Theology on Tap geared to young adult Catholics
By LINDA M. LINONIS
YOUNGSTOWN
Theology on Tap Mahoning County Chapter provides a forum to make connections in a community of faith.
David Redig is a member of the core team of the organization of young Catholic adults in their 20s and 30s. He said the connections are various avenues ... establishing new friendships, networking with those of the same faith and others of different backgrounds, social relationships and programs prompting discussion and exchange of views.
Redig, 33, a member of St. Luke Church in Boardman, explained the group is in its second phase, which has proven more successful than the first. It is marking its fifth year at a gathering Wednesday at MVR, 410 N. Walnut St. “The first time it fizzled,” Redig said.
He said a collaboration of parishes suggested a re-launch and this time it met with success. “Pastors were looking for something directed at young adults,” he said. “There were some brainstorming sessions and ideas were tossed around.”
Redig said there are structured religious education and guidance programs for children and teens but nothing for young adults. Theology on Tap fills that role.
He noted it is a national program that originated during the 1980s in Chicago. It’s approved by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, he said, and local groups sign up annually to use the name, logo and any materials available.
Redig said a goal of Theology on Tap is to offer an “open environment for participants to share their faith and develop their faith.”
Bishop George V. Murry of the Diocese of Youngstown has addressed the group several times. “He’s a popular speaker,” Redig said.
Redig said he thinks part of the success has hinged on the location of meetings ... in restaurants that provide a casual setting. Because it’s not in church, it’s “non-threatening and less pressure,” he said.
“The group definitely fills a need,” Redig said.
About six people were involved initially; meetings now average about 20. The group usually fills four to five tables; each table discusses the program topic then the overall group shares. Though the majority of participants are Catholic, that is not a requirement.
He said surveys are distributed at sessions so the core team can get feedback and input. “We want to discuss what’s important in people’s lives,” he said.
Redig said participants are single and married and some with children. The demands of jobs and children result in fluctuating attendance.
Redig said the core team members have different duties including booking speakers, suggesting topics and arranging venues. He, along with Brooke Steines, Kristina and Jason Henick and Jason Hays, make up the core team. The Rev. Shawn Conoboy, pastor of Christ the Good Shepherd Parish in Campbell, is the priest organizer.
Meetings generally take place at MVR, the Magic Tree and The Federal.