Volunteer in Youth Ministry

Volunteers are the backbone of youth ministry. Without you sharing your gifts of time, talent, and treasure, a parish community cannot adequately serve its young people. Being a volunteer is very rewarding, and it has its challenges. Below are some resources that will allow you to better serve in your youth ministry program.

Becoming a Relational Youth Minister

(PDF, 61k)

Looking for a youth ministry to volunteer in?

If you're looking for a youth ministry to volunteer in, we encourage you to contact us about parishes in your local area. We can direct you to the right parish and youth ministry coordinator for you.

Check out local parishes in your area here.

Volunteer Job Descriptions

Having a job description that outlines the specific tasks a volunteer is to do reduces confusion and allows the volunteer to know exactly what they have said yes to. They also allow you to find a role in youth ministry that allows you to play to your strengths. The descriptions below are intended to be adapted for your specific parish.

Activity Leader

(PDF, 60k)

Catechist

(PDF, 62k)

Lead Chaperone

(PDF, 58k)

Handbooks and Other Resources

The Essential Qualities of a Volunteer

(PDF, 50k)

YM Specialization Resource Binder 2009

(PDF, 1.8mb)

On the Bookshelf of Volunteers

It is important for volunteers to spend some time reading books that will help enhance their ability to relate to the young people they serve. These are some book recommendations that any volunteer should consider taking a look at.

The Five Love Languages of Teenagers

by Gary Chapman

Teenagers in our youth ministry need to feel loved and cared for. Church should be a place where they feel this kind of support. Each of our young people respond to love, care, and support in different ways. This book will allow you to learn the five love languages of teenagers and how to appropriately show that care and support.