Teenagers in middle school are in a tough situation - they are too old to be called children, yet not old enough for cars and jobs. Young teens can be a challenging age group - they need effective programming that is active and engaging, but still provides catechetical substance.

The good news is that middle school youth often have more free time than high school youth have. Now is our last "best chance" at helping them become excited about their faith. Teens who become connected to their faith community in middle school tend to make time in order to stay connected during their high school years.

The bad news is that middle school ministry is "new territory" to many churches and parishes. Many of the "maps" they have used before don't help much. Old maps don't work well in new territory. Young teens cannot be treated like children, but they are not ready for the activities and content of high school life, either.

Parishes and schools dedicated to finding creative ways to reach and teach this specific age group are usually looking for "alternative models." The Archdiocese of Milwaukee regularly offers events for young teens and gatherings for the adults who minister with young teens. The Early Adolescent Alternative Models Newsletter is published every two months, and summarizes the main events, services, and information currently offered by the Archdiocese of Milwaukee.

For the current copy of the Early Adolescent Alternative Models Newsletter, click on the link below.