The National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry has extended membership to Young Life as one of only a few ecumenical organizations it includes.
The high-level recognition this month from NFCYM, the largest association of Catholic youth ministers, promises to help both organizations increase visibility and advocacy.
“I am thrilled to welcome Young Life as NFCYM's newest organizational member,” said Christina Lamas, executive director of NFCYM. “Their long-standing commitment to walking with young people in faith deeply resonates with our mission. I believe this is the beginning of a lasting and meaningful relationship. As we move forward, I am encouraged by the opportunity to learn from one another and explore new ways to accompany and support young people in faith.”
The mission of NFCYM is to support and strengthen those who accompany young people as they encounter and follow Jesus Christ.
Membership in NFCYM doesn’t indicate a change in the mission or methods of Young Life. Membership will increase Young Life’s visibility in Catholic dioceses and parishes, sharing the mission of Young Life with potential volunteers, staff and donors who are Catholic.
NFCYM gathers and equips a network of 650 members, which includes Catholic parish youth ministers, Catholic diocesan youth ministry directors, Catholic youth outreach ministries, Catholic universities and even a few ecumenical organizations similar to Young Life that serve the larger body of Christ. One way NFCYM supports youth ministry workers is through its annual event called Exchange, which gathers up to 300 youth ministry leaders.
NFCYM also serves Catholic teens directly. Each year, it hosts the National Catholic Youth Conference, which attracts more than 17,000 teenagers.
This significant step solidifies a growing relationship with NFCYM. In the past, Young Life staff have provided presentations for NFCYM webinars and have led interactive exhibits for NFCYM youth conferences.
