Incredible programs are happening right here in the Diocese of Madison to engage youth during the summer and set their hearts on fire for God! Read on to learn about two of these great opportunities that embody the mission to go make disciples among our youth.
Totus Tuus
Totus Tuus, coming from the Latin meaning “Totally Yours,” is a summer Catholic youth program dedicated to sharing the Gospel and promoting the Catholic faith through evangelization, catechesis, Christian witness, and Eucharistic worship. Totus Tuus is not only about teaching the faith, but also igniting the hearts of the team members and young people. The result of this incredible program has been the formation of young adults throughout the nation who continue to dedicate themselves to the Church’s mission of evangelization.
Totus Tuus engages students in grades one to 12 in a week-long program that includes a mix of catechesis, prayer, skits, and fun activities ranging from big water fights to shaving cream wiffle ball. Each year focuses on different mysteries of the Rosary along with a different aspect of the catechism, rotating through a six year cycle. This year will focus on the Apostle’s Creed and the Glorious Mysteries. Kids become invested through the games and activities and have an opportunity to ask questions about various aspects of the faith.
Seminarian Barry Meinholtz said “It’s great to travel around the diocese and get to know the different areas. There are so many great relationships that come out of it for both staff and students. I loved coming back my second year and seeing how families are doing and watching all the growth that occurred spiritually.” He went on to say, “I would really encourage people to go — even if they’re hesitant about it or don’t know what to expect — just sign up! Reach out to your DRE or [priest] to talk about it. I promise it will be worthwhile.”
Love Begins Here
Love Begins Here (LBH) provides middle and high school youth with an opportunity to encounter Jesus Christ in a life changing way through week long, local mission trips where they live in Catholic community and continue His work on earth. Through small acts of service, missionaries are both drawing closer to the heart of Christ and bringing His love to others. St. Mother Teresa said it beautifully, “God has created us so we do small things with great love. I believe in that great love that comes, or should come, from our heart, should start at home: With my family, my neighbors across the street, those right next door. And this love should then reach everyone.” This is at the core of all the work done throughout a summer of LBH.
This amazing experience has led to the growth of many young people throughout the diocese. A sixth year missionary said, “Love Begins Here has been the highlight of my middle and high school years. I always take away more than I give, honestly. I know it’s about service, but LBH always helps me spiritually grow and create amazing friendships.”
To date, LBH has given more than 150,000 hours of service to those in need — materially and spiritually — in the Diocese of Madison. As one high school participant stated, “For me it gives so much hope for the future of our Church. To see young people on fire for Christ and for their faith means more to me than words can describe.”
We’re hiring
The missions of Totus Tuus and LBH would be impossible to accomplish without the generous service of our staff. You can be a part of these incredible, life changing programs as a missionary in the Diocese of Madison this summer! For Totus Tuus, we are still looking to hire a female staff member. If you are a post high school practicing Catholic with a heart for service and enjoy working with youth, this opportunity is perfect for you! To learn more about Totus Tuus and how to apply, visit madisondiocese.org/
totustuus or reach out to Sarah Stout at [email protected] or 608-821-3045.
For LBH, we are looking for five to eight Core Team members, who are at least 21 years old, practicing Catholics with a heart for mission, enjoy working with teens, and have a car that can be used on mission. Whether you are a gentle leader who shines Christ’s love with patient joy, or you have a boisterous personality that proclaims God’s goodness from the rooftops, all sorts of gifts are needed to serve the mission. If you are feeling called to serve Christ in an intentional and concrete way, submit an application! To learn more about LBH, registration information, or how to apply, visit madisondiocese.org/lovebeginshere
Questions? Reach out to Caroline Locke at [email protected] or 608-821-4578.