RENEW THEOLOGY ON TAP MANUAL

Transcription

1 RENEW THEOLOGY ON TAP MANUAL

2 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL Contents 0 Welcome to RENEW ToT 0.1 Introduction 1 The RENEW ToT Team: Roles and Responsibilities 1.1 RENEW ToT Core Team 2 Starting RENEW ToT: the Role of the Parish 2.1 Pray and Advocate 2.2 Hosting or Co-sponsoring RENEW ToT 3 RENEW ToT Timelines 3.1 Suggested Timeline for the RENEW ToT Core Team 3.2 Suggested Timeline for the RENEW ToT Coordinator 4 RENEW ToT Speakers 4.1 Guidelines for Selecting Speakers 4.2 Speaker Information Form 4.3 Speaker Acceptance Form 4.4 Letter to Accepted Speakers 5 RENEW ToT Invitation Strategies 5.1 The Value and Importance of RENEW ToT 5.2 RENEW ToT Invitation Strategies 5.3 RENEW ToT Invitation Techniques 6 The RENEW ToT Venue 6.1 Choosing a Location and Venue 7 The RENEW ToT Event 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event 7.2 Assigning Tasks 7.3 Practicing Hospitality 7.4 Preparing for a RENEW ToT Event 7.5 Proximate Preparation 7.6 Speaker Hospitality RENEW ToT MANUAL >>> Contents

3 8 Evaluation and Follow-up 8.1 Evaluating the RENEW ToT Experience 8.2 The Value and Importance of Small Christian Communities 8.3 Small Christian Communities: A Primary Follow-Up 8.4 Other Follow-Up Opportunities Appendix A Terms and Conditions of Use Notice to User 1 Terms and Conditions for Implementing RENEW Theology on Tap 2 Copyright Terms and Conditions for use of RENEW Theology on Tap Publications and Web-based Resources 3 General Terms and Conditions This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Contents RENEW ToT MANUAL

4 RENEW TOT Manual Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 0 Welcome to RENEW Theology on Tap 0.1 Introduction Section 0 Welcome to RENEWToT

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6 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT Manual 0.1 Introduction Welcome to RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW Theology on Tap (RENEW ToT) is outreach to and collaboration with young adult Catholics in pursuit of spiritual growth. It is a method of invitation, based on a spirit of hospitality, which creates a space for people in their 20s and 30s to explore how faith in Christ can speak to their circumstances. Since its creation in the Archdiocese of Chicago in 1981, this program has proven to be a successful vehicle for reaching young adults interested in learning more about their faith, coming together to share community, and feeling welcomed and valued in the Catholic Church. Recently RENEW International has been entrusted to carry on the mission of Theology on Tap, and the RENEW staff has been working diligently to develop it as part of a more comprehensive young adult ministry. The This is the complete edition of the. Its primary use is for local parish or cluster implementation, but it can be easily adapted for diocesan-level outreach. In addition, RENEW ToT can be used as a stand-alone event, or as a part of a more comprehensive young adult ministry process; the manual contains information on both. Regardless of the format of your RENEW ToT, the Manual is relevant for all who are working to make RENEW ToT a successful and enriching experience for young adults. The Manual is not meant to be read from cover to cover in one sitting, but rather as a resource which offers not only how to information but also the underlying pastoral principles that should guide the implementation of RENEW ToT. RENEW International is renowned for its expertise in implementing spiritual renewal; this Manual puts that expertise at the service of RENEW ToT. Reaching Out to Our Young Adults Through the use of this Manual and with the support and guidance of the staff of RENEW International, you will be reaching out to and working with a valued part of our Catholic community women and men, single and married, in their 20s and 30s our young adults! Young adults can sometimes be overlooked to the extent that even their absence goes unnoticed. Properly implemented, RENEW ToT becomes a means of evangelization, bringing this population into view. It reaches young adults where they are, while inviting them to discover how faith can inform and give sense to their everyday lives. RENEW ToT is a way for dioceses and parishes to discover (or rediscover) these young adults, and to invite them into deeper involvement in the Catholic community and all that it does. >>> Section 0.1 Introduction

7 RENEW ToT is structured around a series of events centering on relevant faith topics of interest to young adults. These events can be held in a restaurant, a parish hall, a coffeehouse, even in a bar; places where young adults already are comfortable and feel welcome. These events feature an engaging speaker presenting a relevant theological topic, time for discussion, faith sharing, and community building. Theology on Tap is often used as a stand-alone series of events, as explained above; however, Theology on Tap works best as a component to a more comprehensive young adult ministry process. Theology on Tap is meant to be an invitation for young adults to learn more about their faith and to share in the Catholic community, and should serve as a springboard for other young adult initiatives in the parish, diocese, campus, or other organization. Theology on Tap at its best is a piece in a broader comprehensive young adult ministry that includes small faith communities, and opportunities for retreats, service projects, and other activities that will draw Catholics in their 20s and 30s together. Thank you for your interest in serving the young adults of our Catholic community. Please know that the staff of RENEW International is praying for you and is available to serve you by telephone, , or in person. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 0.1 Introduction

8 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 1 The RENEW ToT Teams: Roles and Responsibilities 1.1 RENEW ToT Core Team Section 1 Roles and Responsibilities

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10 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 1.1 The RENEW ToT Core Team Establishing a Core Team Finding young adult leaders can be one of the most challenging parts of the RENEW ToT process. It might be the case that members of the parish staff are unaware of young adults, single and married, in their 20s and 30s who might be appropriate. However, just because young adults are not banging down the doors of the church does not mean they are not there! The right people might be a phone call away: the grown child or grandchild of an active parishioner; a young adult who comes frequently to Mass but is not in direct contact with parish staff; a relative or coworker of a young adult who might not be a frequent churchgoer but still has a deep-seated and sincere faith. Characteristics of Potential Core Team Members The Core Team should consist of adults in their 20s and 30s. This is a ministry for and by young adults, so the team should reflect the diversity of the young adult population to be reached. Here are some traits to look for in your core community candidates: Humility Core community leaders are not the "answer people," they are creating the space for their peers to engage the sacred. Thus, they need to be people who are open to other's experiences and true conversation through which both parties can be changed. A leader of humility expects to learn from others, rather than to use the ministry as a forum to preach the "correct" way to respond to God. Hospitable Welcome, or a spirit of hospitality, can sometimes be seen as a "one time event." Yet, in a truly welcoming person, each person is valued, and there is special attention to welcoming the stranger not only the stranger in the midst of the group, but the stranger who may need attention in the wider community. Charisma At least one of your core team members should have an engaging personality, someone whose enthusiasm and acumen can be a guiding force for the group. This person becomes very important during invitation, both as one who can invite others, but also in training other people to be inviters. Sensitive A good core community member should be sensitive to the needs of those in the community both in the wider community and in his/her small community. He/she should be able to recognize and respond to the different situations that may arise: people in pain, absence from the group, particularly shy people, and situations that need to be referred to a professional. >>> Section 1.1 The RENEW ToT Core Team

11 Good Listener Core community members should be people who either are good listeners, or are open to developing good listening skills. This often means setting aside one's own thoughts or agendas in order to focus completely on the person speaking. It also means being aware of one's own and others non-verbal communication. Challenging Community to Growth No matter how long the parish has been actively involved with young adult ministry, there is constant need to evaluate the process and challenge one another to growth. Good core community members seek out those who are not represented in the groups. They are constantly evaluating the process and challenging one another to quality outreach and spiritual development. Respectful of and Representative of different populations (socio-economic, ethnicity, married, single, with or without children) Core community leaders should be those who are receptive to different personalities, genders, ethnicities, sexual orientations, ecclesiologies, expressions of spirituality, and points of view. All should feel welcomed and the core community should be the instrument of inclusion, rather than exclusion. The more representative your core community, the greater the reach it will have when inviting others to become involved. Diversity on your core community will also allow for more fruitful brainstorming sessions. Motivated People A successful core community should also be composed of steadfast people who will see a movement through. They should be people who take initiative and can function without a large amount of guidance. A. Finding Young Adult Leaders The following are some strategies that might be used to identify potential young adult leaders: At Mass the pastor, parish staff, and volunteers should look out for young adults. After Mass approach them, give them a friendly greeting and ask if they would be interested in getting more involved *. Talk with active parishioners. Ask if they know any potential young adult leaders. One could be their child, grandchild, coworker, or friend. Review parish lists. If there has been an active youth group there might be people who are now of the appropriate age to join young adult ministry. Young adults may be teaching in the parish religious education classes. Look for young adults in RCIA, social justice or service ministries, marriage preparation, and baptism and/or confirmation catechists or sponsors. Offer an opportunity for young adults to give their contact information, or for parents, grandparents, friends, and relatives to provide young adult contact information. Two simple but effective ideas to try: set up a bulletin board near the entrance to the church where contact information can be left. request that for each week in the course of one month, the parish Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Section 1.1 The RENEW ToT Core Team

12 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap bulletin run an announcement to young adults to send their contact information; in the same way, Mass participants could also be invited to submit names of young adults they know who might be interested in RENEW ToT. Call the campus ministers of local colleges and universities. Are there any recently graduated seniors still living in the area who might be interested in connecting to a local parish? Be creative. Where do you most commonly see young adults? * NOTE - When choosing potential young adult leaders we suggest that someone from the parish staff meet with each potential leader to help him/her discern where his/her gifts lie. If the person displays sufficient leadership qualities, consider recommending them to the leadership team. However, if the person does not possess the qualities needed for this leadership role, it is better to invite them to the ToT events rather than the leadership team. B. Deciding Who to Invite as Core Team Members The parish staff member(s) chosen to act as liaison(s) to the Core Team arranges a meeting, which may include pastors, parish staff, and key parish leaders. Each individual is invited to come to the meeting with a list of candidates Conduct a brainstorming session to discuss the candidates discerning if they have the qualities needed to be part of the Core Team. Draw up a short list of approximately fifteen individuals, in order to form a Team of between six and ten. Experience shows that it is very helpful when the pastor himself invites the key people individually. Individuals who have the strongest chance of getting the other Core Team prospects to agree to participate would make the remaining invitations. It could be based on friendships; being part of a ministry together; being neighbors; etc. Be discrete about sharing names of people to be invited with the person whom you are approaching as a potential member of the Team. It can complicate matters and prove difficult if people base their own participation upon the participation or absence of others. Allow for personal discernment. The inviters should be prepared to explain and discuss the following with their assigned candidates: the RENEW ToT Process: goals, program, and time commitment the value of the process to the parish and to individual parishioners an overview of the Core Team and its role the specific reason(s) why that person was selected as a candidate for membership From the responses, determine if you have enough individuals to form the Team. If not, generate more names and invitations. When there is a sufficient number to form the Team, select a person to be the Core Team leader. Have the Team Leader call the Team members to welcome them and to verify the date and time of the first meeting. Section 1.1 The RENEW ToT Core Team

13 C. Roles and Responsibilities of the Core Team The following summarizes the major areas for which the RENEW ToT Core team is responsible. Stage 1: The First Two Months Meet weekly with the core community for six weeks to reflect on scripture, build community, and plan the first Theology on Tap series (1.5 hours/week) Complete minor assigned tasks throughout this six weeks to ensure the implementation of Theology on Tap series. Personally invite friends and acquaintances to Theology on Tap Stage 2: The Theology on Tap Series Attend each Theology on Tap event and contribute to a hospitable environment through a variety of roles: emcee, registration table, welcoming committee, etc. (2 hours weekly for four weeks if Theology on Tap is held in a four-week series.) Contribute to small group discussion at each Theology on Tap gathering Encourage participants to be a part of a small community and other follow-up activities After each event, contact assigned attendees and thank them for coming Stage 3: Follow-up Continue to invite attendees and other young adults to participate in small Christian communities Consider co-leading a small Christian community for six to eight weeks of faith sharing (1.5 hours/week) Replenish the core community by inviting new members Plan and implement other follow-up activities on a regular basis Edition This edition (# )of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Section 1.1 The RENEW ToT Core Team

14 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 2 Starting RENEW ToT: the Role of the Parish 2.1 Pray and Advocate 2.2 Hosting or Co-sponsoring RENEW ToT Section 2 Starting RENEW ToT

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16 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 2.1 Pray and Advocate The support of pastors and pastoral staffs is crucial to the success of RENEW ToT. With your prayers, active support and hospitality, your parish can make an impact upon your young adults the present and future of the Church. The young adults you impact will add new life and vitality to your parish community. Pray and advocate for young adults involved with RENEW ToT Pray Pray for the success of RENEW ToT, so that, in the words of our bishops, young adults will become more connected to Jesus Christ, the Church, (...) the mission of the Church in the world and to a peer community in which their faith is nurtured and strengthened. Invite all ministry groups and the pastoral staff to pray. Set aside specific time for personal prayer for this process. Ask the parishioners, from the pulpit, in the bulletin, and so on, to pray for the young adults participating in RENEW ToT and small faith-sharing communities. Advocate Be a spokesperson for RENEW ToT. Priests and parish staff members have a unique opportunity to invite young adults to be an active part of the RENEW ToT initiative. Work to create a parish environment where young adults will feel welcome. Announce the RENEW ToT program with conviction and commitment. Express a positive attitude in all you say either privately or publicly about the program and the value it can bring to the parish. After all, in reaching out to its young people, the parish is fulfilling part of its essential mission. Give public recognition to the value that young adults bring to the parish in greater vibrancy and fresh perspectives. Section 2 Starting RENEW ToT

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18 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 2.2 Hosting or Co-sponsoring RENEW ToT Events Hosting RENEW ToT The host parish is given the opportunity to implement the RENEW ToT process. A parish staff person (or appropriate other) is chosen to be directly responsible for the RENEW ToT program as coordinator. A parish staff person should enlist the support and assistance of potential cosponsoring parishes if appropriate. (See paragraph on relationship of co-sponsoring parishes below.) The host parish establishes a RENEW ToT Core Team. The Core Team should include the host parish staff person, representatives from neighboring (cosponsoring) parishes, if appropriate, and other young adults (including those who have no affiliation to a particular parish) to implement the program. The host parish establishes the budget that is needed for RENEW ToT events. Included in the budget is the cost of speakers (suggested $125 per speaker). The host parish ensures that the parish council is kept informed of RENEW ToT activities. The members of the parish council may be able to assist in areas such as awareness raising around the parish and funding. The host parish should assist the Core Team with the following: selecting and reserving an appropriate venue (parish hall/restaurant/bar/student center). printing local flyers, posters, publicizing the program in the parish bulletins, local press, and direct mailings to young adults. Relationship of co-sponsoring parishes to the host parish (if appropriate) Co-sponsoring parishes should appoint a staff person as liaison with the Core Team. Young adult representatives from the neighboring parishes should be chosen to be part of the Core Team. The staff liaison and young adult contact should work together and draw up a list of the young adults in their own parish. Parish bulletin announcements should be coordinated with the host parish so that all the parishes in the cluster simultaneously announce and encourage attendance at RENEW ToT. >>> Section 2 Starting RENEW ToT

19 Co-sponsoring parishes should budget an appropriate amount of money to help cover the costs of RENEW ToT. The co-sponsoring parish might consider hosting a post RENEW ToT gathering of their young adult participants in their own rectory or parish facility after the program is completed. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 2.2 Hosting or Co-sponsoring RENEW ToT

20 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 3 RENEW ToT Timelines 3.1 Suggested Timeline for the RENEW ToT Core Team 3.2 Suggested Timeline for the RENEW ToT Coordinator Section 3 RENEW ToT

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22 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 3.1 Suggested Timeline for the RENEW ToT Core Teams Three months prior to RENEW ToT events: The RENEW ToT Core Team should begin developing a master list of young adults to be invited to and contacted about the program. This list should contain name and contact information. Decide if there is a specific audience of young adults which your team wishes to reach. If the parish has a website, add a prominent link for Young Adult Ministry and a new page for RENEW ToT. If the parish does not have a website, obtaining a domain name is quite inexpensive and easy. Many young adults have some web experience and should be able to create a web page inexpensively. Contact local campus ministry programs and request lists of recently graduated students who may still live in the area, or of graduate students who might be interested in the program. Decided on the duration of your series. Will it be weekly for a month? Every other week for a few months? Or perhaps, a monthly ongoing series? Each can be successful. Decided on what format will be best for the core team and young adults in your area. Ten weeks to two months prior to RENEW ToT events: If you are doing a weekly series for a month(the most typical format used), decide on four talk topics. Remember: topics must address the needs of a searcher audience those who are looking to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of their faith. RENEW Theology on Tap is a first step; in-depth exploration can come later. See Section 4 for more information. Brainstorm and decide on four speakers. Please see Section 4 for more information on selecting speakers. Decide on dates for the RENEW ToT series. If it has not yet been determined by the parish, decide on the compensation for speakers (usually $125 per night) and how it is to be funded. >>> Section 3.1 ToT Core Team Timeline

23 Select an appropriate venue. This should be a place where young adults are already congregating in your area. The top priority is a welcoming, comfortable, and popular environment. See Section 6. Simple announcements should be prepared for insertion in the Sunday bulletin. Ensure that members of the parish staff are informed as to details and general purpose and value of RENEW ToT events; they need to be equipped to answer any questions raised. Six weeks to one month prior to RENEW ToT events: Construct and begin to implement a promotion plan. See Section 5 and the following: Draft an inviting young adults to RENEW Theology on Tap. Use the master list you ve created. You might consider using Evite.com. Design and create a poster. You must include the RENEW Theology on Tap logo on all publicity (which can be downloaded from our web resources library on our member website). There are flyer templates in the web resources library as well. Formulate a more formal bulletin announcement. Send this to the parish staff member in charge of the bulletin. If the pastor has a weekly column in the bulletin, he might consider mentioning RENEW ToT and how important young adults are to the parish. Develop other creative promotion strategies. Where else can your core community get the word out about your series? Newspapers? Magazines? Television? Website? Begin personal invitation. The most effective form of invitation is personal invitation. See Section 5 for invitation strategies and techniques. If you have not done so already, confirm the dates, venue, and speakers. In the weeks immediately preceding RENEW ToT events: Continue personal invitation and promotional activities. Have young adults give announcements from the pulpit inviting young adults to the series. Contact your parish secretary to make sure she/he has detailed information concerning RENEW ToT. A parish secretary may be the first point of contact for a new young adult who is interested in the program. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 3.1 ToT Core Team Timeline >>>

24 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Assign tasks for the Core Team to perform during the RENEW ToT events. See Section 7 for a detailed list of tasks and duties. If applicable, decide which Core Team members will lead post-tot small Christian communities comprised of people who attend the RENEW Theology on Tap events and those from your parish(es). There must be at least four leaders willing to do this work. These leaders will be paired and they will choose their topic and RENEW faith-sharing materials in the coming weeks. If more choose to facilitate small communities, more groups can be offered to allow for diversity in days and times of meetings. See Section 8 for more information. Create and secure materials needed for the nights of the events: directional signs, registration cards, evaluation forms, information flyers, invitations to follow-up activities, etc. During the RENEW ToT event series: Prepare a series of bulletin announcements. Each week the bulletin should feature an article about the previous week s RENEW ToT session, along with an announcement about the topic and speaker for the next week. Attend the events, perform assigned tasks, and practice great hospitality. See Section 7.5 for a detailed list of tasks. If you are offering small Christian communities as a follow-up activity, invite participants to be a part of them immediately following the series. Be sure that participants evaluate their RENEW ToT experience, give suggestions as to desired follow-up activities, and are personally invited to such activities. Immediately following the RENEW ToT event series: If applicable, Core Team members lead small faith-sharing groups. Invite and mentor other young adults who can serve as leaders for follow-up activities and future RENEW ToT events. Meet to evaluate the successes and challenges of the RENEW ToT series. See section 8.1 for more information. Submit the names and contact information of all participants to the local pastor(s). Continue to develop and begin implementing other follow-up activities per the needs and wants of the young adults. See Section 8.3 for ideas and more information. Section 3.1 ToT Core Team Timeline

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26 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 3.2 Suggested Timeline for the RENEW ToT Coordinator As the Coordinator of the process, most of your responsibility will involve mentoring the core community. This will take different forms in each stage. Three to four months prior to RENEW ToT events: Brainstorm members of the Core Team (with other members of the parish staff). Invite core community through personal invitation (with other members of the parish staff). Two months prior to RENEW ToT events: Meet with core community for six weeks of faith sharing or make sure that the meetings are taking place and planning is in progress. Maintain diocesan approval as required for all Theology on Tap speakers. Open all avenues of publicity and invitation in the parish to the core community (secure bulletin announcements, attain pulpit announcements, etc.). Offer available funding when needed. During the RENEW ToT event series: Invite parish leaders to attend. Use the events as publicity for both the parish and parish activities for Catholics in their 20s and 30s. Ensure hospitality at the series events and immediately after. Immediately following the RENEW ToT series: Ensure kick off and timely start of follow-up faith sharing groups or other follow-up activities. Continue to meet with core community as a group to evaluate and to brainstorm and plan follow-up activities. Oversee Core Community members as they invite and mentor other leaders. Section 3.2 RENEW ToT Coordinator Timeline

27 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 4 RENEW ToT Speakers 4.1 Guidelines for Selecting Speakers 4.2 Speaker Information Form 4.3 Speaker Acceptance Form 4.4 Letter to Accepted Speakers Section 4 RENEW ToT Speakers

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29 Edition This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 4.1 Guidelines for Selecting Speakers Speakers are a key component in the success of RENEW ToT. Finding the right person to speak to your audience can be challenging, but it is highly rewarding when you see the fruits of your discernment in a presentation by a skilled and appropriate speaker. A good RENEW ToT speaker is one who has the ability to invite those who may not go to church into an exploration of the Catholic faith, to engage young adults in topics that may not be covered in homilies, and to address themes, situations, and world events important to young adults from a Catholic perspective in a way that inspires and engages them. The final choice of speaker will be determined by the choice of topic/theme, and the speaker s ability to address that in a way appropriate for young adults. Guidelines for Finding Great Speakers: 1. The first choice in speakers is one whom is known personally by the RENEW ToT Core Team. The second choice is a speaker who comes from a known and trustworthy reference. 2. Your diocese may have procedures for choosing public speakers. Make sure you obtain and follow diocesan guidelines. 3. When choosing a speaker, keep in mind the demographics of your particular audience. What is the age of your audience, what is their life situation, where are they in their faith journeys? Are you being sufficiently attentive to racial/ethnic/cultural background? 4. Speakers must have an engaging style. 5. Look for speakers who can give good insights into the Catholic faith, Catholic identity, and moral living. Young adults are hungry for content and stories or examples that are relevant to their lives. 6. There should be a variety of types of speakers: male, female; different ethnicities, different ages; clergy, religious, and lay. However all speakers should have a breadth of experience. a The process for discerning and inviting Speakers The RENEW ToT Coordinator convokes the RENEW ToT Core Team to a meeting, and asks them to bring a list of potential speakers (three to four individuals) who they judge, after prayerful discernment, as appropriate for RENEW ToT. Conduct a brain-storming session to discuss the candidates, analyzing the pros and cons of inviting these people as speakers. The proposer should have had a conversation with the potential speaker and should be able to report the answers to the these kind of questions: >>> Section 4.1 Guidelines for Selecting Speakers

30 What is the speaker s theology? What are they going to proclaim and how they will they proclaim it? The talk should be gospel-driven, resonant with a God of Life and Love, Catholic and Passionate. The talk should not be condemning, or narrow, but inspiring and encouraging. Ask additional questions to determine appropriateness if a speaker appears to be too extreme in their beliefs. What does the speaker know about the topic? If they usually use theological jargon, can they re-express what they mean in a language that young adults with little or no theological background will understand? In addressing a topic within their expertise, what would be the three main points of their presentation? Potential candidates are not just those whose names were brought by the proposees but also any other names that may arise in the conversation. 7. Once you think you have identified a potential speaker, send this person a copy the Speaker Information Form (see Section 4.2) in order to get a sense of the speaker's background and presentation preferences. The form is designed to let the Team approach a potential speaker, verify availability and talk preferences without locking someone into speaking; it also gives the Team time to review the speaker in the discernment process outlined in paragraph 6 above. It may be that unknown potential speakers will contact the parish with interest in speaking at RENEW ToT. The Speaker Information Form is a good first response to an unknown speaker. By collecting these forms you can start a RENEW ToT Speakers Bureau. Keep all Speaker Information Forms even if not used in the first instance, for future events. 8. When deciding upon speakers for any RENEW ToT season, the Speaker Acceptance Form (see Section 4.3) is a useful tool for verifying an approved speaker's availability. Where can Great Speakers be Found? Good speakers can be found on college campuses, Catholic conferences, local parishes, through priests, sisters, brothers, lay ministers, lay leaders, people in business, in education. Keep an open mind and look for people who have something to say that young adults can relate to, and which will be a source of not only reliable information about their faith but also inspiration for them in both their spiritual lives and their everyday lives. This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 4.2 Guidelines for Selecting Speakers

31 Edition This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 4.2 Speaker Information Form RENEW ToT Speaker Information Sheet Please complete and return this form by Wednesday November 19, 2014 Return by regular mail in the enclosed envelope; or by FAX to nnn-nnn-nnnn; or by to Name Address City/State/Zip Work phone Home phone Cell phone Fax SAMPLE When are you available? 1. Suggested theme: 1.1 Presentation title: 1.2 Presentation description: >>> Section 4.2 Speaker Information Form

32 2. Biographical summary: Please provide a brief biography. SAMPLE 3. A photo Sent as JPG file by yes no Print enclosed by regular mail yes no Please return this form in the enclosed envelope as soon as possible. Thank you! This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 4.2 Speaker Information Form

33 Edition This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Name: Address: City/Zip: Home Phone: Work Phone: Fax RENEW TOT MANUAL 4.3 Speaker Acceptance Form RENEW Theology on Tap Yes, No, Cell Phone: Speaker Acceptance Form I will be a speaker for RENEW Theology on Tap. I will not be available to speak during the RENEW Theology on Tap Please indicate the week(s)or date(s) of your availability. Indicate your preference with 1 being your first choice. SAMPLE Send us your presentation title and description for RENEW Theology on Tap. Please include a separate page with the title of your topic and a paragraph describing it for both the RENEW ToT Newsletter and the Young Adult Ministry website. Please return this form via , fax or mail by to: Contact Name & address Phone number Fax number address Section 4.3 Speaker Acceptance Form

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35 Edition This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 4.4 Letter to Accepted Speakers A letter should be sent to speakers once they have agreed to speak at RENEW ToT. The letter should contain details on the format of the night, location and directions to event, time to arrive and general guidelines in forming their talk. Dear nnn, Thank you for agreeing to speak at RENEW Theology on Tap. You were selected because of your ability to communicate effectively and speak with young adults, and because of your expertise on your given subject. We appreciate the time and effort you put into your presentation and assure you that even in the short time allotted you will make an impact on the group! As you prepare your presentation please keep in mind the following: 1. The agenda for the night is as follows: (Fill in Times as appropriate for your location) 7:30 p.m. Speaker is introduced and begins presentation. 8:05 p.m. Presentation ends. Short break. 8:15 p.m. The Master of Ceremonies makes any appropriate announcements 8:20 p.m. Each table is invited to discuss the previously prepared questions. 8:45 p.m. The floor is opened and the large group is invited to ask clarifying questions of the speaker or to communicate what was discussed at their tables. 9:15 p.m. The official program will end. The group is invited to stay and continue to talk. SAMPLE The goal is to end the official program no later than 9:15 p.m. This means that there is some wiggle room if talks go long. However, please be conscious of your time while speaking. 2. Points to keep in mind while constructing your presentation in order to reach young adults: a. Young adults are constantly bombarded with secular messages and values. They come looking for meaning, a sense of spirituality, and better understanding of their Catholic identity. Your talk is meant to feed those needs. >>> Section 4.4 Letter to Accepted Speakers

36 b. Young adults will come with varying levels of education, Catholic or otherwise. Minimize use of jargon. Although you may be an expert in your field, the young adults to whom you are speaking are most likely not. For example, terms such as paschal mystery, priest, prophet, and king, or eschatology may not be understandable to everyone. Of course, extending and developing young adults theological vocabulary so that they are better able to talk about God, the Church, spirituality, etc. is welcome. We recommend, however, that you begin by explaining concepts, and then use technical terminology. c. RENEW Theology on Tap aims to meet young adults where they are and in a comfortable environment. Avoid the temptation to be preachy, judgemental, or accusatory. c. Be aware that your audience will be composed of a group of young adults in their 20s and 30s. This will include a wide range of life styles and life experiences (some married with children, others married but with no children, singles; some will be students, others will have already started their careers; some may be unemployed: etc.). d. We know that you are a professional and will prepare your presentation well. Please avoid the temptation to read solely from notes. e. Please prepare three open-ended questions, which invite reflection on how the topic applies to real life; submit these to a member of the Theology on Tap Team to be printed and used during the smallgroup discussion time. Please send these questions to team at least three business days in advance of your talk. 3. If you are speaking on a controversial topic, as is often the case, not everyone will share your point of view. Healthy debate is welcome, but be aware that some people may try to hijack your presentation for their own agendas. Should this happen, a good solution is to propose that the person continue the dialog with you after the event. Thank you again for your willingness to participate in this project. Please plan to arrive at the restaurant no later than 7:00 p.m. Please let us know if you have any other questions or needs. We look forward to seeing you and hearing your presentation. SAMPLE This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 4.4 Letter to Accepted Speakers

37 Edition This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Give the speaker clear and precise directions to the venue. For example: Your presentation takes place at THE MILE SQUARE Restaurant Address: 221 Washington Ave. Hoboken, NJ Directions from Rt. 78 SAMPLE Take 78E toward Holland Tunnel. When you see the Holland Tunnel turn left onto Newark Avenue. Go five traffic lights and take a left onto Washington Street. Travel three blocks and park. The restaurant is on your right. We will be meeting in the Crown Room immediately on you left as you enter the restaurant. Section 4.4 Letter to Accepted Speakers

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39 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 5 RENEWToT Invitation Strategies 5.1 The Value and Importance of RENEW ToT 5.2 RENEW ToT Invitation Strategies 5.3 RENEW ToT Invitation Techniques Section 5 Invitation Strategies

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41 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap History RENEW TOT MANUAL 5.1 The Value & Importance of RENEW ToT ToT began in June 1981 at St. James Parish in Arlington Heights, Illinois, as a response to a conversation between a parish priest and a young man from the parish who was graduating from college. That man was looking beyond his last few months of college to the real world. He was facing a career, and wondering about the future. He was concerned about his personal identity and finding meaning in life. Will I be more than my job? What will it mean to fall in love? Where does God fit in all this? What does it mean to be Catholic? ToT was and still is designed to address these issues, and much more. Over the past 28 years ToT spread throughout the Archdiocese of Chicago and surrounding dioceses. Parishes came together to work collaboratively with each other, utilizing teams of young adult leaders to offer something special for the young adults of their parish and the surrounding area. These events took place in parish halls and student centers, with great emphasis emphasis on warm hospitality and solid catechesis. One of the key features of ToT is that it strives to meet people where they are. Dioceses and groups around the country have since picked up ToT, many moving the event into the bars and restaurants, continuing to focus on hospitality and solid catechesis while meeting young adults where they are. There have been many different models and different levels of success throughout the country and the world. In 2003, Father John Cusick and Dr. Kate DeVries from the Archdiocese of Chicago Young Adult Ministry Office approached RENEW International. They asked RENEW International to take the Chicago diocesan model of ToT, along with best practices across the country, and teach others how best to reach out to young adults through this highly successful program. RENEW International accepted this challenge and is now offering RENEW ToT, a model and approach that can be used across the U.S. and the world. >>> Section 5.1 The Value & Importance of RENEW ToT

42 Purpose The purpose of RENEW ToT is threefold: A. to find and invite young adults to gather with their peers for a positive experience of Catholicism (evangelization). B. to share the rich traditions of our faith with the current generations (catechesis). C. to establish a forum where young adults can address and discuss their issues, questions, and concerns (faith formation, spiritual growth, and community building). What needs and desires does RENEW ToT address for young adults? the need to feed their spiritual hunger. the need to gather and share their faith with peers. the need to grow ever deeper spiritually, and to come into greater contact with God. the desire to understand Catholic rituals, signs and symbols, and to learn how God and their faith are part of their everyday lives. the desire to share their gifts with their peers. the desire for a positive experience of Catholicism. So what is RENEW ToT really like? Here is a selection of comments from people who taken part in RENEW ToT, either as participants or as leaders: Personal invitation was the key to our success. We went around our city visiting fire stations, police stations, hospitals, fitness centers, restaurants, stores, delis, any place that would allow us to hang posters. At each location we had to talk to the people present about what we were doing. People were taken in by the posters and were curious about us. Occasionally they would invite us in to chat, or in brief conversation tell us about their connection to the local Catholic church. Going door to door and talking to people was challenging as it forced us to talk about our faith and religious activities to strangers. We became evangelizers. The professional and attractive looking posters made people more comfortable about being associated with something religious. People made comments about the Theology on Tap that they saw on posters all over town. Go after the non-church crowd; don't let this be another place for church folk to meet. Before the last event, a team member called everyone on the list of names that had been collected at Theology on Tap inviting them to the final Theology on Tap. At that last event many people commented that they came because of that phone call. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 5.1 The Value & Importance of RENEW ToT

43 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap People really enjoyed the promotional coasters. Our team viewed them as conversation starters. They could be handed out to friends, co-workers, people on the subway, etc. Somehow putting the focus on a coaster made talking about my faith less uncomfortable. At the last two events members of our team became interested in small Christian community follow up. We surveyed the participants and 28 people said they were interested in this kind of follow up to Theology on Tap. The owners and managers of the restaurant, who originally were skeptical about our events, looked proud of our success by the fourth week. They began to share personal stories of concern and conversion with our team. During the events the wait staff would sometimes stop and listen to the talks. Later they would comment that they were interesting and they really liked working on Monday nights. A friend of one of our team members became so enthralled with the process that he came to six of the eight events and started reaching out to his own friends and family to invite. He was able to invite his brother who had not been involved in anything religious for years. Section 5.1 The Value & Importance of RENEW ToT

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45 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 5.2 RENEW ToT Invitation Strategies The business world speaks in terms of marketing. As for RENEW ToT, we prefer to speak of invitation strategies. However, we need to learn from and adopt the best practices of the commercial world. Here are the key questions that any good invitation campaign organizer should be asking, and the planning elements that flow from them: Who do we want to invite? What are the needs, expectations, attitudes of those whom we want to invite? What do we want to happen? How can we reach out effectively to the identified reach group and for the identified goal? What is the best way/time to invite? What needs to be done? Who is responsible for each element or task? When do each of these tasks need to happen? In what order? What materials do we need to support an effective invitation e.g. publicity, sign-up cards? What went well? What was a challenge? What do we need to change for the next time? Who will we target next season? Reach or target group Know your audience Goal Strategy Determine and assign tasks Develop timetable Gather materials Evaluate >>> Section 5.2 Invitation Strategies

46 The reach or target group RENEW ToT is specifically directed to young Catholic adults. Broadly defined that means women and men in their 20s and 30s, married and single. Obviously, that is a vast and varied group of people. Within that large group of people there are a number of subgroupings of young adults to consider inviting to the program. Know your audience Invitation is most effective when you know who you intend to invite and what their needs are. Below is a breakdown of various groupings of young adults. Each group has differing needs. Review the list in light of your area: who will you invite? and what are their particular needs in your area? 1. Your audience falls into the following life situations a. married couples b. couples c. married with children d. single with children e. singles f. single again g. resident college students h. commuter college students i. post-high school working individuals 2. They can also be targeted on the basis of their age. Each age range (depending on life situation as defined above) has different needs and interests. a. post-college: individuals in their early 20s b. early young adult: year olds (21-23 year olds may fall into this category if they began working immediately after high school) c. later young adult: year olds 3. Your audience may also be targeted in terms of culture and/or nationality a. in terms of the amount of time they have spent in this country b. in terms of their first language c. in terms of their culture 4. Young adults need to be targeted in terms of the strength of their affiliation to their parish and their involvement in parish life and activities a. Active Young Catholic Adults: those who take part in Mass at least once a month; were married in the parish; are RCIA graduates; have children in religious education; are confirmation sponsors; participate in parish-sponsored groups and activities. b. Mobile Young Catholic Adults: those who participate in the parish, but live elsewhere; who call the parish home, but live elsewhere; who have their own apartments in another part of the city or geographical area, but still call the parish of their school years their home parish. c. Affiliated Young Catholic Adults: Individuals who live within the parish This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 5.2 Invitation Strategies

47 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap area who check the Catholic box on census and other official forms but who are not directly associated with any parish. This is the hardest audience to reach and attract. d. Invited guests of affiliated or active young Catholic adults. 5. Consider where your reach population resides, what places they frequent, what they read, watch and listen to, and which web sites they visit. Your audience frequents train and bus stations, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, libraries, gyms, art galleries, police and fire stations, hospitals, small shops, supermarkets, public buildings, bank vestibules, and apartment or condo complexes to name a few. Where are the gathering places in your area? What newspapers, magazines, periodicals, etc., do local young Catholic adults read? What news programs, and radio shows might they view or listen to? What are popular web sites they might visit? For more information on young adults, review Part One of the US Bishops Document on Young Adults, Sons and Daughters of the Light: A Pastoral Plan for Ministry with Young Adults. Goal The goal for the RENEW ToT program is nothing other the goal set by the US Bishops in their above mentioned pastoral plan for young adults. The four-fold objective is to connect young adults to: Jesus Christ; the Church, by inviting and welcoming their presence in the Christian community; the mission of the Church in the world; and a peer community in which their faith is nurtured and strengthened. Strategy* Outreach and Invitation to Young Catholic Adults The invitation extended to participate in RENEW ToT should follow the two basic principles of outreach: 1. Proceed from the known to the unknown (from those you already know to those you don t know). 2. Move from the personal to the impersonal (begin with direct personal invitation and only to advertising and publicity thereafter). * For building a strategy of invitation, and for other information on evangelization with young adults, we recommend The Basic Guide to Young Adult Ministry by Fr John Cusick and Kate DeVries (Orbis Books). >>> Section 5.2 Invitation Strategies

48 When extending your invitation, there are four ways or "vehicles" through which to deliver your message: A. Direct personal invitation B. Personal invitation through a respected person C. Advertising D. Publicity A. Direct personal invitation Team members and parish staff personally invite potential attendees in person, over the phone, and through personal visits. The first step is to make a list. 1. Master list Develop a Master List of Young Adults who will be invited to RENEW ToT and future young adult and parish programs. Track all gathered contact information in a database (name, address, contact numbers, , birthday, parish) Make a list of known young adults. Who does the core team know that would like to be invited? Friends, coworkers, family members? Who is involved in the parish (on a committee, in a liturgical ministry, etc.) who would be interested or who would know others who would be interested? Collect names and contact information for young adults belonging to the parish but who may not be known by the Core Team. Review the following: Parish registration. There will be two types of registration those individuals living with their parents and registered under the family name and those individuals with their own homes and apartments and registered under their own names. This listing can be accumulated by targeting people by year of birth, and having the parish secretary or RENEW ToT Core Team member list all these individuals by name, address, address, and phone number. Marriage certificates and pre-cana lists. Parents of newly and recently baptized children, and sometimes the parents of First Communicants. Older youth group and confirmation lists. Even if the phone numbers are those of the parents of your target audience most parents will be happy to give the parish current contact information. Seek additional names of others who are neither registered in the parish nor involved in parish activities. This is usually a small but interested group of people. Request that for each week over the course of one month, the parish This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 5.2 Invitation Strategies

49 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap bulletin run an announcement for young Catholic adults for send in their contact information; in the same way, Mass participants could also be invited to submit names of young adults they know who might be interested in RENEW ToT. They might be family members, coworkers, friends, etc. Have a fixed place at the back of the church, with a bulletin board, specifically for young adult information. Combine the above for the major Church holidays such as Christmas, Easter, Ash Wednesday and Palm Sunday. Place an item in the parish bulletin, set up an information table at the back of church staffed by actively participating young adult volunteers, and have census cards (a couple of sheets of paper or postcards) available at the back of church for people to fill out and leave or to send later. Collect names and contact info for young Catholic adults belonging to the parish who may not be known by the Core Team. Review the following: Obtain outside lists or make contact with someone who can distribute information through other channels (newsletters, lists). Contact local campus ministry programs and request lists of recently graduated students who may still live in the area, or of graduate students who might be interested in the program. Contact local Catholic high schools to ask for lists of young adult teachers who might be interested in the program. Try to obtain alumni lists from Catholic colleges or Newman centers, local professional associations, and fraternal organizations. Once the master list has been generated, determine the best person to extend the invitation. This will generally be someone who has some connection with the person being invited. Additionally you must choose the best way in which to deliver the invitation. Remember the basic rule of starting from the personal and move to the impersonal; in person invitations, phone calls and personal visits are the most effective. and written letters as less effective when used alone. B. Personal invitation through a respected person If your message reaches the ears of respected people in the life of a young adult, their invitation can make a great impact. These people may be waiting for an event such as RENEW ToT. True, sometimes the fact that a program is recommended by someone s parents may be more dissuasive than persuasive. However, a recommendation from a loved one or associate may plant a seed, and the more someone hears about a concept, the more accepted the idea becomes. The goal of this vehicle is to reach the ears of these people so they in turn can extend the invitation to their young adults. Reach out to parents, grandparents, relatives, friends, co-workers, and associates through: >>> Section 5.2 Invitation Strategies

50 phone calls personal letters or s bulletin announcements pulpit announcements articles in diocesan and secular newspapers Reach out to local Catholic institutions Contact Hospitals, Knights of Columbus, retreat centers, spiritual directors, shrines, etc. Do they have young adult staff or young adult participation? Ask them to extend an invitation to your event. C. Advertising Advertising can be defined as any message created and distributed by an organization. Through advertising, an organization has total control over the message; however, there is generally a cost and it is slightly less trustworthy than other forms of invitation. (All advertisers say their product/event/whatever is the best, biggest, brightest, most popular etc.). 1. Where to advertise Spread the word via the web. Post your event on Advertise your RENEW ToT information on web sites such as existing parish/diocesan web sites, young adult Catholic sites such as or secular sites such as or Facebook. Create an distribution list to send out information on your upcoming events, or use to spread the word. ( is a free electronic invitation site that you can design to fit your event). Place an advertisement on the radio, TV or as an advertisement before a movie. 2. Advertising media 11x17 Posters to hang around town Business cards with pertinent event information used by team members to distribute to friends, acquaintances, family, and co-workers. These business cards could also be handed out at Mass and the congregation instructed to give one or more to young adults they know Banners to hang inside or outside the church Sandwich board for outside the restaurant or outside the church Postcards or coasters which can be distributed in bars/restaurants/coffee shops, at churches, on street corners, can be to be given to Team members as personal invitation devices Bill boards on popular highways This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 5.2 Invitation Strategies

51 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Tee shirts, back packs, beer mugs or glasses, coffee mugs. Design pens imprinted with the RENEW ToT logo/name and parish web address (consider how often people lose pens and into whose hands your pen might fall) Advertisements on the sides of buses, subways, or TVs within public transportation systems Yard signs outside church, at intersections and in parishioners yards. These could also be used as directional signs for the RENEW ToT events You will find some hints and practical suggestions for creating posters and flyers outlined in Section Use There is no doubt that today is the quickest and easiest way to communicate your message. If is used effectively, people will be informed about upcoming events and possibly even forward the information to friends. Precisely because it is so easy, on average people receive 50 s a day. So you need to make sure that your s are noticed and considered, and that they do not annoy the recipient. Some practical guidelines for crafting effective s are listed in Section 5.3. D. Publicity Publicity can be defined as any method which distributes a message through a third party. This might include a newspaper or magazine article, event listing, etc. Publicity is a highly cost-effective strategy as well as excellent for gaining credibility. 1. Publicity outlets a. Newspapers or Magazines Send a press release or event listing to the local, regional and diocesan newspapers to announce the beginning of RENEW ToT. Invite a reporter from the newspaper to attend the first event. b. Radio and TV Call a radio show and talk about RENEW ToT. Call a local news station and ask them to send a reporter to your first event. Produce a podcast about your RENEW ToT events. If you have a technicallyminded member of the Team who can produce a sound presentation on computer, this can be posted on a web site for download by interested readers, who can listen to it on their ipod or other devices. c. Event Have a big event at your parish to announce the beginning of RENEW ToT. Invite everyone. Have free food. >>> Section 5.2 InvitationStrategies

52 d. Other If you have created tee-shirts/hats/back packs/etc., have people wear them around town. Talk to local universities and colleges and ask them to publicize RENEW ToT. 2. Press Releases a. Definition A press release is a one-page summary of your event, organization and contact information. A basic press release is written in what is called inverted pyramid style. This means you begin with the most important information and then present information of less importance further down in the article. This allows the editor to cut from the bottom if the article needs to be shortened. Use short, snappy sentences, with no passive tenses. Edit and re-edit to cut out extra words or duplications. Remember, press releases are written in the third person about your church or group, so express it as they not we. Determine and Assign Tasks, Develop Timetable, Gather Materials From the list of strategies above and from what your team devises creatively, you need to decide What methods will you choose to spread the word? Who will accomplish each task? In what amount of time? What materials will you need? Creating a comprehensive list helps all members of the team remember what remains to be accomplished, and who is responsible for what activity. A good team accomplishes the tasks they set out to do and holds each other accountable for their completion. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 5.2 Invitation Strategies

53 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 5.3 RENEW ToT Invitation Techniques Having explored (in Section 5.2 ) how to ensure you have strong invitational strategies, here are some practical suggestions related to the principal techniques for implementing those strategies. These are not exhaustive, but cover three areas of invitational outreach in which every Core Team should be engaged: 1 Responding to questions 2 Creating a poster or a flyer 3 Using technology 1 Responding to questions When inviting people to participate in RENEW ToT, you might be asked some questions to which you might not have an immediate response. Here are samples of typical questions and suggested ways of formulating an appropriate response. SITUATION POSSIBLE RESPONSES Why are you visiting/calling me? Our parish _ is about to begin something very exciting and we want to share it with as many people as possible. I m no longer a practicing Catholic. I am sorry to hear that. Do you mind if I ask you why? Many people leave the Catholic Church because of a particular situation, apathy or busyness. Share how RENEW ToT might address a hunger for the Word of God and for community. End with: I hope you will give us another try. I m angry at the Church because... The Church is a human institution as well as being Divine. We are made up of saints and sinners. It is unfortunate that we cause pain to one another. RENEW ToT can be a vehicle in which we come together and focus on the positive aspects of our faith. >>> Section 5.3 Invitation Techniques

54 SITUATION POSSIBLE RESPONSES RENEW ToT...doesn t that promote alcoholism? At RENEW ToT we do our best to ensure that no one is over-served. The beverages that often go the fastest are the sodas and the water. How much of a time commitment is this? The sessions meet once a week for 90 minutes for (four) weeks. I certainly realize that you are a busy person. But would you not consider trying it? I m too busy at this time. We will be meeting again _ and we may have some future events that you might be interested in. Would you mind if I kept your name and called you again or contacted you by at that time? I already know everybody who s involved with young adult ministry at this parish. The purpose of RENEW ToT is to gather people you don t normally see around the church. We have advertised all around town, sent s and we are inviting all sorts of people. I m sure you will meet some new people. I don t know anyone who is doing this. RENEW ToT is a great opportunity to meet new people. Many people come alone for the first time and find the atmosphere very welcoming and comfortable. Give it a try! This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 5.3 Invitation Techniques

55 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 2. Creating a Poster/Flyer Posters and flyers are the most common kinds of publicity used by any group that wants to attract clients or participants. This means that no one will be surprised that you use posters and flyers; but it also means that you are in competition with all the other organizations that are trying to attract a young adult s attention to their message or product. Here, then, are some suggestions, so that what you produce will have that extra something that wins over the reader. All posters/flyers must have the RENEW ToT logo indicate that events are for young adults in their 20s and 30s. a. Create posters/flyers that are eye catching Design the poster/flyer in an interesting, intriguing, attention-getting manner. Budget permitting, consider using a graphic designer (or someone in graphic design classes). Invent a catchy headline that encourages the viewer to read more. The rest of the words should be straight to the point. Give viewers enough information to get them in the door including: date/time; location; contact information; availability of food and drinks; cost (if any); words describing what the event is about. Be concise. Use art, such as photos, illustrations, clip art, shapes, colorful backgrounds etc. to gain immediate attention. Design words and the visual at the same time to create a unified effect. Be generous with white space (blank space on the poster). Posters/Flyers which are stuffed with words and/or art are difficult to read and comprehend. Viewers tend to skip over posters/flyers that are too busy ; they prefer to look at open, clean posters/flyers. Be sparing in your use of fonts; usually one font is enough. Do not use ALL CAPS (it is the equivalent of SHOUTING AT SOMEONE). Use italics and bold where appropriate; do not use underlining. Go for consistency. SPELL-CHECK! b. Write for the busy viewer Running to classes, running home, running to a meeting, it is few people s intention to walk around just to look at your advertisement. This is a fastpaced world, so if viewers see your poster at all, they are not going to spend a lot of time on it. A common mistake is expecting posters to do too much. Successful posters/flyers: immediately capture the attention of your potential participants encourage them to remember what you want them to do >>> Section 5.3 Invitation Techniques

56 persuade them to actually do it Posters should have one message and one message only. The more extras you start throwing into the ad, the more convoluted it will become, and the less likely to prompt your viewer to action. c. Creativity exercises Learn by example, both by good examples and by bad examples One of the best ways to learn how to craft successful posters is to study what already exists around your town/city. What posters attract your eyes? Which posters drive them away? Which posters have headlines that intrigue you? What graphics capture your attention? Are there words that encourage you to find out more? Why? Now look at ads that do nothing for you. Why don t you like them? Are they too cluttered? Too difficult to understand? Did the headline make you yawn? d. Get permission Beware of overly promoting the alcohol side of RENEW ToT. Graphics of large beer glasses, or emphasis on drink prices may be contrary to local alcohol advertising laws. Check with your local police department before posting questionable posters. Check to ensure there are no city ordinances against posting your flyer in certain areas or passing them out on the street. Check also with the pastoral staffs of sponsoring parishes (liaison can do this) especially if sponsoring parishes are listed. e. Post in highly visible places Where do people congregate? (restaurants, bars, convenience stores, health clubs, post offices, retail shops, bookstores, coffee shops, ice cream shops, etc.) Think of the posters you have noticed around town. Where are the most memorable posters located? 3. Using technology a. Facebook create a Facebook page for your group link with groups throughout the country announce your events and generate discussions This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 5.3 Invitation Techniques

57 b. Twitter Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap create a following announce events more rapidly c. Keep s short and to the point. The most important part of the message should come first. When constructing content consider the following: Include a snappy subject heading that attracts attention and answers a need, for example: RENEW Theology on Tap: Tap into Something More. DO NOT WRITE IN CAPITAL LETTERS. Do not use exclamation points, dollar or mathematical symbols, or smiley faces, or be deceptive in your message heading otherwise your may look like SPAM. Be wary of headlines that might trigger automatic filters. Write as though you are having a friendly conversation with the recipient. Focus on the recipient: use you in preference to we. Highlight the benefits of RENEW ToT and the benefit received from being a part of this program. Feature the RENEW ToT logo prominently. Keep in mind that although graphics can enhance your message, they vastly increase the size of your message (in kbs). If your recipient has limited box capacities, your messages will be refused. Protect your list. Avoid participants receiving advertising for other events and groups that have no relation with the young adult ministry you are promoting. Send s regularly to keep your audience informed, but maintain the balance between informing and inundating. Keep messages to the essential minimum. Be sure to get explicit permission before sending anyone . Respect users who decide to opt-in or opt-out of receiving s. If people ask to be removed from the list, remove them promptly. Section 5.3 Invitation Techniques

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59 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 6 The RENEW ToT Venue 6.1 Choosing the Location and Venue Section 6 The RENEW ToT Venue

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61 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 6.1 Choosing a Location and Venue A key to the success of RENEW ToT events is that they meet young adults where they are, not just in terms of their outlook on life, but literally in choosing venues which young adults already frequent. There are two steps to choosing an appropriate location: 1. Choose the type of venue 2. Choose a particular venue 1. Choosing the type of venue Venues should be chosen based upon your target audience and the kind of venues they are most likely to attend. Keep in mind this might be the first time some of these young adults will be attending something religious and that some of them might come alone. Where could we hold an event that would be the most hospitable and comforting to a newcomer (parish hall, restaurant, coffee shop, bar)? For example, while singles and young marrieds in their 20s and 30s might be inclined to attend an event in a restaurant or bar, young parents might be happier to try a parish hall with babysitting, or college students might be most comfortable in a coffee shop setting. Keys To Success: Good Atmosphere - Venues should have a warm and inviting feeling. Great Food and Drinks - Young adults are most likely coming from work, many without first stopping at home, thus it helps to plan a real meal, not a snack. A good meal, which they do not have to cook, might be quite tempting! Many young adults are health conscious, so remember to consider vegetarian options and other healthy alternatives. Be creative! From experience, the event usually takes place in a restaurant, a bar or a parish hall. Use your imagination and try other venues. At a coffee shop you could offer a dessert night. Other possible venues include Knights of Columbus halls, or other fraternal organizations, and public facilities such as beaches, park shelters or libraries. 2. Choosing a particular venue Once the type of venue is decided, a particular venue must be chosen. RENEW ToT has taken a number of forms around the country. What follows provides examples of how >>> Section 6.1 Choosing a Location and Venue

62 groups have offered RENEW ToT, and the kind of questions that should be faced in making a final decision. For a parish hall: For over 25 years the Archdiocese of Chicago has been running RENEW ToT in parish meeting rooms, backyards, and halls, attracting thousands of young adults every summer to 40-plus parishes across the diocese. These parishes provide light refreshments to full Italian dinners, in addition to beer, wine, soft drinks, and water. Events run on parish premises generally have no cost to participants. Costs to the parish include: food, drinks, paper products (napkins, plates, etc), publicity, cost of speakers, decorations, and printing. You will need to check local liability laws and diocesan regulations regarding distribution of alcohol on parish property. Here are some questions to ask when considering a parish meeting spot: What is the feel of the parish meeting place? Is there a need for decorations to make the room feel more comfortable? Is the room the right size for the group you are expecting? Where will the food and beverages come from? Can parishioners offer prepared food? Might one of the parish committees provide food? Are there restaurants or catering companies that might offer or donate appropriately priced food? Are local restaurants willing to donate food in exchange for advertising at the event? Does the parish hall have a liquor license? Can a temporary liquor license be gained? When is the meeting space available? Are there potential conflicts? Who will clean up? Who will set up? Is there a need to rent tables and chairs? In the restaurant/bar model: A number of parishes and dioceses across the country have started RENEW ToT events in bars and restaurants, the most notable being the dioceses of Newark NJ, Washington DC and Atlanta GA. In the restaurant/bar model, 1. The standard method is for participants order food and drinks directly off the menu. The cost to the participants is cost of food and drinks, and gratuity. Costs to the parish include: the cost of speakers fees, printing, and publicity. 2. Another option might be that participants partake in a previously negotiated buffet and have access to happy-hour priced drinks. The cost to the participants is the cost of food and drinks. Costs to the parish include: gratuity, the cost of speakers fees, printing, and publicity. Usually, the restaurant will waive a room rental fee because you are bringing them business. Key questions to ask when considering a restaurant or bar: Are there parishioners who have restaurant/bar connections? Ask pastors who they might know and recommend. Are there bars or restaurants which already support the parish by advertising in the bulletin? Is the venue large enough to hold the estimated attendance? This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 6.1 The RENEW ToT Venue

63 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Is there a separate room that can be used or can the whole restaurant be closed to the public for the night? (In some cases whole restaurants or portions of restaurants can be shut down to the general public.) Is there a sound system for the speaker? Will noise from other parts of the restaurant interfere with or distract from the presentation? Will the restaurant manager give discounts on food or drinks? Will people order their own food from the menu before the talk starts or will there be a buffet? Notes for discussions with restaurant managers Do not feel embarrassed talking to managers. They want business and you are offering to do free advertising on a large scale. A RENEW ToT event will bring in new people to try the restaurant s food and feel the atmosphere. In many cases the event will bring in a good deal of business for the restaurant and they will be happy to have you. Offer to run the event on a slow night, which will often be Sunday nights through Wednesday nights. Monday nights are usually the slowest restaurant nights. However, you need to be aware of sporting or other popular events that may detract from your RENEW ToT event. For example, RENEW ToT held on Monday nights may be in direct competition with Monday Night Football. You will be asked for a total number of people attending, simply because the restaurant needs to know in order to reserve space and/or prepare an appropriate amount of food. Tell them your best estimate, making clear that it is only an estimate and not a guaranteed number of people. Confirm your arrangement in writing Once your team has chosen a particular venue, make note of all the agreed specifics. Send a note to the parish, restaurant manager, etc. detailing the date, times, prices, and specifics negotiated. Be sure to confirm all arrangements at least two weeks before the events. Section 6.1 Choosing a Location and Venue

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65 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 7 The RENEW ToT Event 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event 7.2 Assigning Tasks 7.3 Practicing Hospitality 7.4 Preparing for a RENEW ToT Event 7.5 Proximate Preparation 7.6 Speaker Hospitality Section 7.0 The RENEW ToT Event

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67 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event Sample Format/Timetable for a RENEW ToT event 6:30 p.m. Team arrives to set up (or earlier, if necessary) 7:00 p.m. Ready to go: all preparations should be complete; hospitality ready 7:30 p.m. Master of Ceremonies welcomes everyone, offers 15 minutes for continued socializing, placing orders, etc.; hospitality continues 7:45 pm Speaker is introduced; presentation begins 8:25 p.m. Presentation ends; Master of Ceremonies makes announcements (five minutes) 8:30 p.m. Ten minute break Distribute the question sheets to tables 8:45 p.m. Small-group sharing at tables, guided by question sheets 9:00 p.m. Question and answer session with speaker, based on small-group discussion 9:15 p.m. Event ends: socializing may continue ~ 9:30 p.m. Clean-up should be complete The task of the RENEW ToT Core Team is to provide young adults with a good experience for approximately two hours, from the moment they arrive until the time they leave. The goal is to ensure that the RENEW ToT session be enjoyable, as well as enriching. Once the presentation begins, the tenor of the evening is almost solely in the hands of the speaker. This is why it is essential to seek out speakers who can not only provide solid and relevant content, but can do so in a way that will engage and inspire a young adult audience. However, the speaker s presentation is not the only element that people will use to measure the value of RENEW ToT. The hospitality, the atmosphere, and the spirit are all a part of the total experience of RENEW ToT, and are just as important as the subject matter for the session because they condition how receptive the participants will be. In outlining a typical RENEW ToT session, there is a simple underlying principal at work: if you were attending RENEW ToT alone for the first time, how would you like things to happen? With that in mind, here is a detailed overview of a RENEW ToT event. One Hour Before 1. The Core Team should arrive no later than 6:30 p.m. for a 7:30 p.m. session. Upon arrival everyone should know their task for the evening: registration, hospitality, refreshments, decoration, etc. The goal is to have everything Section 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event

68 prepared by 7:00 p.m. 2. Directional signs should be posted leading people from the street, to the parking area, to the entrance, and to the room in which RENEW ToT will take place. Good clear directional signs are a visible expression of ToT s hospitality to its participants. These signs should be printed in letters large enough to be seen from 100 feet away. Some of the people attending RENEW ToT may not be familiar with the venue, so provide plenty of directional signs. You would not want someone new to turn away from RENEW ToT because they could not find the group. Avoid using terms and indications understood only by people familiar with the venue. For example, a sign on a exterior door that reads RENEW THEOLOGY-ON-TAP in the Burns Room would not really be helpful, because anyone who does not know where the Burns Room is, will still not know where to go. So instead, have a sign in large, clear print which spells out, for example: Enter here, then down the stairs to the Burns Room (second room on the right) The strategy to keep in mind is this: Presume nothing. Explain everything. Explain too much, not too little. Some typical signs that should serve any RENEW ToT event, can be downloaded from the Theology on Tap online resource library. Here are the kinds of places you should expect to have to post signage: at various street corners in the close vicinity of the venue at the entrance to the parking lot on the wall of parish buildings facing the parking lot (if the entrance door is not clearly visible, post as many of these directional signs as necessary in order for people to find the entrance to the building) on the building entrance door if there is a distance from the doorway to the room in which RENEW ToT will be held, affix signs along the way to the room at the entrance to the room where RENEW ToT will take place there should be signs of welcome, registration, and information As people arrive If the room is a long way from the entrance to the building, have greeters at the main door to direct participants. There should be a registration table at the entrance to the room. Two or three young adults from the Core Team should be there to welcome the participants, assist them with registration, thank them for attending, and make sure they put on a name tag. After each person has registered, one of the Team Members delegated to registration can invite them to find a beverage, meet some other people, and/or take a seat. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event

69 To guarantee the atmosphere of hospitality and to achieve the goal of making RENEW ToT an enjoyable time for everyone, the Core Team might wish to assign one or more people to the refreshment table (if applicable). While pouring beverages, for example, they can engage the participants in light conversation. Attention to this kind of detail personalizes the experience for the participants. Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Before the presentation begins The RENEW ToT Core Team should delegate several people to assume the role of greeters. As the registered participants begin to gather, these greeters mingle among them, introducing themselves, engaging in small talk, learning a little bit about each person and, if possible, introducing each person to someone else. Each greeter should be wearing a large, legibly printed name tag. The kind of lead questions that might be appropriate are: Hi, welcome! I m [John Smith], and you are? Are you working? (If so) Where do you work? Going to school? Have you ever been to RENEW ToT before? Where do you live? Let me introduce you to a few other people... RENEW ToT Team Members should not converse among themselves during the event. Hospitality is the goal, which means that the Team Members should be looking out for newcomers and making a special effort to welcome them. If you recognize people who are returning for their second or third RENEW ToT event, let them know you are glad to see them again. One member of the RENEW ToT Core Team should be the speaker host (see Section 7.6 for full details of this role). Duties on the night of the event include: meeting the speaker; welcoming him/her to the RENEW ToT event; and at the appropriate time, introducing the speaker to the group prior to the presentation; providing for any needs during the event. One RENEW ToT Core Team member should be the Master of Ceremonies for the evening. The RENEW ToT event should begin as close to the advertized start time as possible and end at the time set. It is important to honor the advertised time and respect the time that people have set aside in order to attend RENEW ToT. This task has five components: 1. calling the evening to order 2. making the appropriate announcements 3. calling people back after the break 4. launching the large group question/response time 5. concluding the evening s session. Here are samples of how the MC could deal with these five moments: 1 Calling the evening to order 1.1 General introduction to the evening Master of Ceremonies Good evening! Welcome to _ {name of venue] Thank you for attending RENEW THEOLOGY ON TAP. My name is _ Section 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event

70 and along with our RENEW THEOLOGY ON TAP Core Team and the parishes of _ {name the sponsoring parishes] it is our privilege to have you here and to offer this time together. Optional. Alternative appropriate moments for prayer are: as a grace before the meal; at the end of the evening. I would like to invite [parish pastor or delegated team member] to lead us in a short moment of prayer. RENEW THEOLOGY ON TAP provides us with a great chance to get together with other young adults and meet some new people. RENEW THEOLOGY ON TAP also gives us an opportunity to take the time to reflect on the issues of daily life and in particular to re-evaluate them in the light of our faith. Tonight our speaker is going to help us focus on the issue of. Before the presentation begins lets take about 15 minutes to get to know one another, order our food and continue to socialize. 1.2 Introducing the Speaker This is the kind of presentation that the speaker contact person might make: Good evening. My name is: _.And I m glad you re all here. Our speaker tonight is _ [speaker s name] who is _ [speaker s work or vocation], and comes to us tonight because of _ [speaker s experience and/or area of expertise]. Please join me in welcoming _ [title and name of speaker] to our THEOLOGY ON TAP session. 2 At the end of the presentation: announcements This, from experience, is the best moment to make announcements: this is because some people will choose to or may have to leave at the break. So if you want everyone to hear everything, make the announcements before the break. Possible announcements include: other RENEW ToT events taking place in the area availability of relevant information and/or resources on parish and/or other young adult activities (e.g. near the door) Explain follow-up opportunities to take place after the series (small Christian communities, retreat, service opportunities, etc.) inviting those who like to be part of small faith-sharing groups or other follow-up activities to leave their names and contact information on the sheets provided on the tables. Also ask them to list what follow-up activities might interest them. It is important to keep the announcements short and to the point; never more than five minutes. Ideally, publicity flyers should be available for all relevant upcoming events. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event

71 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Master of Ceremonies Thank you very much for your presentation. I d like to take this opportunity to tell you _ (announcements). We are now going to take a ten-minute break. After our break, we will re-assemble for some conversation and questions. I will call us back to our places at the end of our break. Thanks very much. 3 At the end of the break Master of Ceremonies Could everyone please be seated again? Our speaker has prepared some questions for us to use as conversation starters. And in just a few minutes we will break into groups for some discussion that will take about 20 minutes. You should find a small sheet with questions on each table: these are designed to help the discussion get started. 4 Launching the large group response/question time After 20 minutes for the discussion in small group, the Master of Ceremonies should call the large group back to order, and invite the participants to share any interesting insights or questions that came up in the small groups. Master of Ceremonies Can we gather into a large group again, please? There certainly were some lively conversations going on around the room! It would be good to share some of that with the larger group, and with the speaker. So, would anyone like to raise a question or share an insight from your table? Direct the contributions, as necessary, making sure that no one person monopolizes the discussion. 5 Concluding the evening s session There are five goals to the concluding remarks: 1. to offer sincere and genuine thanks a. to the speaker b. to the participants c. to the organizers 2. to review (very briefly!) the content of the session 3. to reinforce the most important announcements 4. to preview the next week s session (speaker and topic) Section 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event

72 5. to invite the participants to the next session. Combining these would give something like this: Master of Ceremonies Thank you, _ [speaker s name], for being with us! Our evening together is coming to a close. On behalf of our THEOLOGY ON TAP Core Team, and the parishes of _ {name the sponsoring parishes] I want to thank you for making the effort of coming to THEOLOGY ON TAP tonight. Without you THEOLOGY ON TAP just would not happen! One thing in the presentation that struck me was [one nugget gleaned from either the speaker s presentation or from the subsequent group discussion] So thank you very much! Your presence means a lot! [Applause; lead, if necessary.] We also need to thank the Team who put this evening together, and those who made sure the food and drink were ready for us. [Applause; again, lead, if necessary.] Please take home with you the announcement flyers on the registration desk. If you have any questions about anything we announced tonight, please ask anyone on our Core Team as you leave. Those of you that are interested in continuing to meet together, but in small groups, to continue faith exploration and faith sharing, or are interested in other follow-up activities, please leave your name and your contact details on the sheets at your table. Next week our speaker will be _ [speaker s name] and his [her] topic is _ [name the title of the talk]. Thanks again for being with us tonight. It would be great to have you back with us next week at the very same time, 7:30 p.m. Thank you very much for your time! At the very end As people are leaving, every member of the RENEW ToT Core Team should be mingling among the group, inviting them back next week, and answering any and all questions. Cleaning up can wait! Remember: creating a welcoming atmosphere to the end can be as important as the quality of the speaker and presentation; the more welcome the participants feel, the more likely they are to return. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 7.1 Sample RENEW ToT Event

73 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 7.2 Assigning Tasks The Core Team has ongoing responsibility for the ToT process, and for the spiritual benefits it is designed to bring. Here are some notes on the kinds of things to which the Core Team should be attentive: Core Team Task List Team Leader Leads meetings Keeps people on task Faith-Sharing Leader Leads faith-sharing sessions Creates prayerful and comfortable environment Parish Liaison(s) Informs sponsoring parish(es) Procures checks for speakers SCCs Follow-up Coordinator Explains and publicizes small Christian communities & other follow-up activities during events Coordinates sign ups and communication with those interested for SCCs beginning after the series On the look out for potential leaders for SCCs and other follow-up activities Publicity Commitee Spearheads all advertising/press efforts Responsible for photos at events A successful ToT event demands the cooperation of the whole Team, with each person knowing clearly what they are responsible for and when it should happen. >>> Section 7.2 Assigning Tasks

74 Event Tasks Event Liaison go-to person at event Liaison with venue Sound/Lighting Procures sound/lighting equipment Sets up sound/lighting at events Runs sound/lighting Speaker Host Communicates with speakers Hosts speakers at events Responsible for thank you notes to speakers Masters of Ceremonies 1 (different person for each event) 2 Leads event 3 up-front person at event 4 Decorating/Set-Up Committee Procures decorations and supplies Decorates/Sets up Hospitality/Welcome Table Welcome Table ministers: Hospitality ministers: Clean-Up Committee Responsible for cleaning/resetting room This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 7.2 Assigning Tasks

75 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap These lists are not exhaustive; adapt and expand them as necessary. RENEW International, through its experience, understands the power of small faithsharing groups in facilitating action steps, and has developed a resource to assist with this endeavor. Your Core Team can purchase the workbook A Little Leaven... A Faith- Sharing Resource for Team-Building and Planning for RENEW Theology on Tap (available from the online bookstore on the RENEW International website This resource offers outlines for six RENEW ToT organizing meetings. There are two parts to each meeting: 1. a faith-sharing session written specifically for young adults leaders; 2. an expanded version of task listing and assigning, which outlines all the steps needed to complete the organization of a RENEW ToT series. This resource could be a valuable asset for you in strengthening your core community and in planning your series. Section 7.2 Assigning Tasks

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77 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 7.3 Practicing Hospitality A main goal of RENEW ToT is to give young adults in their 20s and 30s a positive experience of coming together to learn about and discuss faith topics. Warm hospitality is key to meeting this goal. How do you know if you have been successful in offering great hospitality? Those who take part in the events are the best judges of the quality of your hospitality. Here are some signs to indicate that you have created a welcoming atmosphere the participants thank you for making them feel welcome the participants tell you how much they enjoyed the evening, and that they intend to come back to RENEW ToT the participants say they will come back, and that they will bring a friend or friends with them Methods for ensuring warm and welcoming hospitality Where do I go? Put yourself in the place of a participant who is not familiar with the location and venue of your RENEW ToT event... there are some people who, if they find it too confusing, will simply turn around and go back home. Make it as easy as possible for everyone to find their way. Place clear and inviting directional signs to direct newcomers (see Section 7.1 for more information). Welcoming presence at the door Team members should be at the front door, ready to greet people as they arrive and direct people to the correct room. The first encounter for any participant should be a smiling welcome from the Team. Friendly registration table Ensure that your registration procedures are not just efficient, but friendly. Give any pertinent information regarding locations (i.e. food/beverage information, bathroom locations etc.), and be ready to answer any questions the participants may have. Sample registration cards are located in the RENEW ToT Resources Library on the web. Name Tags God calls us by name. We recognize each other as daughters and sons of God by calling each other by name. Name tags are a simple way that allows everyone to address each other by name. Name tags also act as a helpful prompt when, in later weeks, you see someone whose name has slipped your mind. The ideal, of course, would be that Team members manage to remember the participants names from week to week. Section 7.3 Practicing Hospitality

78 Greeters Some Team members should fan out across the room greeting participants. Your role is to continue welcoming people, and help them to feel comfortable. Pay special attention to those who sit alone and who seem not to know anyone; engage them in conversation and introduce them to an additional person so you can return to your role as greeter. Move around the room and make introductions between people. It should be an absolute rule that Team members should not talk to each other during the moments of greeting and conversing with the participants. Participant Tables Team members should choose places at different tables so that they continue the work of easing the conversation between participants. During the group discussion, they should be prepared to assume the role of facilitating the discussion and dialogue, but in an informal way. Food and Drink Monitors (if held in a parish hall or using a buffet model at a restaurant) Members of the team should be delegated to monitor the food situation. Ensure that there are sufficient plates, napkins, cups, utensils and that water pitchers are refilled. If working with a restaurant or bar, try to anticipate problems so the wait staff can resolve any difficulties quickly. Information Flyers Distribute information on what's next. At the registration table have advertisements for future events including future RENEW ToT events, small faith-sharing groups, service opportunities, retreats, etc. Include information on sponsoring parishes regarding Mass times, locations, contact names and numbers and other parish opportunities. Ongoing ToT Invitation After the first event and several days before the next, call RENEW ToT participants and thank them for attending. Tell them how great it was to meet them, or if you did not meet them, extend a thank you from the sponsoring parishes. Remind them of upcoming events and tell them that you hope to see them soon. A personal invitation to someone who is already interested in your program can be the extra push needed to get them to come again. Invitation to ongoing involvement in small Christian communities and other follow-up opportunities RENEW ToT is not an end in itself. It is meant to offer young adults a comfortable way of making sense of, and living out their faith. Every RENEW ToT event should invite the participants to ask And now what? In other words, to stimulate them to seek further involvement. A delegated member of the Core Team should have special responsibility for this follow up and in particular develop an attentiveness to those participants who are ready for faith sharing in small Christian communities (SCCs). Some of this invitation in fact, the most influential invitation will take place in personal conversation. However, there should also be regular announcements at each RENEW ToT event, informing the participants about SCCs and other follow-up opportunities and giving them opportunities to sign up and participate. Include survey and sign-up cards on participant tables along with evaluation forms. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition ection 7.3 Practicing Hospitality

79 Challenges to Hospitality Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Attendees are outside the age range ToT is a ministry to people in their 20s and 30s, single and married. Those not meeting the age requirement should tactfully and pastorally be invited to understand that this event is not meant for them. A person in their 40s has very different needs than someone in their early 20s. For example, a college-aged person would be excluded from participating in a high school youth group. The same applies to RENEW ToT. Should this occur (and from experience, it does happen), take the person aside and explain the nature and purpose of RENEW ToT, tell them they can stay for that particular event but they should not come again. However, do present other options appropriate for that person. For example, a RENEW small faith-sharing group is a great alternative. In situations where a person graduates from the RENEW ToT program (which means when they reach their 40th birthday) they may be able to help the program in other ways, but these will be in the background. Section 7.3 Practicing Hospitality

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81 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 7.4 Preparing for a RENEW ToT Event The following guidelines cover elements common to any RENEW ToT event: Scheduling of the venue be sure to schedule the venue for all dates and times needed for the RENEW ToT series in writing prior to advertising the location some venues will require a certificate of insurance (check with the sponsoring parish for this) parish scheduling often requires a form to be filled out and signed by the responsible parish contact Welcome Table a table that is staffed by knowledgeable young adults. Materials needed include: name tags, registration forms, information fliers about upcoming events and sponsoring parishes, pens, etc. Speaker Set-Up microphone connected to sound system small table with water and tissues elevated stool or chair, podium, lighting sufficient for speaker to be seen and to be able to read his or her notes projector and screen if requested by speaker speaker set-up should be away from entry and/or restroom traffic patterns Participant Tables tables of six are ideal (for easy transition into small group discussion) depending on the venue, tables may be limited to booths around the perimeter with chairs in conversation groupings in the middle or around tables in the middle Lighting and Sound Set-up controlling and adjusting the lighting and sound may range from extremely easy to being nearly impossible. Make sure the delegated person understands and can operate them find out whether a sound system is available and if it is available for your use at no charge (use of lighting and sound equipment may require the use of venue personnel and/or a charge) Section 7.4 Preparing for a RENEW ToT Event

82 Make sure to test sound and lighting before use: with the person from the venue, if that is the arrangement; by a member of the Team Make sure you have all the keys necessary for access to the light switches and the sound system. In a restaurant or bar (using buffet model) Food/drink set-up food and drink areas should generally be set up away from where the speaker will be presenting (other end of room) to allow for clean-up without interference with the presentation and/or discussion desserts can often be set up closer to front of room so that people can take one as the speaker begins or small-group sharing begins In a parish hall or other similar facility Food/drink set-up access will need to be arranged: some parishes will arrange for someone to open and close the facility; others will give you a key to use and return food tables may need to be set up (preferably near a preparation area such as a kitchen) drink tables may need to be set up (preferably away from the food to avoid congestion) plates, napkins, utensils, glasses, etc., will be needed tables and chairs will need to be placed for your event; this will require considerable time and people-power, unless the parish has staff to do this (but, from experience, few parishes have staff for set-up) One week before the event What Who Check with the venue about access times for set-up and what will be done _ Make arrangements for any necessary copies/handouts (discussion questions, information on future events, invitations to follow-up activities, evaluation forms, etc.) _ Confirm with speaker and send accurate directions; confirm cell numbers, get the questions for the small-group discussion _ This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Purchase necessary supplies (cups, plates, napkins, decorations, etc.) _ Section 7.4 Preparing for a RENEW ToT Event

83 Get check from host parish to pay the speaker _ If applicable, have money ready for gratuities, or other expenses _ Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Section 7.4 Preparing for a RENEW ToT Event

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85 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW TOT MANUAL 7.5 Proximate Preparation Tasklist for the day of the RENEW ToT event Early in the day Reconfirm with parish/venue about access and times _ Make sure copies/handouts are complete Reconfirm with speaker One or two hours before the event Arrive at event venue Everyone! Check set-up for correctness (or begin set-up) Check temperature, lighting, and sound Hang directional signs Prepare drinks, food, etc. Decorate as desired _ Prepare welcome table, registration forms, name-tags, handouts, pens Finalize all preparations by 30 minutes before scheduled start time 30 minutes before the event Be graciously hospitable as participants arrive Host should be ready to receive speaker Light candles or adjust lighting Preparations for food and drinks completed Everyone! >>> Section 7.5 Proximate Preparation

86 At event time Assure that hospitality continues Everyone! Master-of-Ceremonies leads Welcome and Introductions Host introduces speaker Hear a great talk on a relevant topic Everyone! MC offers a short break before discussion and large group response Post-event Host walks with speaker to car Decorations and signs are taken down Tables, chairs, etc. are moved to original locations or taken down Sit down and participate in the meeting after the meeting Everyone! This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 7.5 Proximate Preparation

87 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 7.6 Speaker Hospitality Speakers are an integral part of the mission and success of RENEW ToT. The following guidelines are designed to help you extend the highest level of hospitality to each speaker. In preparation for the event The delegated speaker host should contact the speaker by telephone prior to the session to verify whether the speaker has any special needs: LCD projector, overhead, pencils and paper, etc. to review the biography of the speaker that will be used as the introduction to the presentation to ask the speaker to provide three questions which will stimulate the discussion and sharing in small groups after the presentation to provide complete, accurate directions to the venue to exchange cell phone information in case of travel delays, emergency, etc. Have a check made out properly to the speaker for the previously determined amount to be given to the speaker at the presentation. Check requests are processed on only one day each week in many parishes familiarize yourself with the process. Those sites that do not pay speakers should have some sort of thank you for each speaker (such as a gift certificate). On the night of the event Provide transportation in a comfortable vehicle with a safe, reliable driver if the speaker requires it (such as a visiting speaker staying in a hotel or in someone's home). Greet the speaker upon arrival and take care of any last minute needs. Provide a quiet, comfortable space for the speaker to prepare before presenting. Water should be available for the speaker. Tissues are also a good idea (allergies can strike anywhere). Make sure that lighting is sufficient for the speaker to be seen and to read notes. The speaker should be warmly introduced with some reference to her/his experience and expertise. The speaker should be publicly thanked in a genuine and warm way at the end of the night for his/her time and insight. It is courteous to accompany the speaker to her/his car (especially at night and in locations unknown to the speaker). Be sure to pay for any parking fees. >>> Section 7.6 Speaker Hospitality

88 After the event A written thank you from the team to the speaker is a particularly nice touch. This note should be written after the presentation is given and mailed to the speaker within a day or two. Make reference in the letter to particularly interesting parts of the presentation, and share with the speaker compliments that the participants have made. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 7.6 Speaker Hospitality

89 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 8 Evaluation and Follow-up 8.1 Evaluating the RENEW ToT Experience 8.2 The Value and Importance of Small Christian Communities 8.3 Small Christian Communities: A Primary Follow-Up 8.4 Other Follow-Up Opportunities Section 8 Evaluation and Follow-Up

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91 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 8.1 Evaluating the RENEW ToT Experience Evaluation Evaluation allows for the opportunity to reflect critically on the past, both on what has been done well and what needs improvement. It allows us to integrate these insights, and to fruitfully move forward into a stronger future. Evaluation is the key to growth and continued development for individuals and for processes and committees. RENEW ToT needs this evaluation and critique to become a stronger program. At each stage in the process you will be asked to evaluate your work, for this will allow you to build a more fruitful ministry. Tomorrow s RENEW ToT RENEW ToT exists today because of the way that parishes and local groups of young adults took up the idea and ran with it: we benefit from some 30 years of experience, but we only benefit because it is shared experience. They evaluated what they did, kept the best ideas, and passed them on to us. We ask you now to be aware of your place in this process, and to forward to us copies of all promotional materials, publicity, press releases, and mass communication. These materials will help us to shape and to reshape the materials and samples for tomorrow s RENEW ToT users. You are in a unique position to help shape the future of RENEW ToT. Thank you in advance for your cooperation. Section 8.1 Evaluating the RENEW ToT Experience

92 Evaluating RENEW ToT Before beginning evaluation, it is helpful to recall the aims of RENEW ToT: A. to find and invite young adults to gather with their peers for a positive experience of Catholicism (evangelization). B. to share the rich traditions of our faith with the current generations (catechesis). C. to establish a forum where young adults can address and discuss their issues, questions, and concerns (faith formation, spiritual growth, and community building). Did you achieve these aims? Here are some types of questions and topics your evaluation should cover, always with an eye to making the program stronger in the future: a. Building the core community Did the core community possess the five elements of Small Christian Communities? Did we share? How was our prayer experience? What have we learned from our core community experience? How well did we support one another? Have we lived out the mission and vision of RENEW ToT? Were there any elements lacking? How can we improve our core community experience? b. Invitational efforts and strategy Did we invite personally? How well did we utilize our invitation strategies? Did we think of creative ways of invitation? Did we reach our target audience? Who wasn t there? How do we reach them? c. Creating a welcoming and hospitable environment Did we succeed in creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere? How well did the topics chosen correspond to the needs and spiritual hunger of our young adults? Did the speakers address the topics in an intelligible and open way? Was there an environment for honest and open sharing in the small and large groups? Did the venue facilitate a welcoming atmosphere? Were the participants invited to fill out an evaluation and recommend future topics, etc.? Did we thank people for coming, and follow up after the events? This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 8.1 Evaluating the RENEW ToT Experience

93 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap d. Follow-up for RENEW ToT Did we create and work a plan for small Christian communities to take place after our series? Did we ask participants what types of follow-up activities they were interested in? Have we planned and begun to implement these activities? Were participants properly informed and invited to take part in SCCs and other follow-up activities? Did we keep an eye out for potential leaders of SCCs, other follow-up activities, and future RENEW ToT events? Have we invited them? Section 8.1 Evaluating the RENEW ToT Experience

94 RENEW TOT MANUAL 8.2 The Value & Importance of Small Christian Communities RENEW Theology on Tap serves as an invitation for a more comprehensive young adult ministry. If your program has been successful in its invitation and hospitality, the young adults will be hungry for more spiritual and social opportunities. Small Christian communities serve as the natural outgrowth of Theology on Tap events. Moving from RENEW ToT events into small Christian communities allow young adults the opportunity to find deep meaning, explore their faith further, and to gain a fuller understanding of the Church community. In turn, participants in the small communities become energized about further involvement in young adult activities. Small communities often give young adults a place where they feel at home in the Church, and will spur further interest in other follow-up opportunities. After each RENEW ToT a number of follow-up activities can take place, including small Christian communities. Today s young adults are constantly busy. Time for thinking, for reflection or for prayer might seem hard to come by. Participating in a small faith-sharing group is a special opportunity to discuss life, faith, and spirituality with people who are likely to become close friends. We ask you, the young adult leaders of RENEW ToT to extend this opportunity to your peers and to lead a group yourself. What happens at a SCC faith-sharing session? RENEW small Christian communities meet in a comfortable setting, such as someone s home or apartment, for 90 minutes each week for six to eight weeks. Each session begins with a moment of prayer. There is then a short reading from Scripture, followed by a theological reflection on the passage, and some questions for reflection. The heart of sharing takes place through reflecting on and breaking open the Word: each person is invited to express how this Scripture speaks to them and their life situation. Moving out from reflection, the group formulates propositions for action in the light of God s Word, whether as individuals or as a group. The sharing concludes with a short moment of prayer. Why do people participate in small Christian communities [SCCs]? To grow in faith. SCCs offer a place, a time and a method for joint exploration of shared faith, and for discovering and rebuilding the connection between my faith and my life. An honest and open exchange occurs about personal beliefs, common values, life situations and other deep questions in the light of faith the message of Scripture. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 8.2 The Value & Importance of SCCs

95 To build a personal spiritual life and to improve themselves. At whatever stage we may be in our faith pilgrimages, there is always room for improvement in our relationships with Christ. Belonging to a SCC encourages us to grow with the support of others. To meet new people, and to find and to build community. SCCs offer a chance to meet and have open and honest dialogue with other people who share many of the same values and hungers as you do. Praying with others and sharing Scripture together brings people closer. To talk about God. SCCs offer a place where people can explore their own spirituality, not as something removed and separate from life, but as a part of everyday life. This is done in a way that makes sense of questions like, What am I doing in this job?, What difference does my life make?, Who is God and what does it mean to be Catholic?, or What does it take to be really happy?. To put faith into action. Through Baptism, we are called to reach out to others, to help improve the quality of life for all. SCCs help us to identify ways to reach out, as well as giving us a community to support and sustain these outreach efforts. Edition This edition (# of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Section 8.2 The Value & Importance of SCC s

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97 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 8.3 Small Christian Communities: A Primary Follow-up The planning and creation of small Christian communities The Core Team will serve as the leaders for these small groups. Depending on the interest level of participants, you may have a few groups or many. Given that this is a primary outgrowth of RENEW ToT, throughout the series you will need to have promoted these groups, and invited participants to join. Immediately after the series, the interested participants should be invited to join one of the scheduled groups. There are several details to consider when planning for small Christian communities to follow the RENEW ToT series: what faith-sharing resource is going to be used? (RENEW International offers several faith-sharing resources, including one specifically for young adults for use in Advent and Lent, The Word on the Go. Another lectionary-based option which covers the whole year is PrayerTime. Please see for more information) who will make sure that faith-sharing materials are ordered and distributed? who is willing to lead the groups? what days/times will the various groups meet? who will contact interested participants, and place them in available groups? It is important that the small Christian communities begin immediately after the RENEW ToT series has concluded (the more time that elapses, the less inclined people will be to participate). Given this reality, it will be important for the Core Team to plan and create these communities while the RENEW ToT series is still occurring. Remember to collect names and contact information of people who might be interested and follow up with them after the events. While small Christian communities allow participants further involvement in young adult ministry, they are also an excellent opportunity to discern Core Team members for future RENEW ToT events, as well as leaders for other follow-up activities. Neither the RENEW ToT events, nor the small Christian communities are meant as stand-alone activities. These should be opportunities within a broader ministry that allow for many young adults to become actively involved. Some Core Team members will move away, become too busy, or have other opportunities arise; always be aware of what other young adults would be interested and engaged in helping further the young adult ministry in your area. By doing this, your young adult ministry will continue on into the future. >>> Section 8.3 SCC s, A Primary Follow Up

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99 RENEW TOT MANUAL Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap 8.4 Other Follow-Up Opportunities There are any number of follow-up activities that can further your young adult ministry program. Again, RENEW ToT is meant to serve as an introduction to a more comprehensive young adult ministry, and thus, with participants energized from RENEW ToT events and participation in small Christian communities, they will be looking for more opportunities to nurture their faith and grow in community. There are four general categories of church-related group activities: social, intellectual, spiritual and service. Your follow-up activities will fall into these various categories. It would be wise to offer a few activities from each, as this will help meet the diverse needs and wants of your young adult population. Most important, however, is to ask the participants what they are interested in and how you can help them. Social Activities Social activities are those done for enjoyment, which facilitate getting to know other young adults and give opportunities for community building. Activities in this category include parties, sporting events, theatre, or game nights, among others. Generally you will draw a larger group of participants to social activities than the other types of activities, so it might be wise to hold some sort of social activity soon after your RENEW ToT series finishes. This way, you might attract a good number of young adults looking for further participation, and then invite them to join other types of activities. Intellectual Activities Activities in this category stimulate the mind, offering young adults opportunities for further learning and growth. Activities in this category include book clubs, discussion groups or other opportunities for engagement and learning. A more structured adult religious education, with a stronger focus on catechesis is another option. Many participants in RENEW ToT want to learn more about their faith, especially after hearing the topics at the events, and further study and catechesis can fulfill that desire. Spiritual Activities These activities focus on meeting the spiritual needs and hunger of young adults. Young adults are yearning to further incorporate their experience with their faith; these activities can help nourish them. Activities include young adult Masses, retreats, days of reflection, and other prayer experiences. Talk to the participants at RENEW ToT events and see what they are yearning for, and try to meet those needs. Section 8.4 Other Follow-Up Opportunities

100 Service activities: Many young adults today have a strong desire to serve their fellow brothers and sisters. There are myriad service opportunities available, from working through outreach in the local parish or community, like food pantries, homeless shelters or social service agencies, to partnering with organizations like Habitat for Humanity. You might offer a number of different opportunities, some on-going, and others for a day or afternoon, allowing young adults with various schedules and time commitments to participate. Talk with the young adults and see what opportunities they might have in mind for service activities. There are a variety of outreach opportunities; also consider the web and its nearly limitless potential to connect and to continue outreach with the young adults in your area. One recommended web outreach is iibloom, a social network for young adult Catholics. iibloom is an online community for young adults that connects spirituality and everyday life. Consider this community and others as additional follow-up opportunities for young adults to engage, connect and grow in faith. Theology on Tap is an invitation to myriad ways to reach young adult Catholics. May it serve you well. This edition (# ) of the RENEW Theology on Tap Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap Edition Section 8.4 Other Follow-Up Opportunities

101 Edition This edition (# ) of the RENEW THEOLOGY ON TAP Manual RENEW Intenational on behalf of RENEW Theology on Tap RENEW THEOLOGY ON TAP MANUAL Appendix A Terms and Conditions of Use NOTICE TO USER Please read this Agreement carefully. By completing this online transaction you accept all the terms and conditions in this Agreement, including, in particular the limitations on use and transferability. You agree that this Agreement is like any written negotiated agreement signed by you. This Agreement is enforceable against you and any entity on whose behalf you are acting in making this online transaction. By proceeding with this online transaction you verify that you authorized to register membership to RENEW Theology on Tap on behalf of your parish/group. If you do not agree to the terms of this Agreement, do not proceed with the online transaction. SECTION ONE Terms and Conditions for implementing RENEW Theology on Tap You agree that your implementation of RENEW Theology on Tap must be geared toward and expressly presented as being for "young adults," namely, people in their 20s and 30s, married and single, with and without children. You agree to make very effort to create an inviting and hospitable environment; to place emphasis on personal invitation as the prime method of publicity for RENEW Theology on Tap; to set as your key objective offering RENEW Theology on Tap events that are comfortable and in a socially agreeable setting; you agree to organize a hospitality team to ensure that this objective is achieved. You acknowledge that RENEW Theology on Tap is a process of evangelization, and therefore implies a strategy for meeting young adults where they are and inviting them into the life of the Church. You agree therefore to arrange events around topics which address the needs of this "seeker" audience, those young adults who are interested in and curious about the Catholic faith. To this same end, you agree to choose as speakers: people who are well-informed in their field; who are personally respectful of Catholic teaching; and who possess a keen sense of the issues of ministering to young adults. >>> RENEW ToT MANUAL Appendix A Terms and Conditions of Use