St. Peter's John Paul II Youth Group

Peace Light 12-19-11

2012-01-08T20:18:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone,

The Peace Light ceremony was an evening to remember. My friend Stephan Slabicky walked down the aisle of church with a lantern and this is what he said:

Dear Friends,
The flame of this lantern originated in the city of Bethlehem in the country of Israel. We bring you this light in the spirit of the One who was born there over 2 000 years ago, Jesus Christ, the one that the Bible calls, the Light of the World and the Prince of Peace.
The prophet Isaiah, long ago spoke these words, 'The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness - on them light has shined.'
This light gives us hope, that even though there is much darkness in the world, we can still see signs of loving and peaceful community. We can still see people living together in harmony, and working together for peace and justice.
Please receive the light of this lantern as a visible reminder of the mission we share. As believing people, our mission is to keep the hope of peace alive in our world, our communities, and our homes.

Then, it was my turn to thank him.

We thank you for bringing this peace light to us. May this flame inspire us to commit ourselves to peace, love, justice, and hope. may those we touch each day see this light shining in our lives. As Jesus said, May your light so shine before others that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. We wish you God's blessings and safety as you continue on your journey.

With the help of Stephan's mom, my candle was lit.

Then, Stephan read the concluding prayer.

Let us pray. Dear Heavenly Father, we thank you that your light shines in the darkness and the darkness cannot overcome it. Make us ambassadors of your peace in all that we do, think and say. Bless the flame that we carry and share with others. May it burn brightly in the lives of those who need to hear a word of hope. May it give courage and confidence to all those who face the darkness. Thank you God, for your light. Amen.

Then we walked round sharing the light (PEACE) with those we had gathered there.

Justin

Christmas Party

2011-12-11T16:39:00.003-05:00

Hi everyone,

I would like to thank all of those who helped out at the Christmas Party today in the Parish Hall. All contributions are greatly appreciated and thank you to Mrs. Barlow-Hansen for bringing in the prizes. Also, thanks to the Youngbloods for helping out with the photo-taking for Santa Claus. This couldn't have been a success without you guys. Everyone walked away happy.

Justin

Rosary on 12/2/11

2011-12-02T21:33:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone,

Special thanks to Amanda Nunes and Samantha Haddad for being at the Rosary with us this evening. Both of them read very well. I'm sure that it was a very rewarding experience, especially when it was also Anna's birthday (one of the senior citizens). By the way, she just turned 97. How many people have the privilege to say happy birthday to people that old?

Justin

Good-bye note to Mrs. Barlow-Hansen

2011-11-20T15:21:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone,

I hate to say goodbyes, but I had to today at the 10:30 AM Mass for Mrs. Barlow Hansen.

Good morning. My name is Justin, and I'm a member of the St. Peter Youth Group. I'm here this morning to express our sincere thanks and gratitude to our former director, Mrs. Barlow-Hansen. She was there since I first joined the group, and I thought that she was going to be there forever. As our leader, mentor, and above all, our friend, she has taught us the true meaning of contributing to our community, compassion, and responsibility. We would like to thank her for her time and energy working with us. Whether saying the Rosary at palace view, having the bake off, or having the Christmas dinner at Two Steps, we all had a great time. We, as the youth group, would like to wish her all the best and God bless her always.

Justin

Notes 11/6/11

2011-11-06T17:31:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone,

I hope that everyone has gotten their power back after last week's storm. The Saints Fair and coffee hour at the Parish Hall was canceled. Please be prepared for the next major event for the youth group, which is the Christmas wreath sale. We usually get a lot of money from there, so I will keep you posted.
A larger number of senior citizens came down to say the Rosary and we sang happy birthday to one of the senior citizens. If any one of you can play a musical instrument, please come; it will be a lot of fun.

Justin

Saints Fair and Coffee Hour 10/30/11

2011-10-28T21:54:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

We will be having the Saints Fair for CCD in the Parish Hall along with Coffee Hour after the 9:00 mass. Please bring your food directly to the Parish Hall. If you cannot find Mrs. Pat over there to drop off your food, please bring it to the Rectory.

Justin

Important Notice: 9-16-11

2011-09-16T19:25:00.003-04:00

Hi Everyone,

I am sure that all of you know that Mrs. Barlow-Hansen has left the youth group. After so many years of leading us, she decided that she would no longer be doing so. I would like to thank her for all that she has done for us. However, the youth group is still active and will be led by someone else. They will be named in the near future.

Justin

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T11:31:00.001-04:00

The youth group members would like to wish our director a Happy Mother's Day. Hope all is well!

-Justin

New updates in a long time

2011-04-03T20:51:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

I know that it has been a long time since I last posted, but here is the news. For the past few months, things have been running smoothly as usual. Yesterday was the Confirmation mass and we had to prepare the food and refreshments for everyone.
Also, yesterday also marked the first mass that we spoke at for the 30 hour famine. Please support the cause and donate if you are at one of the masses. We hope to make this another successful year.

-Justin

Upcoming Events in November

2010-11-05T21:26:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

The Youth Group has a lot of important upcoming events.

1. The Christmas Fair is on November 13th. It will be held in the Parish Hall.
2. Wreaths are on sale. You can get an order form from church.
3. The senior prom is on November 21st. It will also be held in the Parish Hall.

Next meeting is on this coming Sunday.

-Justin

Notes From 9-19-10 Car Wash

2010-09-21T20:13:00.002-04:00

Hi everyone,

We had our annual car wash on Sunday and raised more than $200 in tips. Thank you to all of those who contributed and made this success possible. This money will be used towards our Senior Prom, which will be held on November 21.

-Justin

2010-09-21T20:12:00.000-04:00

Notes from 8-1-10

2010-08-01T13:45:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone,

There are a few important events coming up during the month:

1. We're going to the movies on Tuesday, August 10, and then to Friendly's for some ice cream. This is meant to be a farewell for Tim and Malene as they will be going to college.

2. August 21 will be this year's date for Fan the Fire. It will be at St. Rose in Newtown.

Rosary with the senior citizens is this Friday.

Justin

Tag Sale on June 19

2010-06-26T12:31:00.003-04:00

During the tag sale on June 19, we sold food such as chips, hot dogs, and soda.It was a great success. We managed to make over $130 even though we had few customers in the beginning. Thank you to all of those who contributed and to Mrs. Barlow-Hansen who made it possible.

-Justin

Notes from 5-30-10

2010-05-30T18:09:00.002-04:00

Today we held the coffee hour in the parish hall. We didn't have many people there, but thank you to those who put something in the donation basket. After that, we went to Chuck E. Cheese and had fun.
We are also trying to recruit new members, so if you are interested please let us know. Thanks!

-Justin

Notes from 4-25-10

2010-04-25T16:34:00.003-04:00

Hi everyone,

The reception by the youth group for the Confirmation students, parents, and the bishop was a success. Thanks to all who helped out during the reception and congratulations to those confirmed.
The 30-hour famine was also a success. We were able to adopt 10 families and support them. The fund raising goal was also reached, which made this year's attempt a complete success.
Since it's the end of the year, we will be starting to make plans to go somewhere to relax and take a break from the work we've done throughout the year. *Updated* as of 5-16-10: Trips to Chuck E. Cheese and Lake Compounce are finalized.

Justin

Results from the Bake-Off

2010-02-08T18:05:00.002-05:00

The bake-off was held last Saturday on February the 6th. Like was said before, the two teams were Ace of Cakes Tim Lyon's team and Executive Pastry chef Malene Barlow-Hansen's team. After the food the youth group made was served, the results were tallied from the votes. The green team was Malene's team and the blue team was Tim's team. Tim's team won. Nevertheless, good job to all of those who put effort into this.

-Justin

Notes from January 24th meeting

2010-01-24T13:47:00.002-05:00

This is what we did today:

We didn't do much except for discuss what we were baking for the bake-off. So, we came up with names for our recipes that we chose and organized the teams further. Remember, the two teams are: Ace of Cakes Tim Lyons and Executive Pastry Chef Malene Barlow-Hansen. The bake-off itself will be held in the Parish Hall of the church on February 6th.

-Justin

Changes for the 30 Hour Famine

2010-01-22T16:44:00.005-05:00

For those who don't know, the 30 Hour Famine date has changed. It will be held on March 26th and the 27th. Nothing else has been changed so far.

-Justin

Notes from meeting January 17 2010

2010-01-18T10:00:00.007-05:00

First off, I would like to thank Kieran for allowing me to use this blog to post the notes from the meetings.

This is what we discussed at the meeting yesterday:

-World Vision's 30 hour famine is coming up soon. We will be camping out in the parish hall of the church during the famine, but we will also be doing a lot of other activities, such as making sandwiches for the seniors at Palace View and playing games in the Parish Hall. Obviously, you cannot eat any food during the famine, but juice and water is permitted.

-The bake-off will be held in the parish hall of the church on Saturday, February 6. The two teams will be led by Ace of Cakes Tim Lyons and Executive Chef Malene Barlow-
Hansen. Tim's team will be baking in the kitchen at the Rectory while Malene's team will be baking at the Parish Hall. Quick Reminder: You must make 3 of each cake or pie you're making.

-Next meeting is January 24th

Justin

Notes From meeting November 9

2008-11-09T17:10:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody- here's what we discussed today at the meeting:

-We have two more weeks of wreath sales after mass. Today we made the bows for the wreaths which will be delivered the weekend of thanksgiving. We will meet on the friday after thanksgiving to assemble the bows and wreaths.

-We have a holy hour and movie night on Friday November 21 at 6 Pm at the church.

-Our retreat "Why faith" is fast approaching (December 6-7) but we need people to start turning in their permission slips and $25-- you can send it all to the rectory or bring it with you to the next meeting. If you or anyone else you know is planning on attending the retreat- we need all payments in by November 24, and we need at least 20 people to sign up. The retreat team's talks are due on Nov 21.

Finally, the Children's Christmas party is December 13 at 1 pm in the parish hall.

next meeting is November 23

-Kieran

Notes from Meeting 9/21

2008-09-22T20:27:00.000-04:00

Here's what we discussed Sunday at our meeting:

--> Most important is the car wash next Sunday (9/28). This will be a major fundraiser for our retreat. 10AM-2PM behind the rectory. We need all the help we can get so please try to make this event.

-->Also next weekend youth group members are speaking at mass to promote the youth group. this is the schedule:

4: Kieran

530: tim

9: carly

1030: melene

12: sam W

If you did not get the pre written speech please ask Mrs. BH.

Our next meeting will be October 5 in the BASEMENT OF THE SCHOOL. Also that day is the Papal rally reunion in Fairfield at 630 pm. All youth group members are encouraged to come even if you did not see the pope in April. We will organize carpooling down to fairfield once we get a final headcount.

Finally meghan brought up a great cause that we can easily help out with. Oprah is raising awareness for a bill in the Senate that would give more resources to law enforcement to catch child predators. You can go here to learn more and help out.

Thanks

-Kieran

Notes from meeting August 24

2008-08-27T21:51:00.001-04:00

Hope everyone had a good summer. Here's what we discussed this past Sunday at the meeting, and what we're doing coming up:

Upcoming events:

1. The diocese is organizing a clean-up of the Seton Neumann retreat center at the top of Immaculate H.S. Its This Saturday August 30 .......... If you can come, email gdonnarummo@diobpt.org to say you are and fill out and bring the attached permission slip. This would be a great community service event for the youth group to take part in, especially since we will be using this facility for our retreat in December.

2. We need a final count of people who are going to Lake Compounce On Sunday August 31. Please Email Mrs. Barlow Hansen so we can finalize carpooling arrangements (the day will be paid for out of the youth group account so join us for a fun day to wrap up the summer)

3. Next Friday September 5 is Rosary at palace view with the Seniors 4:30 pm

4. Saturday September 13- Confirmation retreat. Several YG members are speaking- if you can come to help out and facilitate small groups (and provide witness to those about to be confirmed!) that would be great- about 12 noon until 4 pm.

5. We will be conducting a carwash fundraiser on September 28- we'll finalize this at the next couple of meetings but we need everyone's help!

Future Events (more info will come at future meetings):

1. Sunday October 5 from 6-830 pm there is a papal ralley reunion at St. Thomas Aquainas in Fairfield. We should all go to this- it looks to be a fun and interesting evening. You don't have to have gone to see the pope to come. We'll figure out carpooling arangements as the date gets closer.

2. Thursday October 23 is Confirmation- We have been asked to help with the reception

3. Rock the sound November 15

4. December 6-7 youth group retreat at the Seton Center

5. December 13- Kids Christmas party

Hope everyone has a good start of school. See you at upcoming meetings and events.

-Kieran

Summer Update

2008-07-29T23:13:00.001-04:00

Hey everyone:

Just a reminder- We've got first friday rosary at Palace View this friday August 1 at 4:30 pm. Please try to make it and bring either a drink, baked goods, etc

Also a recap of what we discussed at the meeting this past sunday:

-Fan the Fire youth Rally is August 16. If you have not yet gotten your permission slip to Mrs. BH do so ASAP. More info at http://www.fanthefirerally.com/ftfct08.html
-Mrs. BH will be emailing all 30 hour famine participants about prizes- we should all get a t shirt and a bracelet
-We are continuing to brainstorm and work on the Confirmation retreat which will be September 13
-There will be a Papal youth rally (Popestock) reunion October 5th...more info as we approach the date
-We are also continuing to plan for our own retreat to be held sometime in the fall at the Seton Center (on the grounds of IHS)

Hope to see many of you Friday

thanks

-Kieran

Youth Group Completes 30 Hour Famine

2008-03-10T18:01:00.000-04:00

Apologies for not updating the blog lately- The youth group has been very busy in planning and participating in World Vision's 30 Hour Famine. The Even took place March 7-8. We had a group of about 25 kids- not eating for 30 hours to raise money for the poor and hungry throughout the world. Sleeping in the parish hall friday night, we took part in various activities, both fun and spiritual including: stations of the cross, adoration, confessions, candle-light service, talk by Deacon John, World Vision speaker, lunch and rosary with the Seniors at palace view, and putting together Easter food baskets for needy families in our community. It was a great event- Many thanks to Mrs. Barlow Hansen for all her hard work and dedication in organizing the event. Thanks also to Mr. Barlow Hansen and Mr. Gallagher for chaperoning the event. Finally thanks to the parishioners of St. Peters for supporting the youth group in the famine and being so generous in donating to the cause, attending the bake-off fund raiser, and the bake sale. We exceeded our goal of $5200 by more than $1000...... with the total amount raised coming in over $6500.

Thanks

Notes From Meeting 12/9

2007-12-09T15:54:00.000-05:00

Notes from Youth Group Meeting 12/9

-Next Sunday- December 16th... We will be attending the Evening Vespers (evening prayer) and Madrigals singing starting at 4 PM in the Church. We will NOT be having Mass- we will attend the vespers instead. Following Vespers and the Madrigals, we will have our Christmas dinner party at Two Steps. For the Grab bag- please bring a gift for someone of your same gender for a value of $15.... we will throw all the gifts into a bag and have each person pull one out.

-Kids Christmas party Next Saturday December 15th.... Please be at the Parish hall at 11:30 AM. The party starts at 1pm and runs until 2:30 PM.

Assignments:

Door: Sarah and Torban
Face painting: Gabby and Melene
Gifts: Tim & Kieran
Crafts: Kaleigh, Lizzy, Carley, Brianna (Gina's sister), Meghan, Allie
Snow Man toss: Nick and Connor
Jar game: Sam and Jack
Pictures with Santa: Sam Winstrom
Music: Gabby

Next Meeting: January 6th

Our discussion today was how we can better prepare for the coming of Christ during Advent. Tim wrote an Acrostic poem

GIVE:

Go to confession, Mass, adoration, and stations of the cross
Intermingle with friends and family
Vespers and prayers are a good thing to do
Evangelize the faith

Email from Mrs. BH and Notes from meeting 11/18

2007-11-24T13:18:00.000-05:00

Hi
I hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving.

Thanks to those of you that came to Holy Hour. It was very nice. Thanks to Deacon for joining and leading us and preparing the stations. Thanks to Kieran for all the work pulling together the evening prayer. And thanks to Nick for altar serving- we know that cross gets heavy by about the 7th station. It was great to see some people from the parish- and particularly our buddy Joseph and his wife.

Also- many thanks to those of you that helped with the Thanksgiving drive! It reminded me of how we oiled the sacristy in 20 min at the famine because there were so many of you. You're helping out with the bags really made that work go fast. (when we walked into the parish hall, the ladies said- 'here comes the calvary :O)) ) You guys are the BEST! and really come together when help is needed. Iam always so proud of you and everything that you do.

A couple of things-

BAKE SALE SATURDAY DEC 1- 10AM to 7PM- you must all bake 2 items. I also need people to sign up to sell- even if only for an hour from 10AM to 7PM. A bunch of you are on the retreat and others at regionals, so the sign up sheet is empty... HELP! This is our fundraiser to pay for our Christmas dinner at Two Steps- so please help out selling (baking is not an option)

Father needs us to change the missals in the church. They actually have new black folders too. We are meeting in the church on Friday Nov 30 at 5:00. Let me know if you will be able to attend. For those of you that are not available on Sat- you can drop your baked goods off with me in the church on Friday when we are doing the missals. If a bunch of you come, it usually doesn't take more than an hour.

Second- for those of you not at the meeting on Sunday- we had a sign up sheet for the famine. Since it is by invitation only- you need to let me know if you are planning to come and if you want to invite someone(s) (and their name).
Oh BTW- the famine is currently scheduled for Friday March 7 and Sat March 8. I just found out that that is the weekend of Science Horizons. Let me know if that is a problem for any of you. If it affects alot of you, we will have to pick a new date- and the new date will probably be after Easter as I can't do it the weekend of March 1 and the two weekends prior to that are winter break.

We discussed the bake off- which will be Sat Feb 2. Father will let us use the kitchen in the rectory. Sam Iron Chef Winstrom's team will be cooking in the parish hall and Mr. Pastry Chef Gallagher's team will be cooking in the rectory. Once we have the list of everyone invited to the famine, we will have an initial meeting and pick teams. For those of you in the youth group that will not be doing the famine- you can still (and we hope you do) participate in the bake off and the fund raisers.

thanks
mrs bh

-Stations and Holy Hour on Friday was a great success. Thank you for everyone who came, especially Deacon John for leading us.

-Diocesan youth Leadership retreat: November 30- December 2 --> Connor will be attending it, Kaleigh and myself will be working the retreat. Please pray for its success.

-Bake Sale at the Christmas Fair: December 1st --> Everyone must bake two items and drop them off at the parish hall by 9AM saturday morning Please sign up with Mrs. Barlow Hansen for a time slot to work the sale.

-Children's Christmas party: EVERYONE must sign up to help at this event. It was a huge success last year and we hope to repeat that. Contact Mrs. Barlow Hansen if you haven't signed up to work at it.

-Youth Group Christmas Mass and party: Mass with Fr. 4pm in the church Sunday December 16 with dinner at Two Steps after and a gift Grab Bag

-First Friday Rosary at Palace View December 7th 4:30 PM

-Adoration at Notre Dame In Easton 5-8 PM December 9th .... more info to come

-Next Meeting: December 2 at noon in the school. We will also meet the following week (two weeks in a row) on December 9 to prepare for the Children's Christmas party

-Evangelization homework: pray before each meal.

Meeting 11/4

2007-11-04T17:49:00.000-05:00

Notes from Meeting 11/4

-First Friday Rosary at Palace view was great as always. Tim did a great job on the violin and Sam played the piano for the folks there. We will be back at Palace View on Friday December 7.

-Holy Hour Friday November 16- 5:30pm - 6:30pm in the church. We will have exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and adoration, stations of the cross, and evening prayer.

-Bake sale at parish Christmas fair: December 1

-Diocesan leadership retreat: November 30-December 2nd- If you are interested in attending, please contact Mrs. B ASAP.

-"evangelization homework" Say one hail Mary every day for the unborn until our next meeting which will be November 18.

Meeting 10/28

2007-10-28T16:13:00.000-04:00

Greetings:

Notes from the meeting on 28 October 2007-

Mrs. Barlow Hansen met with the new Diocesan youth director, Jamalia Evans this week. Mrs. Evans was very pleased with the various activities we do especially spiritual events such as adoration, rosary etc. She also offered valuable suggestions to help us as a group, including Possibly organizing a retreat for the youth group in the spring.

We have two new members- Lizzy and Kaleigh- Welcome!

We also had a good discussion relating to this Sunday's Gospel on humility.

Be sure to check the blog, calendar and your email for updates etc.

Upcoming events:

Diocesan leadership "High School Apostles" retreat---> contact Mrs. Barlow Hansen if you are interested. I went on this retreat in the spring and it was excellent- I'd really recommend it. Every youth group in the diocese is sending 2 members. The dates are November 30- December 2nd. Contact me or Mrs. Barlow Hansen with any questions. We need to get the paper work/application in so the sooner the better.

-First Friday Rosary at palace view. This coming Friday, November 2- 4:30 pm

-Stations of the Cross and Holy Hour November 16th Friday- 6pm In the church

Next meeting: TBA: Our regular meeting would fall on Veterans Day Weekend- I will let you know when we reschedule it for.

Future Events:

-Christmas Fair bake sale December 1st--> big fundraiser for us

-Kids Christmas party December 15th

-30 Hour famine: fund raiser idea--> "Iron Chef" cook off

-Kieran

Youth Group in full swing

2007-10-22T21:21:00.000-04:00

Sorry about the delay in updating the blog. The youth group has gotten off to a great start with the new school year with roughly 20-25 members. We had Mass and pizza with Fr. Gregg on September 28, getting a chance to meet and talk with St. Peter's new pastor. The group is visiting the folks at palace view every first friday and we started that on October 5, praying the rosary with them. The group hosted the confirmation reception on October 13th, again another success. Congratulations and God bless to everyone who was confirmed. Our next meeting will be October 28th. We will be discussing plans to have a Holy Hour of Adoration, plan for the upcoming Christmas season, etc. Please keep visiting the blog and checking out the bulletin for updates.

Youth Group Kicks off New Year

2007-09-22T10:28:00.000-04:00

Hope everyone had a great summer.
On September 2nd, the youth group took a trip to Lake Compounce for a day of fun at America's oldest theme park. Everyone had a great time.The youth group kicked off the new year last week with its first meeting after the summer and by participating in the parish picnic, hosting the games for younger children. This year is shaping out to be another exciting one. On Friday September 28, Fr. Mecca will say mass for the group at 6pm in the church, which will be followed by pizza in the parish hall. On Friday October 5, we will be visiting the elderly at palace view.

Please keep checking back with the blog and checking the bulletin for more info on what the youth group is doing.

thanks

Summer Update

2007-08-06T15:20:00.000-04:00

Greetings:

The youth group has been taking it easy this summer, but we have met a couple times. First, the group would like to welcome the new pastor of St. Peter's, Fr. Gregg Mecca. We would like to thank Fr. Audette for his service to the parish and we wish him well as he pursues his PhD.

The youth group will be attending the Fan the Fire youth rally on August 18 at St. Rose parish in Newtown. This is the second year of the rally here in Connecticut. It will be a day filled with prayer, music, fun, and food. Those interested in attending should contact Mrs. Barlow Hansen at mebh01@gmail.com to sign up with the group (individuals cannot attend, all must be part of a group). The youth group will meet this coming sunday, August 12 at noon in the parish hall to fill out forms for the rally, get more info, and finalize plans for meeting up and getting to St Rose on the day of the rally. You don't have to be a member of the youth group to attend the rally with the group. See the August 12th bulletin for more info or go to http://www.fanthefirerally.com/

Finally, At the end of August, the group is looking to go to Lake Compounce. More info to come.

Enjoy the rest of summer
-Kieran

Block Party a success

2007-05-28T16:41:00.000-04:00

Last weekend's block party, hosted by the youth group, was a huge success. Many parishioners and kids turned out to have a great time. It was beautiful day and there was plenty of food to go around. If I can find any pictures I'll post them. Thanks to everyone who came, Mrs. Barlow Hansen for helping to organize it, Mr. Barlow Hansen for cooking, and anyone else I may have left out.

Happy Memorial day.

thanks

-Kieran

We're back!--> Block party this sunday!!!!

2007-05-17T13:43:00.000-04:00

After a break for Spring vacation and Easter, the youth group is back. This Sunday, May 20, we're hosting a block party on the play ground behind St. Peter school. Everyone is invited, especially all CCD kids, as this is their last day of class. There will be food, games, fun and live entertainment.

See everyone there

30 hour famine a huge success!

2007-04-10T17:21:00.000-04:00

Thank you to everyone who participated in the famine (held last weekend), everyone who donated to it, and everyone who supported us in any way. Especially thank you to Mrs Barlow Hansen, Mr Barlow Hansen, Mr Gallagher, and Mr and Mrs Wilczewski. We raised over 5000 dollars and everyone had a great time and got a lot out of the whole experience. Here's some pictures:

30 HOUR FAMINE TOMORROW!

2007-03-29T22:29:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow is the big day- the youth group (along with kids from Immaculate high school) will be holding their 30 hour famine in order to raise money for starving kids around the world. We will not eat for 30 hours, during which time we will be locked in the parish hall and church, doing various spiritual, fun, and community service activities. Please keep us in your prayers and we will post the results of the famine along with pictures and maybe even testimonials (if I'm that organized)

thanks

-Kieran

Recap of Sunday's youth group/ 30 hour famine meeting

2007-03-26T18:34:00.000-04:00

Greetings:

Here's the note's from this past weekend's meeting-

Youth group/ 30 Hour Famine Meeting 3/25/07

A. Youth Group-- Rosary at palace view went well on Friday- Will do next Friday- 4:30-- on good Friday- we will do stations of the cross instead of Rosary w/ Deacon John

- Next meeting date is Easter- will move to 3 weeks from now (spring break)-- may be 4 weeks from now-

B. 30 Hour Famine- All participants present are allowed to participate on Friday in the famine- those not present because of illness should contact Mrs. Barlow Hansen. Those not present without serious reason will not be allowed to participate on Friday.

-After introductions, we watched the 30-hour famine video. Fundraising packets were passed out along with a general information packet and permission slips. All participants must have a signed permission slip and participant contract on Friday in order to participate. Everyone must also raise at least $30, but as Mr. Gallagher said, it is up to each person to make it his own challenge to raise the most money he can. IHS Community service forms will be available at the Famine for fill out so Mrs. Barlow Hansen can sign. If you need hours for another organization its up to you to bring your own form.

The famine looks to be coming together well and should be a great event. Thank you to all who are involved and who are supporting us.

C. Bake Sale- This weekend’s bake sale went extremely well- we made around $700- thank you to all who baked, bought, and worked the sale.

After the famine, I will post the final amount of money raised as well as pictures from the weekend etc...

keep us in your prayers

-Kieran

Reminder: Famine meeting tommorow

2007-03-24T21:14:00.001-04:00

Greetings all:

Just a last reminder that tomorrow, March 25 is a MANDATORY 30 hour famine meeting for ALL Participants (save a serious reason like sickness etc.)

The meeting will begin at 12 noon and last about an hour. It is in the Parish hall, the basement of the church (Same place where the bake sale is held)

hope to see everyone there

thanks
-Kieran Raval

30 hour famine update

2007-03-20T19:32:00.000-04:00

Some very important information for this weekend regarding the 30 hour famine at St. Peters (to be held March 30-31)

1. Friday March 23--> We are holding a famine fund raiser. We are providing babysitting for the night to St. Peter's parish. We will gather at St. Peter school (98 Main Street- enter on side off Wooster Street) at around 5:15. The babysitting will run from 6-10. We'll have various activities for the kids etc to keep them busy and what not, as well as food for us (I hope). Everyone needs to email me telling me if they can make it or not.

2. Saturday & Sunday (March 24 &25)--> Another famine fund raiser-- Bake sale. Everyone needs to bake something and drop it off in the parish hall (under st. Peter's church) by Saturday at 4:30 PM. Next we need people to work the sale which will occur after the 4 & 530 pm masses on saturday and 730, 9, and 1030 am masses on sunday. So far signed up to work the sale are:

4 pm

-Kieran

-Kevin

5:30 pm

-Jess

-Sam

-Allie

Sunday:

7:30 am

-Gina

-Meghan

9:00 am

-Tim

-Jen

-Kristen

10:30 am

-Melene

-Sarah?

-Torben

-Christian

-Ryan

-J.O.

3. Finally MOST IMPORTANT--> There is a MANDATORY MEETING for ALL famine participants on SUNDAY MARCH 25 at 12 NOON in the Parish hall of St. Peters. (For those of you who don't know where St. Peters its the big church right across the police station on main street- the parish hall is the basement of the church, with access from either side on the outside of the church). If you are not at this meeting you will not be considered part of the famine and will be asked not to come on the 30th (save serious reason- sickness, emergency etc). It is important to have the whole famine team together before the actual event.

Thats all for now- please keep checking your emails and the blog for more updates

-Kieran Raval

We're back

2007-03-11T16:30:00.000-04:00

Sorry folks for not updating the blog in like 2 months. Blogger switched over to like Google and has been annoying and I couldn't log in etc. But I finally figured it out and we're back.

So just a quick overview of what the John Paul II youth group has been up to:

-In January we pretty much chilled out and had a movie night with evening prayer as well.

-2 weekends ago (Feb 23-25) 3 of our members- myself (Kieran), Jen, and Dave went on the Emmaus 62 teen retreat. I think we pretty much agree it was a very spiritual, moving and interesting experience and I personally would recommend it to anyone.

-During lent the youth group is saying the rosary at Palace view (a retirement home right next to the police station) every Friday at 430 pm. Come join us. Its actually a really awesome experience. Jen did a sweet job leading us last week and singing as well. Meghan will lead this coming friday (March 16)

-Our big upcoming event: 30 hour famine!

- this is the 2nd year the youth group is doing World Vision's 30 Hour Famine-
http://www.30hourfamine.org/

Its a great event where we fast for 30 hours and have a lock in and raise money by having people sponsor us. The money goes to feed hungry children in 3rd world countries etc.

Our famine date is set for March 30-31. We will meet in the parish hall at 630 pm on Friday the 30th and conclude the lock in around 6pm on Saturday evening.

Last weekend and this weekend we collected donations after masses--> we've raised over $700- THANK YOU TO ALL WHO GENEROUSLY CONTRIBUTED

We have 2 main fund raising events happening for the famine:
1- Friday March 23 the youth group is offering babysitting for the evening from 6-10 in the school. There are sign up forms in the bulletin and the cost is $15- no limit on how many kids. [Also please know that we have several members who are certified baby sitters]

2- Saturday March 24 and Sunday March 25 we are holding a bake sale in the parish hall after all of the masses except noon and 615. All famine participants must sign up to work the bake sale after at least one mass and all participants must bake something and drop it off at the parish hall by 5pm on Saturday March 24.

There is a MANDATORY meeting for ALL famine participants on Sunday March 25 at 12 noon in the youth center (basement of st. Peter school- across from the Rel Ed. office).

Please check the blog regularly now as I will be posting important information about the famine as it comes about. Thanks and God bless

-Kieran

More Pictures from Two Steps and Lots of stuff going on...

2006-12-18T16:31:00.000-05:00

Heres Some More Pictures from too Steps Last weekend:

Alot Was going on this weekend. On saturday the Youth group hosted a Christmas party for the little kids in the parish. It went extremely well. There were about 60 kids there with their parents. Thank you to all who were there to help out. Please get your community service forms filled out so Mrs. B can sign them if you want hours for working at the party. We didn't go to the coffee house cause no one wanted to (mostly). Sunday the youth group went to visit a couple of homebound people down the street. They sang carols to them, give them a present, and read from the day's 2nd Reading.
This thursday, December 21 we will be decorating the Church at 5pm and having stations of the Cross, and I think, pizza. Hope to see you all there.

Enjoy the last week of Advent.

Heres what Fr. Al had to say about the Youth group's efforts this past weekend:

Hi,

Feed back from your visit with the elderly is tremendous! I can’t describe the impact you made except to say that is was something most had never experienced before – especially your strong SPTITUALITY! Music to my ears…

I look forward to your helping with the church decorating – nativity set and flowers – some ribbons – some lights …

Fr. Al

YOU ARE ALL V E R Y SPECTACULAR! IT WAS A STUPENDOUS PARY – THE THINGS THAT YOU DO NOT ONLY RESULT IN TREMENDOUR GRACE FOR YOUR PERSONAL INTENTIONS – BUT FOR THE WHOLE PARISH AS WELL!

I LOVE YOU ALL.

Fr. Al Merry Christmas…

Pictures from Two Steps

2006-12-15T18:25:00.000-05:00

Christmas Mass and party

2006-12-13T18:03:00.000-05:00

Sunday the youth group held a Christmas mass in the Sacristy for its members, parents, and anyone else who wanted to attend. It was a great spiritual experience that brought the group closer in Christ. Afterwards we went to Two Steps for dinner. I think I can speak on behalf of everyone and say that everyone had a killer time. Thanks alot to Fr. Al for celebrating mass for us and to Mrs. Barlow Hansen for the gifts and for dinner.

This saturday is the kid's Christmas party for the little kiddies. Be in the parish hall at 11am. The party starts at 1 but we gotta set up.

See everyone then
-Kieran

Notes from Meeting 12/3

2006-12-03T20:50:00.000-05:00

heres the notes from today's meeting. WE HAVE A LOT OF STUFF COMING UP SO BE SURE TO CHECK THE BLOG AND EMAIL FOR REMINDERS UPDATES ETC.

-Parish council meeting-- wants us to talk to CCD and 8^th grade in school.

-Changed missals in church- went well. Thank you to all who came to help out. Bring community service forms to Mrs. Barlow Hansen.

-Coffee House- 7:30 December 16. Performances and food. After Kid’s Christmas party.

-Visiting homebound at 12 noon December 17. Meet first in youth center. Then walk down to Danbury Commons (right down street on main street.)

-Next Sunday 12/10- Christmas mass - 3pm in sacristy

-cantor-

-1^st reading- Meghan

-2^nd reading- Kieran

-Responsorial psalm (recited, not sung)- Jen

-Prayer of faithful- Tim

-Gift bearers- Torben and Sarah

Hymns: Opening: O Come all Ye Faithful- 1^st verse

Offertory - Allie O Holy Night

- Tim to play violin- Gina on flute. After Communion

Closing- Joy To the World

Walk to Nico’s. after for party.

-Grab bag- bring a $15 gift.

Updates

2006-11-22T17:51:00.000-05:00

Hi Everyone
It's Mrs. Barlow-Hansen. Couple of things (kinda long note- sorry).

First - thanks to all of you who came and baked for the bake sale on Sat (particularly if you weren't at the meeting Sunday.) You all baked (more than one thing and everything was delicious) and you all came to the sale to help out. I had several comments from people from the parish and I was so proud of you guys!
We made $252!!! Like Kieran says- we could buy a Wii (whatever that is)

Thanks to Meghan for leading the discussion at the meeting on Sunday- great job! I always come away from the discussions feeling like I heard something that really hit home and how special you really are-

I spoke to Father Audette and we are all set for our Christmas Mass- It will be Sunday Dec 10 at 3:00 (either parish hall or sacristy) and it will be followed by a Christmas Party. Anyone can attend the mass- your family, people from the parish etc. The party is just for us. It will be your mass, so you need to sign up. Please send me a not back telling me what you want to do.You can do things solo or with groups or with accompanying instruments. It should be all Christmas music (Father says that's ok). So here is what we need people for- (and you can sign up for more than one thing- I will put the schedule together when I get everyone's input) We need to do it through notes since our next meeting isn't until Dec 3 so that will only give people one week if they want to prepare a song- if you sign up to sing- let me know what song. I know some of you also play instruments if you want to accompany someone singing or just do a solo that's good too..
opening hymn
offertory hymn
communion hymn
closing hymn
bringing up the gifts
Eucharistic minister
reading one
reading two
prayer of the faithful
I think I got everything here- if not- let me know. Also- are you interested in doing a secret Santa or grab bag for our Christmas party that day.

I went to the parish council meeting on Monday- we are the talk of the parish- all good things!! I spoke to the woman on community concerns and told her we were interested in visiting the homebound. We had talked in our youth group meeting Sunday about going during one of our meetings in Dec.
So Dec 17, we will be going to Danbury Commons as a group. We can talk more at our next meeting, I just wanted to give you a heads up.
We will go during our usual meeting time- (maybe you CCD folks can get out a little early so we can leave right after 10:30 mass.) Apparently it's right down the street from the school and there are like 15 homebound people that live there, so we can either meet at the school and walk down or I can drive the mass and CCD folks and the others can meet us at Danbury Commons. We are going to carol- so I will print up a few Christmas songs and bring them to the next meeting and we can practice a little and we will probably bring a small gift- plant, candy to each that we visit. The community concerns person is going to speak with someone there to help set it up. We will probably go to specific apartments and spend a few minutes. I don't think we will be visiting all 15- I would guess we will be there maybe an hour and a half. (Kieran- you can do a Millie Vanilly on the singing :O)) )

Other reminders-
Dec 2-- Sat- 1:00 at the church to change the missals
Dec 3- Sun- 12:00 at the school - our meeting
Dec 10-Sunday- 3:00-our Christmas mass and Christmas party
Dec 16 - Sat 1:00-2:30 (be there at 11) Children's Christmas party and coffee house that night
Dec 17 - Sun 12:00 visit the homebound
Dec 21 Thurs 5:00 in the church- stations of the cross, decorating the church and pizza

Yikes! That's a busy month!

Since we won't have much meeting time in Dec- start thinking about Jan and what you want to do.

thanks
Mrs. Barlow-Hansen

Notes from meeting 11/19

2006-11-19T14:09:00.000-05:00

-Bake sale went well- $250 made. (lets get a Wii)

-help out at ‘Specialties’- food and stuff being sold in parish hall after Masses. Once a month after 10:30 mass before meeting-- Mrs B will set up the date etc.

-ad in news times? – Mrs. B will check

-visiting homebound during Christmas time- during meeting time one Sunday- again Mrs. B will check on time and place

-Saturday December 2^nd 1pm replace missals (booklets) in church

-Decorate Church for Christmas 5pm 12/21 & stations of the Cross w/ pizza after

-Kids Christmas party- Saturday December 16 [be in parish hall TO SET UP at 11 am- party runs 1-230]:

-kids bring a gift- put in age group piles

-Santaà Deacon John or Mr. Barlow-Hansen è will give gifts to kids

-I will email the people for more info on the coffee house after the Christmas party- 7:30pm link http://www.1heartonline.org/

-December 10^th- Mass w/ party after??? (Mrs. B will check on date)

-Next meeting- December 3^rd- 1^st Sunday of advent

Also, the evening prayer this past tuesday went well. Thanks to all who made it.

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone.

Evening prayer tommorow!

2006-11-13T20:01:00.000-05:00

This is just a reminder that the youth group will be holding evening prayer (liturgy of the hours) in the sacristy of the church tommorow, November 14 at 6pm. The books will be provided and we should last no more than half an hour. All are invited to join us.

I hope to see everyone tommorow
-Kieran

Notes Meeting 11/5

2006-11-05T20:51:00.000-05:00

Youth Group Meeting 11/5/06 Notes

Present: Kieran, Torben, Sarah, Mrs. B, Melene, Jen, Tim, Sam, Carley, Kyle.

-Living rosaryà Great success. Plan Evening Prayer (Vespers). à November 14 6pm

-Parish Christmas Fair- Saturday November 18^th. We need to bake. Sell 10AM-7PM

-Rock the Sound Coffee house in Danbury— I will email- info@1heartonline.org for info – December 16^th 730 pm.

Mass around Christmas time for Youth Group

-Fundraiser- ‘café night’ in 07 w/ performances

Excellent discussion on Loving self and neighbor

Next meetingè November 19^th 12 noon. (Be there or be square)

Youth Group DVDs

Living Rosary

2006-10-26T20:36:00.000-04:00

Greetings all:

Tonight the youth group held its bi-annual living Rosary, in the Sacristy of the church. It was deffinatly a very spiritual event reciting the Novena to Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal as well as the rosary. Thank you to all who came, especially the sisters (nuns are cool). We are gonna plan to do evening prayer (Divine Office) sometime in November in the Sacristy as well. Our last meeting was this past sunday- 10/22. We had an excellent discussion on how far we are willing to go to follow Christ, in relation to the Gospel. We need to engage in more of such discussions, and if you guys dig it I'll keep bringing the topic starters from lifeteen. We are looking into doing a weekend Emmaus of Danbury teen retreat in February. I will line up the woman who is in charge to come speak to us. The national Pro life day of silence was this past Tuesday (10/24), so thank you to all who participated in it. Next youth group meeting is Sunday November 5 at noon in the basement of the school (across from REL ED office). Thats about it.
Peace

-Kieran

Walk Beyond Disability a Great Success!

2006-10-18T20:10:00.000-04:00

Thank you to all the youth group members who came down to the Walk Beyond Disability this past Sunday morning. Even though it was cold we had a great turn out of volunteers and walkers and really made a difference in the lives of the disabled. There were 2000 walkers who raised $160,000 and it couldn't have happend with out the volunteers. It was a great way to start the Youth group off in serving the Community and living James 2: 14-26 --> "Faith without works is dead". A reminder that this friday is movie night in the parish hall from 7 to about 9 I would say. Bring your freinds and $5 bucks for pizza. If some people could bring drinks, some napkins, plates, or whatever else you want. We'll be seeing XMen 3. Then we have a regular meeting at 12 noon in the school (acrross from Rel ed. office). The living Rosary is on Thursday October 26 at 7pm in the Sacristy of the church (the room behind the alter). We will have adoration and benediction, the rosary, and the Novena to the Miraculous Medal. Again, this event is open to all so bring as many people as you can. Thats about it. See everyone on Friday night

-Kieran

NEW DATE FOR LIVING ROSARY

2006-10-09T14:08:00.000-04:00

Due to a conflict with the IHS Talent show on Friday October 27th, we are reschedualing the Living Rosary for Thursday October 26th at 630 pm in the church. Again, please get the word out and bring as many people as possible to make this event a success. ALSO if you are interested in volunteering at the Walk Beyond Disability on Sunday October 15th at 9AM, I need to hear from you ASAP. Thanks

-Kieran

Notes from Meeting 10/1

2006-10-03T17:31:00.000-04:00

John Paul II Youth Group Meeting 10/1/06 Parish Hall

I. General Info

A. Attendance: 1. Kieran

2. Tim

3. Jen

4. Allie

5. Torben

6. Melene

7. Mrs. Barlow Hansen

8. Gina

9. Sam Tung

10. Jack Perry

B. Overview: The group’s first ‘official’ meeting of the year. Welcome to the new members. Growth is continuing and more new members will hopefully be at the next meeting. A number of events are planned for the month of October including volunteering at the Walk Beyond Disability, Movie Night, and the Living Rosary. The youth group has a good amount of funds in the account from last year.

II. Recruitment and Growth

A. Keeping the group growing:

1. All members are encouraged to bring friends and prospect youth group members to meetings and group events.

B. CCD & St. Peter School:

1. Kieran and Tim spoke to 8^th grade CCD class before the meeting about the youth group. Allie said the class expressed interest but this meeting was too short notice- will come to next meeting.

2. Will contact Mr. Hewitt at St. Peter School about coming in to speak with 8^th grade.

3. 7^th graders will be spoken to in the spring.

C. Spanish and Brazilian Communities:

1. Will contact Fr. Flynn and Msgr. Pedro about promoting the Youth Group to Spanish and Brazilian Communities.

III. October Events

A. Walk Beyond Disability:

1. October 15^th 9AM at Rogers Park. Volunteering at the food tent. Please print out and send in volunteer form- SOON. Attached as word doc. Check ‘food tent’ and ‘volunteer tent’. All those participating please email me.

B. Movie Night:

1. October 20^th 7pm. Again, bring your friends etc. Everyone bring $5 to get pizza. Email me with movie suggestions.

C. Living Rosary:

1. October 27^th 7pm in the church.

2. Please promote and advertise it.

3. Thank you to Gina for heading it up.

IV. Future Events:

A. Feeding the Homeless- Suggested by Fr. Al. Will coordinate with Men’s Society. Making and distributing sandwiches.

B. Kids’ Christmas party:

1. December 8^th

2. Games, crafts, santa, food, music.

V. Meetings:

A. Meeting Content: PLEASE bring items to discuss, ideas, activities to do at meetings so we’re not always talking business!

B. Next Meeting: Sunday October 22^nd- Noon to 1:15 in the basement of the school- Old Youth Center- Room across from CCD Office. Bring a friend!

C. Parish Council: Meets 3^rd Monday of every month. Mrs. Barlow Hansen and Several youth to be present and show the parish what the group is doing.

Meeting with Fr. Al and an update on the Walk

2006-09-24T20:39:00.000-04:00

Greetings to all:
I hope everyone had an enjoyable weekend.
Yesterday (Sat. Sept 23) Mrs. Barlow-Hansen and I met with Fr. Audette to discuss plans for the Youth Group etc. Hes behind us 100% and gave us a few excellent ideas. We discussed a space for the youth group which we'll go into more detail at the next meeting which is Next Sunday, Oct 1 at 1145 AM in the parish hall. REMEBER TO BRING A FREIND! Also those who have not contributed their $5 to Mr. Howe's gift please get that to me by Sunday. Thanks and I hope to see everyone on Sunday.

Now for the walk: IHS will only be volunteering, not walking at the Walk Beyond Disability. Tell me what you guys think- if you'd rather just volunteer or if you'd like to raise money and walk in the event. I've gotten the volunteer forms and the guy wants us to work in the food tent. We'll discuss this further at Sunday's Meeting.

Everyone have a good week.

Peace.

Gearing up for Walk Beyond Disability

2006-09-17T13:23:00.000-04:00

Greetings:

I think we should all build up the energy and excitment for the upcoming Walk Beyond Disability on October 15th at 10 AM. It looks to be a great event for a great cause and an awsome way for the youth group to kick off the year serving the community. I'm coordinating the IHS group as well as the Youth Group for the walk and hopefully we can team up into one group at on the day of the walk. I'm meeting with kids from Immaculate on tuesday who want to participate and hopefully we can get on a path to raising funds and recruiting walkers and volunteers and setting some goals. I'll share what we discuss with the Youth group at our next meeting on October 1st. For now, start working on getting pledges and sponsors from neighbors, freinds, family etc. We probably will not do a serious fundraiser for it but maybe ask for sponsors after masses one weekend etc. Also lets try and recruit as many people as possibly to participate in the walk- THEY DON'T HAVE TO BE IN THE YOUTH GROUP OR GO TO IHS!!!! This can also be a great way for the youth group to show itself and bring in new people. If you haven't done so check out this for more info or email me at jpiiyouth@gmail.com

Peace to all on this holy day.

1st Youth Group Meeting of 2006-2007 year

2006-09-16T21:16:00.000-04:00

Greetings and peace to all:

Today We had our first youth group meeting since Mr. Howe's departure. It was very productive and much was discussed and planned. Be sure that we have all intentions of keeping the youth group going and we are supported by many parents and by Fr. Al. We thank you all for your support. We hope this year to start building up again with new members and new activities and ministries. We ask everyone for their prayers as we get back on our feet. Below are the (extensive) notes/minutes from today's meeting. Also please check the bulletin as we will be putting a "youth group corner" in it every other week. Thanks and God bless

John Paul II Youth Group Meeting 9/16 Raval Home.

I. General Info:

A. Attendance: 1. Kieran

2. Tim

3. Jen

4. Meghan

5. Torben

6. Melene

7. Mrs. Barlow Hansen

8. Mrs. Raval

B. Summary: Commitment from youth to keep John Paul II Youth Group and overall youth ministry of St. Peter running even after departure of Mr. Howe. Commitment also affirmed by many parents and Fr. Al. Mrs. Barlow Hansen is willing to step in and help out youth group (THANK YOU). Re-starting the group with core members and planning upcoming events, activities, etc for the year and recruiting new members.

II. Communication- Important to keep parish informed of an active youth group & to help recruit new members

A. Bulletin section on Youth group:

1. Meetings & events schedule

2. Minutes from meetings

3. Email address, blog, calendar URLs

B. Internet:

1. Blog- keep updated:

a. Announce Meetings

b. Notes/ discussed at meetings

c. Announce events

d. Info/ stories affecting youth

e. Links to Other blogs, websites, calendar

2. St. Peter’s Website:

a. Put links to Youth Group blog, email, and calendar

C. Need to contact:

1. Mr. Howeà living Rosary

2. Fr. Al

a. copy of notes

b. Youth center

3. Joanne Durkinà copy of notes

4. Mr. Hewitt (new principle) to speak at St. Peter School

5. Email for volunteer opportunities at Walk Beyond Disability

6. Rectory office- last year’s funds & putting youth group in bulletin & website

D. Importance of networking/ contacts:

1. Setting up contacts w/ other youth groups and possibility of creating loose association between area youth groups for activities together etc:

a. St. Joes

b. St. Greg’s

c. St. Marguerites’

d. St. Rose

2. St. Peter’s Men’s society/ Women’s guild/ Junior Youth Group/ 9 o’clock ministry for events within the parish

III. Events/Activities- Spiritual & community related events for faith aspect & fun/social events and to get the youth group involved in the parish. Goal- one of each per month.

A. Community Service activities:

1. Walk beyond disability:

a. Oct. 15 10AM. http://www.abilitybeyonddisability.org/giving.cfm?PageID=160&SubPageID=33

b. Participating in walk and/or volunteering (they need 300 volunteers)

c. More to be discussed at next meeting

2. 30-Hour Famine:

a. With other youth group(s)/St. Greg’s?

b. Lent/ spring 2007 on a 1^st Friday (adoration during lock in)

3. Dorothy Day:

a. working weekend afternoon- December?

4. Food/clothing drive for Thanksgiving

B. Parish Activities:

1. Kids Christmas party:

a. Organizing possibly with Jr. Youth Group

2. Bingo- Mrs. Barlow Hansen will check

3. Coffee Hour:

a. Sponsor coffee hour one month.

4. Parish Picnic:

a. To have youth group seen by parish at major parish event

5. Yard work around church, rectory, school

6. Any other upcoming large-scale parish events to show youth presence.

C. Spiritual Activities:

1. Steubenville East Conference:

a. July 2007

2. Fan the Fire Youth Rally:

a. Excellent local youth event

b. August 2007

3. Living Rosary:

a. Contact Mr. Howe for help

b. October and May

c. Upcoming in October needs to be planned soon- next meeting

4. Group Pilgrimage to Lourdes of Litchfield

5. Other Area monasteries/ Retreats (Day or weekend)

6. First Friday Adoration:

a. once a month- convenient

7. Lenten Activities

8. Guest Speakers

D. Fun activities:

1. Movie night- at theaters/ house/ ‘youth center’

2. Lock in:

a. 1^st Friday for adoration

b. At point when we have a bit larger group

3. Block Party in May w/ Religious Ed let out.

4. Ski trip

5. Bowling

6. Pool- Boston billiards

7. Lake Compounce

a. 25 people for discount

b. Spring/ summer

8. Haunted Corn Maze

9. Local Sporting event- Trashers/Westcon

10. Concerts/Playsà Rockthesound.com

E. Fundraising:

1. Bake sale outside/ downstairs w/ coffee Hour

2. Car washà spring @ stop and shop

IV. Recruiting New Members:

A. Speaking:

1. Grades 8-12

2. Speak at CCD/ Religious Education & St. Peter School:

a. Mrs. Raval will help

b. 7^th graders to inform but not to join

c. 8^th grade to inform and to join

3. Speak at Masses

a. After Communion- once we re-establish ourselves.

B. New Members:

1. Everyone bring a friend next meeting

a. Even just for new people to see what we are all about- no commitment.

b. great way to double numbers quickly

VI. Meetings:

A. Agenda for meetings:

1. Open with prayer

2. business- upcoming events

3. Discussion of Gospel/readings/meditation of the day

4. current/relevant events

5. Saints/learn new prayerà lifeteen.com

6. Closing prayer

B. Time & place:

1. Every Other Sunday, 11:45- 1:00 à following 10:30 Mass

2. Place to be determined

D. Next meeting:

1. 10/1/06: 11:45- 1:00

2. Tentative Agenda:

a. Bring a friend

b. Walk Beyond Disability

c. Living Rosary

d. Movie night

e. BRING $5 IF YOU HAVE NOT ALREADY DONE SO.

New begginings for the Youth Group

2006-09-03T18:07:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone had a restful and relaxing summer. As the new school year begins the John Paul II youth Group will start meeting again. However we will be meeting without our director Mr. Howe, who is no longer with St. Peter's Church. The youth group wishes to thank Mr. Howe for all the time, work, and effort he put into getting the youth group going and sustaining it. We also wish Mr. Howe the best of luck in his future endeavors.

The group will be meeting next weekend to discuss where we go from here. We assure everyone that the youth group will continue. However, we do NEED more members and so if you yourself or anyone you know grades 8-12 has any interest in joining please email jpiiyouth@gmail.com. You can come sit in on a meeting and check us out. We also need a volunteer director who preferably has some experience in youth ministry.

The youth group is going to be starting out its second year small and low key as we try to get new members and a director. That is not to say we will not be doing anything:

"Don't forget that, on earth, every big thing has had a small beginning. What is born big is monstrous and dies."
-St. Josemaria Escriva, The Way 821

We will be putting a flyer in the bulletin in the coming weeks so please look for that.
The blog will now be regularly updated so please stop back soon.

Peace

30 Hour Famine- A Success

2006-06-11T10:13:00.000-04:00

Greetings all:

The 30 hour famine, which the youth group sponsored last weekend, June 2-3, was a great event and turned out to be a success. The event was a good time but also a very spiritual experience. 10 youth participated and we hope to raise at least $300 to fight world hunger. On friday we gathered in the parish hall, went over an outline of the next 30 hours and then began the famine activites. We then proceded to play Tribe (a game about tribes in Africa and world hunger), have free time, night prayer, and adoration and benediction in the church at midnight. Up by 9:30 the next morning, we did yard work around the church grounds as our community service project. The afternoon included the conclusion of Tribe and Mass. After Mass, with one hour to go in the famine, we went to Walgreens, each with $1 (the amount of money needed to feed one person for one day in 3rd world countries) to buy as much food as we could to donate to Dorthy Day. We then came back to the parish hall to break the fast and eat. It was a great experience and a big thanks to all who participated and who made it happen (specifically MR. Howe and Deacon Howe. )

peace

-Kieran

30 Hour Famine

2006-05-21T13:20:00.000-04:00

What: World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine- Fasting 30 hours to raise money for the starving in the world. 30 hours count for community service

Who: Any youth (age 13-18) who wishes to fast to save lives.

When: June 2^nd to June 3^rd

Where: St. Peter Church Danbury CT.

Why: To serve and help our brothers and sisters in Christ who are in need.

How can I support this sweetness?

All participants must email jpiiyouth@gmail.com stating they will participate by May 23. All Participants must attend a meeting at 6pm on May 30 at St. Peter School with a signed permission slip (participants will receive permission slip by email)

Go to www.30hourfamine.com for more info.

Block Party Results

2006-05-10T15:36:00.000-04:00

I am happy to announce that our block party was a huge success and was much better than last time. Many people came out to enjoy the food, company, and fun. Everyone seemed to enjoy the Rudetones and all had a great time. We raised $70 from donations. We're hoping to have another block party in the fall. Some pics are posted bellow. Tonight is the living Rosary at the church at 7pm. There is also Benediction and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, as well as enrollments of the Brown Scapular. I hope all members can attend. Our next meeting will be one May 21 at 1145. I hope to see everyone there. Have a great week.

peace
-Kieran

I am happy to announce that our block party was a huge success and was much better than last time. Many people came out to enjoy the food, company, and fun. Everyone seemed to enjoy the Rudetones and all had a great time. We raised $70 from donations. We're hoping to have another block party in the fall. Some pics are posted bellow. Tonight is the living Rosary at the church at 7pm. There is also Benediction and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, as well as enrollments of the Brown Scapular. I hope all members can attend. Our next meeting will be one May 21 at 1145. I hope to see everyone there. Have a great week.

Bakesale Results

2006-04-30T20:42:00.000-04:00

Greetings:

I am happy to announce we made just over $100 from the bakesale this weekend. I would like to thank all those who participated in it by baking something, working at the sale, or purchasing something. We will try and reschedual the car wash sometime soon. In the mean-time our Block Party is next Sunday, May 7th. Anyone and everyone is invited. Get your friends, family etc. There will be food, music (my band, The Rudetones), and games. Please help us make this a big success by spreading the word and coming out from 11 AM to 1 PM next sunday.

Peace

-Kieran

No Carwash......Sorry guys.

2006-04-28T23:20:00.000-04:00

Right, so I just learned that theres going to be a parade on main street this sunday at the exact that we were supposed to have our car wash. That means no car wash.... HOWEVER, the bakesale is still a go. Everyone needs to bake some stuff and drop it off at the church, preferably tommorw at 1 PM. We will be selling after the 400 530 (on saturday) 730 900 and 1030(on sunday) masses. I ask that all members be present at the sale after the 1030 on sunday and try and work one of masses. To all non members: please get your family and freinds (and self) to the parish hall this weekend to buy some good baked stuff. Thanks and God bless

-Kieran

First Post

2006-04-25T21:01:00.000-04:00

Greetings:

This is the first post on the newly created John Paul II Youth of St. Peter's blog. Feel free to email us at jpIIyouth@gmail.com

More info will come when I get time to post it. We have lots of stuff going on. Please check back frequently.

Peace

-Kieran