to Christmas were filled with laughter, service, and meaningful moments together.

On December 14, we hosted an amazing Youth Ministry Christmas Party, welcoming teens from 8th through 12th grade. Dressed in full holiday cheer, the night began with a delicious feast prepared by the one and only Mary Francis Malone. With bellies full, the teens jumped into a gingerbread house relay race and decorating contest, and the fun and friendly competition did not disappoint! The evening wrapped up with a lively gift exchange that had everyone laughing and celebrating together.

The following week, our teens gave the gift of service at the annual Babysitting Night, spending a Saturday evening caring for the younger children of our parish and greater Scotch Plains community. With plenty of food, fun, and friendship, it was a beautiful example of teens serving with joy and generosity.

As we share photos from these events, we end once again with deep gratitude and love. Thank you for helping make this Christmas season so special for our youth and our parish family.

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

Sunday, January 11 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night

Monday, January 19 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM – SERVICE: MLK Day of Service

Sunday, February 1 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Leadership Team Meeting

Sunday, February 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: Sandwich Making Night

Advent Week 4

As we celebrate the Fourth Week of Advent and prepare our hearts for the joy of Christmas, we’re reflecting with deep gratitude on the incredible witness of our teens earlier this month. On December 7th, nearly 15 teens stepped up for a full day of service and community. They helped host the gift-wrapping table at the Christmas Market, spreading cheer through simple acts of kindness.

We also launched the IHM Kids News Network, with the youth filming fun interviews throughout the event. Be sure to check them out on Facebook! A heartfelt thank you to all the parishioners who generously donated gift-wrapping supplies. Your support made the wrapping station possible and helped our teens bring joy to so many shoppers.

The day concluded with the Youth Discipleship Award Ceremony, where we joyfully honored Thomas Riley and Julianna Abrantes for their commitment to our youth group, parish, and community. Their dedication is a beautiful reflection of Christ’s love at work among us.

As we enter Christmas week, these moments remind us of what Advent love truly looks like: showing up for others, sharing our gifts, and preparing our hearts by living our faith.

Our teens have embraced this spirit so well, inspiring our entire parish family. May their example help all of us welcome Christ with hearts full of love and joy this Christmas. Merry Christmas from the IHM Youth Ministry!

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

Sunday, January 11 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night

Monday, January 19 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM – SERVICE: MLK Day of Service

Sunday, February 1 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Leadership Team Meeting

Sunday, February 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: Sandwich Making Night

Advent: Week 3

As we enter the Third Week of Advent, we are reminded that true joy comes from Christ, who is near. This joy is reflected so clearly in the teens of our parish – their energy, generosity, and faith-filled participation bring such joy to our whole community.

Over the past few weeks, both Confirmation groups have gathered for meaningful sessions. Year 1 attended the Mass for the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception together and explored how to live Advent with hope, peace, joy, and love. Year 2 spent time reflecting on the theme of waiting – waiting during Advent as we prepare for Jesus’ birth and waiting with Christ during Eucharistic Adoration. Their reflections and conversations were truly inspiring.

As we continue through this joyful week of Advent, we look forward to celebrating together at our Youth Ministry Christmas Party on Sunday, December 14 th , supporting the Food Pantry with another delivery on December 17 th and serving our parish at Babysitting Night on Saturday, December 20 th .

May the joy of Christ fill the hearts of our teens and our entire parish this Advent season.

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

Sunday, January 11 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night

Monday, January 19 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM – SERVICE: MLK Day of Service

Sunday, February 1 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Leadership Team Meeting

Sunday, February 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: Sandwich Making Night

Youth Update: 2nd Week of Advent

As we enter the Second Week of Advent, we reflect on the theme of Peace. The second candle reminds us of the calm trust Mary and Joseph carried as they journeyed toward Bethlehem. For our teens, this week offers a chance to pause throughout school and holiday business and welcome Christ’s peace into their hearts.

This theme connected beautifully with our Year 2 Confirmation candidates, who recently completed a session on Eucharistic Adoration and Advent. They explored what it means to wait, not with impatience, but with hope and openness to God. Their time in Adoration offered quiet moments to sit with Jesus and recognize Him as the source of true peace.

Teens are encouraged this week to embrace simple practices of peace: offering a short prayer, lighting an Advent candle, or doing an act of kindness. These small steps help prepare their hearts for the joy of Christmas.

We look forward to celebrating together at our Youth Ministry Christmas Party on Sunday, December 14, and serving our parish at Babysitting Night on Saturday, December 20. May this week of Advent fill our hearts with Christ’s peace.

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events
Sunday, January 11 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night
Monday, January 19 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM – SERVICE: MLK Day of Service
Sunday, February 1 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Leadership Team Meeting
Sunday, February 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: Sandwich Making Night

Advent Season is Here!

As we enter Advent, the Church invites us into a season of hope, preparation, and joyful expectation. Advent is a time to slow down, reflect, and ready our hearts for the coming of Christ at Christmas. For our teens, this season offers a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with their faith, practice intentional prayer, and look for Christ’s presence in everyday life. Through quiet reflection, acts of service, and time spent in community, our young people can prepare their hearts and minds to welcome Jesus with renewed joy.

In the spirit of Advent, our upcoming Youth Ministry gatherings continue to focus on service, fellowship, and growing in faith together. Next week, on December 7, teens will help support our parish’s IHM Christmas Market, offering their time and kindness as they assist with the festive wrapping station. Later in the season, on December 14, we will celebrate together with our Youth Ministry Christmas Party, followed by our cherished Babysitting Night on December 20, where teens give the gift of time and care to families in our parish community.

May this Advent be a season of peaceful preparation for all our teens as they open their hearts to the hope and joy of Christ’s coming. All teens are invited to join us as we journey through this beautiful season together!

Upcoming Youth Ministry Events

Sunday, January 11 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Youth Ministry Night

Monday, January 19 | 9:00 AM–1:00 PM – SERVICE: MLK Day of Service

Sunday, February 1 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Leadership Team Meeting

Sunday, February 8 | 6:30–8:00 PM – SERVICE: Sandwich Making Night