by Zac Parnell, Diocesan Youth Coordinator
Last term I had the privilege of visiting the youth groups across parishes in the diocese. In case you didn’t know, we have five youth groups, some coordinated by parish staff and some by a volunteers.
One of the real joys of my role has been getting out and visiting our parish youth groups, and meeting the people who bring these groups to life.
What struck me most was just how different each group is. Yes, there were common threads – shared meals, games, faith discussions, and prayer – but each group also carries its own essential charism. That said, after debriefing these visits with the Diocesan Youth Network (our coordinators from across the diocese), we’ve identified a handful of administrative tasks that are common to almost every group. With a little extra support, these could help our youth ministries be more compliant, more sustainable, and ultimately more effective.
Powered by generosity
Another clear takeaway from my visits was this: youth ministry runs on generosity. Even groups with a coordinator rely deeply on volunteers who show up week after week, often quietly, faithfully, and without much recognition. These leaders are the backbone of what we do, and their willingness to serve makes an enormous difference in the lives of young people.
Please keep these groups and their volunteers in your prayers, that they may be renewed with grace, energy, and joy. And if there’s a youth group in your area, consider getting involved. You don’t need to be a games wizard or a keynote speaker. Cooking a meal, setting up chairs, or helping with the clean‑up can go a surprisingly long way.
A glimpse of what’s possible
While Top End Youth didn’t officially launch in term 1, I had the privilege of spending time with many of their leaders and over 50 young people from the northern cluster at the Encounter Rally, hosted by St Joseph’s College Banora Point.
Seeing that many young people come together after school, to pray, reflect, and encounter the power of the Resurrection, was something special.
