Thinking Faith S02E08 Youth Ministry: Making a Mess with Michelle Braden and Braden Kuntz - Part 1

In this part one of two episodes, Deacon Eric and guests Michelle Braden and Braden Kuntz from the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry discuss the impact of Pope Francis' approach to youth ministry. Commemorating Pope Francis' passing, they explore his efforts to reach the most marginalized in the church, including young people, and highlight the significance of creating spaces for authentic spiritual engagement. The discussion underscores the evolving challenges and opportunities in youth ministry, emphasizing the importance of relational accompaniment and the continued relevance of church traditions in a rapidly changing world. 01:02 Podcast Setup and Hosts Introduction 01:28 Reflecting on Recent Events 02:00 Youth and Young Adult Ministry 02:23 Pope Francis' Focus on Youth 03:26 The Synod on Youth and Vocations 05:37 Challenges in Youth Ministry 09:56 The Importance of Accompaniment 18:34 Avoiding the "Saviour Complex" 18:55 Transformative Relationships and Humility 19:19 Youth Faith and Spiritual Gifts 22:36 Pope Francis' Impact and Legacy 29:42 Young Adults and Church Traditions 33:18 Challenges and Opportunities in Ministry 37:26 Concluding Thoughts

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