43
St. Michael’s youth group kicks off year
Photo
Neighbors | Submitted.Clare Crescimanno (left), Fiona Lally, Claire Berlin and Nicole Joseph (right) had fun trying out all the different games at the Youth Collaborative of St. Michael’s Catholic Church Fall Kick-off Aug. 28.
Photo
Candace Kraykovich tried her hand at the Minute to Win It game Noodlin’ Around during the Youth Collaborative of St. Michael’s Catholic Church Fall Kick-off Aug. 28.
By ABBY SLANKER
The Youth Collaborative of St. Michael’s Catholic Church celebrated the beginning of a new school year at its second annual Fall Kick-off Aug. 28 at St. Michael’s Family Life Center. Approximately 100 students enjoyed a cookout and participated in several activities, both indoor and out.
The students chose between several games, including volleyball, basketball, cornhole and Minute to Win It games such as Noodlin’ Around, while DJ “Scotty2Hotty” played music.
“This event is an opportunity for the kids to kick back, hang out with their friends and have fun at church,” said Keith Campanelli.
The event was also a chance for the students to register with the youth group and learn about all the opportunities available to them, including faith-sharing groups. Faith-sharing groups are a place where the kids meet, read the gospel and apply it to everyday life.
The groups are designed for each grade level and are unique to the interests of the students. Activities in the past have included helping at soup kitchens, helping with bingo at Shepherd of the Valley, going ice skating, a bonfire and scavenger hunt.
“The faith-sharing groups are a place where kids can meet with their peers and form a support system,” Campanelli said.
As the students registered, they were entered into a drawing for such prizes as an iPod touch, a digital camera and iTunes gift cards. The prizes were donated by local medical professionals, including Austintown Pediatrics, Mill Creek Oral, Dr. Daniel DeAngelo and Dr. Ray Bernat of Advanced Dermatology.
The students could also sign up to become involved with the program’s newsletter, The 6th Page. The content of the newsletter comes from students who attend youth events and write an article about the event for the publication.
The purpose of the bulletin, which is published monthly, is to inform members of the church about youth activities and to nurture future journalists.
“This sets the kids up for next year’s events,” said Campanelli.
The kickoff was also an opportunity for parents to sign up to volunteer in several aspects of the youth collaborative.