Well here we are, what I thought was going to be a short nine- or 10-part series on the Bishop’s document, "Renewing the Vision—A Framework for Catholic Youth Ministry," has turned into a regular column for me. But I am excited with this, as the Spirit continues to give me insight.

We have, however come to the end of RTV. Three goals, seven themes, and eight components later we have covered the main content of this document. So with this issue, I would like to offer a summary.

"Renewing the Vision" gives us three clear and concise goals for a comprehensive youth ministry program.

Goal 1:

To empower young people to live as disciples of Jesus Christ in our world today.

Goal 2:

To draw young people to responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic Faith Community.

Goal 3:

To foster the total personal and spiritual growth of each young person.

We have also been given eight components (advocacy, catechesis, community life, evangelization, justice and service, leadership development, pastoral care, and prayer and worship) that when focused on, help us reach these three goals. If we concentrate on these eight components, we realize that by moving more deeply into each of them the three goals can easily be reached.

To clarify this, most everyone knows that I am a true Green Bay Packer fan. Fell in love with them in the ’60s and have stuck with them through it all. In fact, as I write this on this Tuesday morning, I am still in denial over their loss to the Philadelphia Eagles last night on Monday Night Football.

Of course we all know that the legendary Vince Lombardi had many quotes, one of which has stuck with me. It seems to be very fitting for the conclusion of RTV.

He once said, "perfection is not attainable, but if we chase perfection we will reach excellence."

As baptized Catholics, our only goal is to obtain eternal life in Heaven. In doing this, we are helping God build the Kingdom here on earth.

If we take these words to heart and apply them to our youth and youth ministry, we are one step closer to reaching our goals. We must however, take this beyond our youth. As the Body of Christ, we are called to work together to build the Kingdom. Together then, let us each reach excellence.

Remember, Jesus said, "Your reward will be great in Heaven."