As the Diocese of Camden adapts to social restrictions in the wake of the coronavirus, its youth, young adult and campus ministries have found creative ways to foster a sense of community and keep the flame of faith burning for a church in isolation.
For most, the way to accomplish this is through what is ubiquitous right now: Zoom, the video-conferencing app suited for this moment.
“It’s a new vibe now, with new ways to form authentic connection,” said Alison Filion, director of Stockton University’s Catholic Campus Ministry In Galloway Township.
The group’s usual weekly Wednesday gathering at the center now takes place on Zoom, with time for a check-in, prayer and games.
She acknowledged the challenge and adjustments, but called this time a crucial and fruitful one for her members.
“God can work through this suffering,” Filion said, adding that she wants her students to know that through this experience, they can “recognize the areas in our hearts that have been clouded, and create more room for God, truth and beauty.”
Her ministry has also added a rosary prayer group on Mondays, and Friday night Bible studies.
Kim Pesotski, youth minister at Saint Mary of Mount Carmel in Hammonton, also sees an opportunity right now for the young church to gather in prayer — “the avenue that unleashes good,” she said.
In addition to weekly Zoom meetings with her group every day at 3 p.m., the hour of Mercy, Pesotski invites youth and their families to join her in a prayer call that includes the Divine Mercy Chaplet, psalm 91 and the Litany of Humility.
The absence of physical community builders such as a youth social or Sunday Mass has left a hole in the lives of many, and these daily digital gatherings are what the families need, she said. “Families have told me that they have left the calls rejuvenated, energetic and faith-filled. We need to keep a sense of discipline right now in our spiritual lives, so we don’t fall into desolation.”
“Seeds of faith are being planted now that will soon bloom,” said Jeffrey Shields, youth minister at Saint Rose of Lima Parish, Haddon Heights.
His middle school youth are meeting on Zoom every Wednesday for Bible Study, Lectio Divina and the Divine Mercy chaplet. As well, there have been virtual groups for high school boys and, soon, high school girls.
Shields’ ministry also has Saturday social on Zoom. This past weekend featured a talent show, with youth showcasing their singing, dancing or baking abilities, to name a few talents on view. “There’s a real thirst for community right now,” he said.
Betsy Anderson, co-founder of Atlantic City’s Parish of Saint Monica young adult and millennial ministry, knows what Shields is talking about.
“I need a little check in with my friends,” she said.
Her group has held “spirituality nourishing” virtual meet-ups on Friday nights, with even Father Jon Thomas, pastor, joining in.
“This group is full of such great faith-based people that encourage you in your faith — we have each other’s well-being at heart,” Anderson continued.
The ministry has also been active on Facebook, with a weekly livestream of a “Virtual Prayer for Peace.” Its members take turns saying a decade of the rosary.
Vineland’s Catholic Millennial Ministry (CMM) also meets virtually on Friday nights. On Good Friday they watched the film “The Passion of the Christ” together, pausing every so often to meditate on the Stations of the Cross.
“This is an opportunity right now to strengthen our relationship with Christ,” says one of its leaders, Jose Rodriguez, who is also diocesan coordinator for Youth, Young Adult and Campus Ministry.
His fellow CMM leader Star Martinez, said these challenging days call for all Catholics to step up, live the Gospel and help their neighbors. “This time holds us all more accountable — we can’t just say we’re Catholic, we have to be Catholic,” he said.
Rodriguez sees now as a time for youth, especially, to become faith leaders in their households, where all time has become family time. “Don’t be afraid to be a leader now, and live the liturgy in your homes,” he said.
Rodriguez also has seen “the Young Church mobilized now,” embracing each other from their own homes, and bonding through a difficult shared experience whose end is uncertain.
He is optimistic on what the church will find when this storm passes, and its doors reopen.
“It will be a packed house,” he said.
at the bottom and then tap “Add to Home Screen”
