Adapting NLSS for Young People1. Let young people give witnesses. Peer ministry is very important with teens. Consider shorter talks given with preparation and adult supervision. If this is not possible consider shorter adult talks with video clips produced by
2. Young people have a better chance of thriving in faith if a parent or sponsoring adult comes to the seminar and participates in separate faith sharing groups designed for them. Young people also need the possibility of ongoing contact with adults who are models of sacramental charismatic faith.
3. Change the sharing questions to make them as concrete as possible. Encourage the use of a spiritual journal that can be used from week to week to record thoughts, reflections, sharing questions, and honest letter to God about why someone would need Jesus, faith and Church.
4. Use ACTIVE relevant ways to present the message of the Gospel like music, drama, videos, sign language gestures, popular songs, internet material and mock news reports. Foster a dialogue between youth culture and the Gospel. Help teens respond in active ways. Also skits, puppets or mime can become service projects for younger children in the parish. Display young people's work in bulletins and gathering spaces.
5. Help young people appreciate Scripture - the "Voice of God uttered through the Breathe of the Spirit." Scripture is a compass that gives hope and direction. (General Directory for Catechesis, 96). Try a Lectio Divina approach that involves listening for, and praying with, a striking phrase.
6. Help them explore the physical symbols used in Baptism and Confirmation. Delve into their meaning. For example: being sealed with the Spirit. Think of all the ways seals and signatures are used. Connect a decision to receive the Spirit in Confirmation wih a lifetime of unfolding faith and sacraments. HInt at God's future presence in the years ahead.
7. Sacramental preparation can be a teachable moment and a moment of evangelization for young people and parents. Since many adults are living lives of religious indifference, be aware of the need that some may have to complete or modify their own initiation into the Church and into a life of faith. (GDC 49). Consider tours of the church, welcoming rites, witnesses at parent meetings.
8. Share about the saints and blesseds who heard God calling them when they were teens. Encourage relationships with the saints that teens have chosen for confirmation names. For a complete list of saints who experienced conversions as young people, and more confirmation resources, contact this website.
