Answering the Call to Volunteer: Brian Schopp

Catholic Formation is a parish-wide team effort! We have many passionate, gifted volunteers from various backgrounds and occupations who give of themselves to help form our children, youth, and adults in the Catholic Faith. Highlighted over the next few weeks will be the testimonies of several volunteers who help make Catholic Formation the vibrant ministry that it is!

Brian Schopp: Warehousing & Logistics for Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Youth Ministry Small Group Leader

This will be my third year volunteering, and hands down my favorite part of serving in youth ministry is being able to help our youth discern their faith and prepare for Confirmation. 

Every small group session is a new encounter with God; I especially see Him in that ‘Ah ha’ moment for someone in the class. The biggest surprise to me is just how eager some of our youth have been to learn about our faith. The personal impact and growth from serving as a youth minister is unquantifiable, but I can say that I have learned something new about our faith every year. There is so much to know, and the Lumen Christi staff does a wonderful job breaking it down and formatting it in a way that makes teaching it manageable while also allowing you to bring your personal approach to the information/small group.

What would you tell someone who doesn't feel qualified to serve in youth ministry?
For those who feel uneasy or tentative about serving in youth ministry, I want to remind you, you will not be alone while facing those “scary” youths. Isaiah 41:10 “Do not fear, for I am with you”; Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ”. I personally pray a prayer that starts ‘Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love…’ before every small group session. 

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We want to grow our team of amazing volunteers in every area of Catholic Formation: Child, Youth, and Adult, from hall monitors, crafters, and special events to catechists, small group leaders, and subs. Ask the Holy Spirit if He might be inviting you to be part of these ministries that are truly life-changing - both for those who are served, and those who serve. Get in touch with any of our CF staff to start a conversation!