ArchKCK Youth Ministry

Professional Resources for Youth Ministry

Creating a Youth Ministry Schedule

CALENDARING

Creating A Youth Ministry Schedule

The key to a successful youth ministry calendar is maintaining balance and consistency. Consistency means holding weekly meetings rather than bi-weekly or monthly, as successful programs consistently show that weekly gatherings are essential for building a strong, lasting ministry. While the baseline provided can help you get started, it’s important to tailor your calendar to fit your specific schedule and the needs of your parish. This personalized approach will ensure your youth ministry thrives.

Step 1: Start with a Blank Calendar and Pencil
Begin by visualizing the entire year on paper. This initial step makes it easier to plan comprehensively. You can transfer to a digital format later, but for now, use paper. 

Step 2: Schedule Foundational Ministry and Events
First, plan the foundational events such as high school nights, junior high, and Confirmation nights. You don’t need to decide on the curriculum yet; just mark the dates. For example, if High School nights are on Sundays, write “High School” on every Sunday from kickoff until the summer schedule begins. Do the same for Junior High Nights. Exclude dates like the weeks around Christmas, New Year’s, Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and Super Bowl Sunday, when gatherings are typically not held.

Step 3: Plan Trainings and Meetings
Recognize the importance of involving other adults and plan meetings accordingly:
  • Volunteer meetings
  • Fundraiser planning meetings
  • Retreat planning meetings
  • Other necessary adult meetings
Step 4: Schedule Sacramental Formation
If you handle Sacramental preparation like Confirmation or RCIA for teens, plan this next. Choose days for Confirmation gatherings, such as Wednesdays and Thursdays, and include these in your calendar. Additionally, schedule:
  • Parent and Sponsor Meetings
  • Liturgical rituals
  • Confirmation rehearsals
  • The Confirmation celebration itself
Even if the exact date for the Confirmation Celebration is uncertain, plan for your top three choices and mark these on your calendar.

Step 5: Dreaming and Expanding
Expand your planning beyond weekly gatherings to include various events and ministry opportunities:
  • High School and Junior High Retreats or Lock-Ins
  • Mission trips
  • Diocesan youth rallies
  • Summer conferences
  • Summer camps
  • Social events
  • Bible studies
  • Prayer nights and adoration nights
  • Service opportunities

If you are looking for assistance on creating your annual calendar for youth ministry, feel free to reach out the youth office! We’d love to meet up with you. 

ArchKCK Youth Office

12615 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, Kansas 66109
913-980-7024
kylek@archkck.org

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