2.6 Workshop:

Can Catholic High Schools Encourage Faith?

Presenter: Mr Mark Smith, Archdiocesan Youth Ministry Coordinator, Sydney Catholic Education Office

This workshop will offer an overview on some recent research on what young people in schools in Sydney are saying about their expressions of religion and faith.

Participants will be invited to discuss topics in small groups offering their own input, reflections, and experiences. The topics include:

• New Ministries in School

• An explanation of four key school Mission areas that are becoming increasingly significant in Catholic High Schools, including a specific example for each:

• Immersion
• Community Outreach
• Small Group Faith Explorations
• Staff Formation

This workshop will aim to come up with a statement that we agree on that responds to the title question of the workshop – Can Catholic High Schools Encourage Faith?