St. Anthony Parish

The Saint Anthony Youth Ministry is a Catholic youth group consisting of diverse junior high and high school teens. We gather to not only learn and grow from God’s love, Jesus’ teachings, and each other, but to meet the needs of youth and empower them to share their gifts. We celebrate the gift of faith through family, community, friendship, service and fun. Teens of all faiths and ethnic backgrounds are welcome to a safe environment to meet new people. They learn about living as disciples and serving others in need. Through personal and spiritual growth, events and activities, teens share their faith and gifts with community. As members, we continue Jesus’ work by sharing God’s message of hope, love, peace and kindness with our families, friends, community and one another.

SAYM gathers twice a month for high school youth meetings, once a week for junior high youth meetings, and other occasions for special events and activities. During youth meetings we socialize and learn to be disciples of God through faith-sharing, activities, games, and prayer services. Through these activities, we relate God’s lessons to everyday life situations. Teens are encouraged to participate in the liturgical life as liturgical ministers (ushers, Eucharistic ministers, choir, and lectors), as well as parish and local community life. In the past, teens have helped with Loaves and Fishes of Sacramento, Saint Anthony’s annual parish festival and crab feed, and many more events throughout the year. The youth ministry also consists of a student leadership (Core Team), Adult Advisors, and the Youth Ministry Coordinator.

Youth group has an age-old stereotype attached to it of youth taking turns reading the Bible and singing hymns in a circle. This day in age, there is a fair balance between faith and fun. Sure, SAYM takes field trips, plays games, and has social gatherings. Yet, the group also shares spiritual moments through prayer services, lock-ins, retreats and community service; at times we learn of God’s teachings without realizing it. Building community and applying lessons to everyday life does not need to be boring! Our activities are hands on and interactive so teens will be able to gain support and develop friendships outside of their academic environment.