By: Billy O'Regan
The National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM) is an organization that provides leadership and a place for youth ministry collaboration in the US. NFCYM is best known for its three big events: NCYC, NCCYM, and Holy Fire. Less well-known (but just as important) are the various ways that NFCYM provides formation and support for diocesan youth ministry leaders and others invested in our youth.
In my years serving at the TEC Conference, participating in NFCYM’s Annual Membership Meeting (AMM) has been a highlight for me. While this gathering of diocesan and other youth ministry leaders from around the country is a working meeting, I find it to be so much more. At AMM, I have found a reliable and life-giving source of fellowship among other Catholic youth ministry leaders.
This year’s meeting (February 4-7, 2019) was attended by more than 160 diocesan directors, organizational leaders, and others. The gathering included rich prayer experiences and excellent formation opportunities related to inclusive and multicultural ministry. Smaller working groups made progress on important projects, including NCYC and NCCYM. As the chair of the AMM hospitality team, I helped to make participants feel welcomed and connected. This also gives TEC additional exposure and brands us as a friendly and welcoming ministry. TEC was also invited to organize an evening prayer; Steve Angrisano, Karl Dolson (LouTEC), Alison Tate (TEC of Central Texas,) and Rick Cheek (Sunflower TEC) helped me to lead our prayer service, which was warmly received.
For me, the greatest value in participating in this annual gathering is the time I have with diocesan leaders. This year, I was able to connect with several diocesan directors who already have TEC in their diocese. These visits help to strengthen their connection to the TEC Conference and make me aware of the struggles and successes that some of our affiliate TEC communities experience. I was also able to meet with diocesan directors who are searching for a ministry like TEC to serve their young people. Exploring “what TEC is” and “what TEC is not” with these ministry leaders is a great way to broaden TEC’s horizons. The most notable series of conversations revolved around the dream of bringing TEC to the Diocese of Cheyenne in Wyoming. Please pray for this project and let us know if you are aware of “TEC people” who already live in the diocese!
Because this year’s AMM met in Colorado Springs, I had the opportunity for two important side visits. First, I was able to visit with the leaders of the TEC community at the United States Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. This community has been on the grounds of the Academy for more than a decade and was getting ready for TEC #36 at the time of our meeting. They have been a little disconnected from the TEC Conference in recent years, and this face-to-face opportunity was very helpful. It was no surprise to find joyful, competent, and faith filled leaders at the Air Force Academy TEC! Finally, before flying home, I was also able to share a meal with Ron and Rebecca Marinelli of Rocky Mountain TEC. This community has been dormant in recent years but seems poised for a comeback if a couple of logistical issues can be surmounted! It was great to brainstorm and share some encouraging words with a dedicated couple. I am always grateful for the people my travels lead me to and am especially grateful for a productive and fruitful Annual Membership Meeting.
