At our Youth Ministry Kick-Off Night on Sunday, September 28th, teens came together for food, fun, and faith. We began by sharing a meal, then jumped into icebreaker activities that encouraged everyone to get to know each other, build teamwork, and grow in community.
In the Silent Line-Up, teens were challenged to put themselves in order from oldest to youngest without speaking any words. This meant they had to get creative, using hand motions, counting on fingers, or gestures, to communicate. We also tried the Human Knot, where teens stood in a circle, reached across to grab hands, and then had to work together to untangle themselves without letting go. Later, we participated in an activity called I am Like an Iceberg, where we reflected on what we show to the world “above the surface” and the deeper feelings, struggles, and strengths that often remain unseen “under the surface.” These activities reminded us that, just like in our Catholic faith, we are called to communicate with kindness, work together as the Body of Christ, and look beyond appearances to see each other as God sees us, fully known and deeply loved.
We had a great discussion about how these activities connect to Scripture, including 1 Samuel 16:7, where God reminds us that “people look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.
We’re also excited to share some upcoming opportunities for teens to stay connected:
Sunday, October 15 – Two exciting events at the same time!
+Box of Joy Service Night (Grades 8–12)
All 8th–12th graders are invited to help us donate and fill a Box of Joy. In partnership with Cross Catholic Outreach, we’ll be creating Christmas gift boxes for children who may not otherwise receive a present this season.
+Encounter Night (Disciples in Action Team)
The Disciples in Action (formerly Peer Leadership Team) are invited to join Marielle at St. Helen’s Church. We’ll attend 6:00 PM Mass together, then take part in the Jubilee of Youth & Young Adult with praise and worship, Holy Hour, fellowship, and glow-in-the-dark karaoke. RSVP directly to Marielle by calling the office or email at MarielleCarroll@ihmparish.net
Upcoming Events
Note: The schedule has changed. Our regular meeting time is now Sundays, 6:30–8:00 PM (unless otherwise noted), with new service opportunities added.
Sunday, Oct 19 | 6:30–8:00 PM – General Group Night (Church Basement) o All High School Teens – Bring a Friend!
Saturday, Oct 25 | 2:00–5:30 PM – SERVICE: Scotch Plains Trunk or Treat o All High School Teens – Bring a Friend!
Sunday, Nov 2 | 5:00–6:30 PM – SERVICE: College Care Packages o All High School Teens – Bring a Friend!
Sunday, Nov 2 | 7:00 PM Attend All Souls Mass together in the Church afterwards.
Sunday, November 15 | SERVICE: Babysitting and Hospitality During the Parish Retreat o All in 8th through 12th grade
Sunday, Nov 16 | 6:30–8:00 PM – Disciples in Action Meeting (formerly the Peer Leadership Team)
Sunday, Nov 23 | 1:30–3:30 PM – SERVICE: Community Friendsgiving o All High School Teens – Bring a Friend!