EDGE at Good Shepherd

WHAT IS EDGE?

EDGE is a weekly ministry for 7th and 8th graders that forms them in their Catholic faith. By separating the older from the younger middle schoolers, we are able to go deeper, have more interesting conversations, and cover more crucial topics in their life and faith. The goal of all of our youth ministries is to offer every young person a life-changing encounter with Jesus. This means that for EDGE youth we are going to focus on the issues that affect them the most, and how we can find Christ in the midst of a crazy life. 

WHAT DOES EDGE LOOK LIKE?

Every weekly gathering will take place on Sunday afternoons from 4:30-5:45 PM or Tuesday afternoons from 4:30-5:30 PM.  We mix it up between Large Group sessions, with fun games and an inspirational talk, and Small Groups where every student can be known and heard. 
 

2024-2025 EDGE REGISTRATION

WHEN DO WE MEET?

Is it Mandatory?

Do I have to go to EDGE?
Does my child have to go to EDGE? 

We expect all 7th & 8th graders to attend 80% of EDGE meetings in order to begin the Confirmation formation program during the end of the 8th grade year and 9th grade. 

Please note: EDGE sessions during holidays, breaks, and summer are not required. For up-to-date information: ask to be on our email list.

All of us are given free will to choose right from wrong, to choose sprinkles or no sprinkles on our doughnuts. Free will extends to EDGE. You discern if the formation events are more or less important than what else is going on in your life. No one is forced to attend EDGE. 

Please don't ask if an event is mandatory/required/compulsory etc. That's up to you to discern. Our Youth Ministry Team is simply trying to build relationships with young people and help them grow in a relationship with Jesus. 

Here's the thing: Life happens, family members get married, loved ones pass away, homecoming dances happen, your team competes at Nationals, etc. We understand these things are important moments in a person's life and we will happily work with you to cover the material of whatever was missed.... but some things can't be made up - moments of growing deeper in faith as you serve with your peers, team building or encountering Christ in a powerful way at Mass, in reconciliation or on retreat.

If you are in a period of your life where some aspect of your life repeatedly seems to supersede Mass attendance or EDGE sessions, then don't complete the prerequisites for Confirmation, come back when you can give yourself adequate time to prepare. The Church will be here when you are ready!

At the Confirmation Mass the youth minister testifies to the Bishop that the Confirmands have completed these elements offered (mini retreats, virtual small groups, service, etc.) and are prepared to be Confirmed. If you have not attended the offered events and Mass, it's very difficult to recommend you to the Bishop as having fully prepared for Confirmation.

We encourage you to ask the Holy Spirit for guidance and discernment. Then encourage you to exercise your free will. We are here to support you in your journey and will do what we can to prepare you to live as a disciple. It's up to you whether you want sprinkles or not.