Lead Youth Ministry Training forms young leaders

By Heather Excell

Young adults from across the Archdiocese of Hobart gathered on Saturday 11 April for the first session of the Lead Youth Ministry Training series. The series, an initiative of the Office of Youth Evangelisation, aims to strengthen youth ministry in parishes around the state.

Director of Youth Evangelisation, Darcy Rogers, said the program grew out of a period of prayer and discernment aimed at meeting the needs of the young people in the Archdiocese.

“Lead Youth Ministry Training was created to allow youth leaders to discern more closely for what they have been called to be as missionary disciples, to prepare and strengthen their gifts, and to send them back out to their parish or communities with a plan, and with a community right behind them,” Darcy said.

The first session of the series focused on discovering and using one’s spiritual gifts, tips for deepening prayer, and learning the foundations of youth ministry.

Guest speaker, Mario Borg, Director of 24:7 Youth Ministry, facilitated the content for the day. He said the key to serving with confidence is good formation.

“Young leaders flourish when they understand the spiritual gifts God has placed within them. Instead of trying to imitate someone else, they learn to lead out of who they truly are,” he said.

“The future of youth ministry depends on leaders who are spiritually grounded, well‑formed, and confident in their mission. Programs and events are important, but it’s formed leaders who create lasting impact.

“Once young people understand their gifts and see how they can serve their parish, the first step becomes much easier.”

Ruby Prichard, one of Tasmania’s 24:7 Youth Ministers, said her journey into ministry grew out of a desire to give back to the Church.

“I had received so much, and I wanted to spend time giving back,” she said. “Before I started ministry, I thought I knew what leadership meant. Looking back, the training I received was critical. Events like Lead are a powerful starting point.”

Fellow youth minister Eilidh Direen said formation helps leaders stay focused on what matters most.

“You need to be grounded in your own faith and ask God what His plan is for the young people in your care,” she said. “The young people in our parishes are so faithful and capable, and I have no doubt they’ll make amazing ministry leaders.”

Darcy said the aim of the program is to form leaders who can help their parish and school communities grow in faith.

“Our hope is that leaders learn how to use their gifts for their community,” he said. “Success is making disciples by bearing honest witness to your own walk with Jesus.”

Future sessions of Lead will be held later this year in June and September, and all young adults are welcome to attend. Further information will be released on the Office of Youth Evangelisation’s Facebook page closer to the dates.