Evangelizing Our Youth in the Digital Age

Jesus traveled nearly every day to communicate his message of God’s love for all people. He spoke to people, particularly those who were marginalized, in their language. Many youths today feel marginalized because the Church does not speak to them in their language. While Jesus and his message are the content of our evangelization, we need to find new methods of communication in the digital age to reach today’s youth.

Pope Francis in his Apostolic Exhortation Christus Vivit writes: “Anyone called to be a parent, pastor or guide to young people must have the farsightedness to appreciate the little flame that continues to burn, the fragile reed that is shaken but not broken.”

In this Catholic Update, Fr. Wehrley reveals that while youth heavily use digital media, they still want face-to-face, personal contact. He proposes listening to their spiritual needs by reaching out to them through youth gatherings, Bible studies, event tabling, small group catechesis, and a personal invitation to serve as a lay minister.