Parish of St. Benedict

Middle School Spirit

St. Benedict’s Middle School SPIRIT is a multi-faceted process of Christian formation for those in grades 6,7 and 8. The concurrent efforts at welcome, evangelization and catechesis include catechetical sessions, ministry opportunities, community service, retreats, liturgies and social activities specially designed to meet the interests, needs and level of faith development of 11 through 14 year olds.  Contact the parish office, or email lifeteen@stbenedict.org.

 Tuesday SPIRIT NIGHTS bring lectionary-based catechesis to life within the context of an active, participatory model of youth ministry making use of the Sunday lectionary readings to offer ongoing catechesis on the truths of the faith. The large group prayer, games and activities along with smaller, grade-level group activities foster a sense of belonging to the faith community while allowing an opportunity for more intimate faith sharing and personal reflection time.

 SPIRIT members and other middle school age parishioners are encouraged to participate in service to the parish community. We offer several ministry opportunities, including Ministers of the Word (Lectors), Ministers of Hospitality (Ushers) and Ministers of Music (Choir). Initial and ongoing training and practice are offered so that the youth may confidently play an integral part in community worship and service. Active participation in parish and community service opportunities fosters an understanding of the responsibility of stewardship. 

 An annual retreat or day of renewal is also offered as a means to focus more deeply on issues of particular concern to the middle school age group. Teachings of the faith and spiritual disciplines are taught and practiced within the context of meeting the challenge of living a Christian life in today’s world.

 Special liturgies are offered during the year to reflect the riches of the liturgical calendar and provide an opportunity for middle school families to worship together. The Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter seasons are favorite times to present age-appropriate rituals to deepen the faith experience, such as Family Advent Night, Outdoor Stations of the Cross and Family Reconciliation.

 SPIRIT SATURDAY is a monthly event that includes a specially planned Middle School Mass followed by a social activity. Mass includes the young ministers mentioned above, along with liturgy planning and homilies directed to the middle school age group. Following mass, fun social activities may take place on-site, such as Game Show Night, Bunko and Movies & Pizza. Favorite off-site activities include Laser Tag, Ice Skating, Extreme Bowling, Hayrides and Fiddlesticks, to name a few.

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