By Dr. Bob Rice.
The Catholic Church in United States has always been concerned with passing on the faith to her young. Youth ministry has faced many obstacles—the sexual abuse scandals of the early 21st century being only the latest. Every challenge has brought opportunity for innovation which has shaped our understanding of what youth ministry is and what we need to do to help young people become joyful disciples of Jesus Christ. We will examine the "ups and downs" of Catholic youth ministry, as well as address the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead.