Many books have been written about the faith development of young people. No doubt many more will be written. It's a subject that will never be exhausted. Youth and Present-Day Culture, Youth and the Church, The Spirituality of Young People. Writers come up with suggestions; prayer groups, listening groups. All wonderful in themselves, yet we still come back to the same question: "What are we going to do for young people?"

Since the papal visit to Ireland in 1979 various Diocesan Councils faced similar concerns and various worthwhile and imaginative initiatives were conducted in the arch-diocese to address the needs of the day.

Today in Armagh at the beginning of the 21st century a new Youth Council has emerged. Since 2002 we have been looking at the role of the Youth Council - its purpose, mission and priorities. The strategic plan is the result of our work.

We don't claim that this Strategic Plan will answer the spiritual needs of all young people. We don't claim to have the magic formula to guide young people towards a deeper commitment to Gospel values. However we will provide a strategy for change and we will do all in our power to carry out our aims and objectives.

Although we have performance indicators within each priority area, it is difficult to measure how many lives our Lord will change through our ministry. Nevertheless, we are confident that with your prayer and support along with the prayers of all the people in the archdiocese, more and more young people will "feel accepted, values and empowered to fully participate" in the life of the Church.

In the words of St. Paul:
May he who helps us when we refuse to give up, help you all to be tolerant with each other, following the example of Christ Jesus, so that united in mind and voice you may give glory to the god and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Romans 15:5-6

Rev Gerry Campbell (Chairman)