Journey to Adulthood
The youth ministry of the American Cathedral uses the Journey to Adulthood program.
In January 2007, we began the first level of the course, for youth in grades 6 through 8, called Rite-13, which focuses on celebrating the individuality of each young person and their creative potential. The program helps youth explore the many facets of adolescence and offers a chance to discover how faith can guide and shape the journey to adulthood.
The Rite-13 liturgy (A celebration of Manhood and Womanhood) is the community expression of this and a rite of passage from childhood towards adulthood. We began the next level of the program, called J2A (for 9th and 10th graders) in the fall of 2008. This middle portion of the program engages youth with the skills and critical thinking involved in adulthood. The youth plan and embark on a pilgrimage together at the end of this segment. This experience is often the spiritual highlight of their youth.
And in the fall of 2010, the third level, called YAC (Young Adults in the Church; for 11th and 12th graders) was implemented. This is a mentor-based program that helps older teens discern and carry out a ministry within their church or in the larger community. Vocation and development of a personal credo are also emphasized. A final rite of passage sends them out into the world as ambassadors of Christ.
The Journey to Adulthood groups meet every Sunday (except during school vacations): Rite-13 from 12:30 to 1:30 (in the library), J2A from 4:30 to 5:30 pm in the library), and YAC from 4:30 to 5:30 (in the crypt).
We also have monthly evening activities which all teens are welcome to attend
For more information, please contact americancathedral.youthministry@gmail.com
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