Professional Documents
Culture Documents
YOUTH CAMP
MANUAL
2009 Revised Edition
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 1
CHAPTER 1
ORGANIZING A YOUTH CAMP
A. THE CFC YFC YOUTH CAMP
The entry point to the Youth for Christ (YFC), the youth program of Couples for Christ
(CFC), is the Youth Camp. It is a two‐day, two‐night live‐in camp usually conducted during the
summer or semestral break to officially bring teenagers and/or youth into an experience with
Christ through YFC.
To fully appreciate the value of the Youth Camp and to make the most out of it, it must
be seen not just as a three‐day experience where the teenagers can have fun, (although this is
also important), but in the light of the overall objectives of the Youth Camp, so that the youth
can be joyful, responsible and fruitful men and women of God.
The Youth Camp is not an end in itself or an annual diversion for teenagers that will give
them something to do during the summer or semestral break, but it is the beginning of what
will, hopefully, be a lifetime commitment and journey with God.
The Youth Camp is a place where they will hear the Word of God proclaimed by other
youth like themselves in an environment of fun and excitement where they do not experience
any form of pressure from adults.
It is venue for the youth to form and build friendship with one another through sports
and games. It is an opportunity for them to share their ideas and experiences and entertain one
another in a wholesome environment, where Christian values are talked about and are actively
practiced.
It is the place where they will be stimulated and encouraged to develop their gifts and
potentials for leadership, as they are exposed to other youth who are actively involved in
service. This will give them opportunities to serve as speakers, facilitators, sports and games
coordinators, etc. This will also provide them opportunities to grow in other services that are
essential to their life as well.
B. THE CHALLENGES
For the Youth Camp to be successful, it is important for the team to be aware of the
challenges which they might encounter throughout the preparations:
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 4
1. Many teenagers will come to the camp due to the encouragement and/or pressure from
their parents. Because of this, the challenge to all the service team is to make the
participants enjoy every moment of the activity and let them feel comfortable and
welcomed.
2. The participants will be meeting a lot of people for the first time. Teenagers act
naturally and openly in the company of friends but take a while to warm up to new
faces. Having a Service Team will help make them feel at ease and welcome.
3. Some of the youth are difficult to handle. Some of them may even have serious
addictions to drugs and alcohol. Others will come with a rebellious spirit, while others
may be harboring serious resentments towards their parents and other people. For
these reasons, the presence of the Couple Coordinators in the Camp will play a very
important role. It is a general rule that there should always be a Couple Coordinator/s
(both husband and wife) assigned all throughout the duration of the youth camp. Their
pastoral role and spiritual role is significant in ensuring a smooth and successful camp.
4. Many teenagers will find difficulty in committing to the Lord, to the YFC Community, and
to the whole new way of life that is being offered to them. There will be a real fear of
giving up a lot of their attachments, to their established set of friends and to the regular
activities that they are accustomed to. This poses a real challenge to the team in as
much as making the Youth Camp fun and exciting, by always manifesting a joyful and
friendly spirit. The team must also come up with activities that appeal to and challenge
the youth who are full of energy and spirit. As to their spiritual commitment, we must
remember that the youth camp serves as our way of planting the seed of God’s love to
them. It is the start of our way of introducing Christ to them. The Camp is not the end
but the beginning of their life long journey with God. This seed will grow in its perfect
time according to the will of God for them. Let us not be frustrated if we don’t get the
expected outcome and commitment we want from them as long as we know that we
tried our best to make them experience God’s love all throughout the camp.
a. SHORT‐TERM OBJECTIVES:
1. Make the Youth Camp a fun, exciting and life‐giving experience to the youth.
2. Help the youth experience a life giving friendship, ever growing faith and renewal in
Christ.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 5
3. Help the youth experience healing and reconciliation with the immediate members
of their family, especially their parents, by introducing a special kind of love and
appreciation towards them. This is rooted in their sole love from God.
4. Give the youth the opportunity to make new friends in a healthy, nourishing,
creative and joyful environment.
5. Expose the participants to other youth who find joy and fulfillment in serving the
Lord and in serving one another at all times.
b. LONG‐TERM OBJECTIVES:
1. Make the Youth Camp the start of a life‐long process of conversion and
transformation in the life of the young.
2. By joining YFC, the youth are placed in a support environment where they can be
sustained in their Christian lives.
3. By joining YFC, they can sustain and develop the friendships that were established
during the camp.
4. They can also be supported in the renewed relationships that they have with their
parents and their family members.
5. To create a desire, as well as a real opportunity to develop the gifts and talents of
these youth in serving the Lord and in future Youth Camps.
6. Through the camp, they will hopefully go through the positive experience of the
Youth Camp that will remain a special memory that the youth may look back to and
draw strength throughout his or her life’s journey with Christ.
D. IMPORTANT CONDITIONS
Given the above objectives, both short and long‐term, it is important to make the
following conditions in planning and conducting YFC Youth Camps.
1. The YFC Youth Camp is the entry point to the CFC Youth for Christ Ministry. It should
not be conducted if there is no intention to invite the participants into YFC (although, it
is possible for some of them to decide not to). This is just to preclude the possibility of
making the Youth Camp an end in itself. The Youth Camp for that matter is not
conducted unless there is a real intent to establish YFC.
2. It is possible to invite children of non‐CFC members to the Youth Camp and for them to
eventually join YFC provided that the CFC YFC Youth Camp should be evangelistic in
nature. This activity is open to all Catholic youth ages 12‐21 years old. However, it is an
important consideration for the service team to start evangelizing the children of CFC.
3. The ideal site of a Youth Camp is a retreat area or a campsite where the youth can
stay‐in without disturbances or distractions. The venue should be a creative venue to
conduct all necessary and important components of the camp. It should be strategic and
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 6
conducive enough for the team to achieve all the goals and objectives of the camp. The
team should be sensitive to the financial means of the participants who will be
attending the camp as well.
a. It is possible to use school facilities during semestral and summer breaks, and for the
food to be catered by CFC members if this will significantly reduce the cost of the
Youth Camp.
b. It is possible to raise funds within the chapter or area, to help defray the cost of
those who do not have the means to pay the full amount in the Youth Camp.
c. The usual rule in CFC applies that no one should be deprived of experiencing the
Lord in any official activity because he or she does not have the means to pay.
4. Parents are to give written consent and to support the activities of the camp (e.g.
writing letters to their children). If the camp is in a site where there is an opportunity for
the youth to go swimming (e.g. beach, lake, or pool) or mountain climbing, a special
written consent from the parents should be presented before the team allows the youth
to engage in these activities.
5. For parish based and school based youth camp, a Parents’ Forum should be conducted
before the Youth Camp, where the team will explain the objectives, activities, schedule,
rules, provisions within the camp, as well as mention areas of concern in which the
parents can extend their support.
6. Normally, the team members serving in the Youth Camp are not expected to pay for
their accommodations. But, if they have the means and they would like to help, their
payments may be accepted. This will be discussed and agreed upon by the Coordinators
and members of the service team during the planning and preparation stages of the
camp.
E. PRACTICAL CONSIDERATIONS
1. Ideally, the initiative to organize the Youth Camp starts with the Area’s YFC Couple
Coordinator. (In starting areas, the area head will make the initiative in organizing the
Youth Camp). They can organize just for their area of responsibility if they have enough
youth participants to join the camp. They can also work with other YFC Couple
Coordinators for a joint Youth Camp.
c. Work out the dates and details, such as venue of the Youth Camp.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 7
d. Form the team of YFC members who will serve in the team ‐‐‐‐ these include the
Youth Camp Team Leader and his Assistant, Speakers, Facilitators, Music Ministry,
and Servants.
2. In the Camp, the Couple Coordinators allow the Youth Camp Team Leader and Assistant,
as well as the members of the Service Team, to lead the activities. The Couple
Coordinators oversee the activities and provides pastoral support, direction and
protection over the team.
3. Normally, the members of the team who stay‐in with the participants are the Couple
Coordinators, the Youth Camp Team Leader and his Assistant, the Camp Servants and
the Facilitators.
4. Other members of the team may stay‐in, if they offer to pay for their accommodations
or if there are enough funds to pay for them. They are, however, expected to be in all
the sessions and activities throughout the camp, even if they choose to sleep out.
5. During the Pray‐over Session, the team may ask support from other YFC members
provided that certain rules will be set for the safety of the YFC members going home
after the session during the late night session and entertainment night.
Note: The CFC Member/Couple Coordinators can help as prayer warriors and in leading
the rosary and prayer vigils during the pray‐over sessions.
6. Parents, one or both, are expected to send letters to their child/children and to come
during the Parent‐Youth Dialogue and Dedication ceremony on the last day of the camp.
This is also the special role of the couple coordinators in a youth camp. They are to
make sure that the involvement of the parents in the letter writing and ensure their
presence in the last day of the camp will happen.
7. It is the role of the Coordinator to ensure that before, during and after camp, they will
continue to develop a special relationship with the parents of the youth, to ensure the
continued support from them all throughout their journey with Christ.
8. A no‐smoking and no‐drinking rule will be observed by the participants, the Couple
Coordinators and all other members of the team for the duration of the camp. Service
team can also come up with a set of house rules to ensure that the youth camp will be
an efficient, effective and a safe one.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 8
CHAPTER 2
THE TEAM LEADER’S GUIDE
A. YOUTH CAMP GENERAL SCHEDULE OF ACTIVITIES
DAY 1 SCHEDULE
TIME ACTIVITY Person‐in‐charge Logistical Needs
5:00 – 5:30PM Service team meeting Team Leader Venue
5:30 – 6:30 Arrival/ Registration Table, chairs
6:30 – 6:45 Gather/ Teaching of Team Leader and Sound System, Guitar,
songs Music Ministry and Song Sheets
6:45 – 7:00 Orientation of Team leader Venue
participants
Orientation to parents Couple Coordinator Venue
7:00 – 8:00 Dinner Camp Servant Food, Dining Area
8:00 – 8:30 Gathering of Team Leader and Venue, Sound System,
participants/ Music Ministry Guitar, and Song
Teaching of songs Sheets
8:30 – 8:35 Opening Prayer Team Leader Sound System
8:35 – 8:45 Energizer/ Games Team Leader Sound System and
Games Materials
8:45 – 9:25 TALK 1‐ GOD'S LOVE Team Leader, Venue, Sound System,
AND HIS PLAN FOR US Speaker, and sharers. and Diagram
9:25 – 9:55 Group Discussion Team Leader and Venue and chairs
Facilitators
9:55 – 10:00 Announcements/ Team Leader Venue and Sound
Closing song (if System
desired)
10:00 – 11:00 Informal Fellowship Team Leader Sound System
11:00 Lights out Camp Servant Sleeping Areas
DAY 2 SCHEDULE
6:00 – 7:00AM Wake up call Camp Servant Bell
7:00 – 7:30 Breakfast Camp Servant Dining Area and Food
7:30 – 8:00 Teaching of Songs Team Leader and Venue, Sound System,
(One Slow and one Music Ministry Guitar, and Song
Fast) Sheets
8:00 – 8:30 Common Prayer Time Team Leader and
(include reflection) Music Ministry
8:30 – 8:50 Gathering participants Team Leader and
Opening Song and Music Ministry
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 9
Prayer
8:50 – 9:30 TALK 2 ‐ WHO IS JESUS Team Leader, Speaker, Venue and Sound
CHRIST TO ME? and Sharers System
9:30 – 10:00 Discussion Groups Team Leader and Venue
Facilitators
10:00 – 10:30 Break Food
10:30 – 10:45 Gathering of Team Leader and Venue, Sound System,
participants/ Opening Music Ministry Guitar, Song Sheets
Song and Prayer
10:45 – 11:30 TALK 3 ‐ Team Leader, Speaker Venue and Sound
REPENTANCE, FAITH, and Sharers System
HEALING,AND
FORGIVENESS
11:30 – 12:30PM LUNCH Camp Servant Dining Area and Food
12:30 – 1:00 Gathering and Team Leader and Venue, Sound System,
teaching of songs Music Ministry Guitar, Song Sheets
(One slow and one
fast)/ Orientation of
Facilitators for one to
ones session
1:00 – 2:00 Exhortation for the Team Leader
letter writing and
Letter writing
2:00 – 5:00 Confession (a Team Leader, Priests, Confession Area and
must)/One to Ones and Facilitators one on one Area
Session
5:00 – 6:30 Rest/ Fresh‐up/ Camp Servant and Venue and Guitar
Tongues Workshop Team Leader
6:30 – 7:30 Dinner Camp Servant Dining Area and Food
7:30 – 8:00 Gathering of Team Leader Venue, Sound System,
Participants/Opening Guitar, Song Sheets
Prayers
8:00 – 8:45 TALK 4‐ RECEIVING Team Leader and Venue and Sound
GOD'S GIFT: THE Speaker System
POWER OF THE HOLY
SPIRIT
8:45 – 9:00 Commitment to Christ Speaker
Ceremony
9:00 – 10:00 Pray over session/ Team Leader and Pray Over Area, Prayer
Worship Orientation Facilitators Warrior Area, and
Guitar
10:00 – 10:15 Group Worship Team Leader and Venue, Sound System,
Music Ministry Guitar, Song Sheets
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 10
DAY 3 SCHEDULE
7:00 – 8:00AM Breakfast Camp Servant Dining Area and Food
8:00 – 8:15 Gather/ Teach Songs Team Leader and Venue, Sound System,
Music Ministry Guitar, and Song
8:15 – 8:45 Worship / Common Team Leader Sheets
Prayer Time
8:45 – 10:00 TALK 5‐ GROWING IN Team Leader and
THE SPIRIT / LIFE Speaker
AND MISSION OF YFC
Parent’s Forum led by Couple Coordinator Large area with sets of
Couple Coordinator 3 chairs
10:00 – 10:30 Dialogue with Parents Team Leader
10:30 – 10:45 Pray over session Couple Coordinator Venue, Sound System,
and Team Leader Guitar, Song Sheets
10:45 – 11:15 Dedication Ceremony Team Leader and
Sharing of Participants Music Ministry
/ Praisefest
11:15 – 11:30 Preparation for Mass Couple Coordinator, Venue, Sound System,
Team Leader and Guitar, Song Sheets
Music Ministry
11:30 – 12:30PM MASS Priest and Music
Ministry
12:30 Lunch (if available) Team Leader Dining Area and Food
Sheets
12:00 – 1:00 Lunch Camp Servant Dining Area and Food
1:00 – 1:15 Gathering of Team Leader and Venue, Sound System,
participants / Music Ministry Guitar, and Song
Teaching of songs Sheets
1:15 – 1:30 Worship Team Leader and
Music Ministry
1:30 – 2:00 TALK 5‐ GROWING IN Team Leader,
THE SPIRIT / LIFE Speaker, and Sharer
AND MISSION OF
YFC
2:00 – 2:30 Dialogue with Parents Team Leader Large area with sets of
3 chairs
2:30 – 2:45 Pray over Session Couple Coordinator Venue, Sound System,
and Team Leader Guitar, and Song
2:45 – 3:15 Dedication Ceremony Team Leader and Sheets
Sharing of Participants Music Ministry
/ Praisefest
3:15 – 3:30 Preparation for Mass Couple Coordinator, Venue, Sound System,
Team Leader and Guitar, Song Sheets
Music Ministry and Mass Kit
3:30 – 4:30 MASS Priest and Music
Ministry
4:30 – 5:00 Pack‐up Camp Servant
5:00 HOME SWEET HOME
1. FUN
The camp contains activities that young people will enjoy. This should be an
opportunity for them to experience fun in a life‐giving and nourishing way. (E.g. games,
songs, talents workshop, entertainment, video presentations, skits, bonfire ‐ optional,
etc.)
2. FRIENDSHIP
The camp provides opportunities to strengthen old friendships and make new
ones. (The team leader initiates these by encouraging the team to get to know one
another and mingle with the participants).
Note: Many times, people join YFC (placing them in an environment where they
can grow in their faith) initially because of friendship they make in the camps, or
because of the faith of a friend in YFC. The service team is responsible in making sure
that all the participants equally experience healthy friendship.
3. FREEDOM
Nothing is ever imposed on the participants. This principle springs from the
basic belief that Christianity can only be lived out if it begins with a personal decision to
follow Christ (e.g. during pray‐over session, we don’t force the participants to commit to
Christ or to join YFC during the commitment ceremony)
4. FAITH
The camp provides the participants a lot of opportunities to learn more about
Jesus and grow in their Faith and relationship with Him (e.g. prayers, worship, talks, and
group discussions).
a. He must at least understand and uphold the 7 Identities of YFC by heart. The team
leader lives out all these values through his own witnessing and example.
b. He sees that the Youth Camp is not an end but the beginning of a process of growth
for the life of the participants.
c. He knows that follow up must be done after the camp (Covenant Orientation etc.)
and begins to make arrangements for this with the Couple Coordinator.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 13
Note: For new areas with no local YFC Chapter, he makes arrangements for YFC to
be set up. (The team leader therefore should be always ready with training manuals,
especially when going on mission).
d. He is always on the lookout for potential leaders and points them out to the Couple
Coordinators of the area.
a. He makes sure that others see what he sees. He is open to the leading of the Spirit
all throughout the camp especially suggestions and feedbacks from the service team
and their couple coordinators.
b. As the one who will be speaking in front of the participants most of the time, he
clarifies and makes sure that his co ‐ team leader, the Couple Coordinators/ School
Coordinator and the team have the same understanding that he has about
circumstances in the camp.
c. He finds ways to make the participants relate to the talks and sharing. These are
done through jokes, anecdotes, and examples from current movie and music trends
and illustrate these in terms familiar to the participants.
3. The Team Leader should strive to have a heart for God and His people.
b. The Assistant Leader is there to respond to the needs of the sisters and to provide
inputs in planning and conducting the camp.
The sister always stays in front so she can remind the brother team leader of
things that should have been said or coordinate with him on practical and
pastoral matters.
Note: There will be two camp servants; one for the brothers and the other for the
sisters.
Have one camp servant sit near the team leader for more effective coordination.
The other camp servant should be at the back, ready to bring inputs from the
Couple Coordinator.
c. The team leader and the assistant team leader together with their Couple
Coordinators work in consultation with each other for unity and provide focus for
the team.
d. The team leader and the assistant team leader should be prepared to give any of the
five talks.
Note: The service team should be the model/ example of following the schedule
of the camp.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 15
2. Both leaders can give inputs regarding practical and pastoral matters to the Couple
Coordinators and/or School Coordinator.
3. The team leader leads the team while the assistant team leader documents and takes
note of important things in the meeting and makes sure that all the details in the
camp are well executed and done.
b. Makes sure that the team knows what to do and actually does it.
Runs through the regular activities with the team before hand (e.g. one to
ones, pray‐ over session, tongues workshop).
Goes around during one to ones and baptism
Regularly supports and instructs the camp servants
c. Corrects the team if needed or give positive and negative feedback to the service
team at the end of each day. This will put order and focus on the goals that the
camp should have for the next day.
Corrects both the group as a whole or approaches individuals in the team for
more personal matters.
Corrects the participants in a brotherly or sisterly way through the
facilitators/ or the Couple Coordinators if needed.
Note: In situations that are highly personal, correction is done one to one,
brother to brother, sister to sister. The Couple Coordinators should course their
corrections toward the youth through the leaders.
d. The team leader and assistant team leader encourages and empowers the team.
Exhorts
Takes every opportunity to commend them.
e. The team leader and assistant team give advice to the members of the team.
c. Help the speaker in preparing for the talk (i.e. Pointing out the “practical tips in
giving talks” found in Chapter 3 of this manual).
d. Let the speaker know if time is “up” for the talk.
e. They listen to the speaker well so they can recap or further strengthen/ explain
important points of the talks.
5. Make sure that the four Fs (fun, friendship, freedom & faith) are used, exercised and
practiced properly.
6. Make sure that the 7 Identities of YFC is in the heart of every member of the service
team and in ever activity in the youth camp.
1. Conduct initial meetings between Youth Leaders and Couple Coordinators and/or school
administrators.
2. The team leaders, coordinators, and camp facility administrators should clarify and
agree on Camp rules (e.g. curfews, entertainment activities, bonfire, types of prayers ‐
Pray over session, noise level etc.).
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 17
3. Plan follow‐up activities to the camp (Activities will be the 1st Chapter Assembly of the
participants, Covenant Orientation schedule and 1st Household)
Note: Make sure that you will be able to announce at least one follow up activity before
the Youth Camp ends.
6. All service team should go to the Sacrament of the Holy Eucharist, Sacrament of
Communion and the Sacrament of Reconciliation before the youth camp.
7. Limit the number of service team. (It is more effective to have few equipped service
team than a large crowd so that everyone has a chance to serve and not just to visit the
camp.) Other Visitors or support group are only encourage to come during the
Entertainment Night and/or during the 4th Talk.
8. All potential Facilitators should undergo the Household Leaders’ Training since they will
be the future Household Heads of the new YFC. The Couple Coordinator should set the
time and place for these meetings.
9. All Service Team members should be at the campsite early to intercede and have an
ocular inspection of the place. Conduct worship and binding and casting upon arrival.
10. Make sure that there is enough number of participants in the camp—enough number
that the team can manage, can shoulder the food and accommodation of service team
members, can deliver the best quality of the camp, and can inspire the YFC and couple
coordinators to serve more.
CAMP PROPER:
1. Upon the arrival of the participants, there should be a welcome committee to assist
them going to their respective rooms, then to the session hall for registration.
2. Be sure to make the participants fill up the info sheets (2x2 pictures should be
submitted together with the info sheets for documentation purposes).
3. IDs should be given before the session starts and should be collected after the day.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 18
4. It is required that there will be a Youth Camp Kit (copy of songs, sheets of paper, and
ball pen).
6. Service team members must share the same room with the participants to control
things that should be addressed. (Lights off, vices, wake‐up call etc.).
7. All throughout the Camp, the meaning of songs should be well explained and taught.
10. It is highly recommended to have a creative presentation in every talk except during the
4th talk.
11. Ideally, the priest conducting the Holy Eucharist and Confession should be scheduled a
month before the Youth Camp.
1. The use of Candles during the ceremony is only an enhancer. The receiving of the Holy
Spirit can still push through even without it.
2. The Reflection songs during the “baptism ceremony” are also enhancers to bring the
participants into the solemnity of prayer and reflection. Let’s focus on the power of the
Holy Spirit than dwelling on other unnecessary drama for this session.
3. Every pray‐over station is God’s dwelling place. The Holy Spirit cannot be contained in
rosary and bible during pray‐over. The absence of it should not be a reason for the pray‐
over not to take place. (The Rosary and the Bible should be our Catholic symbols of faith
but should not be use for wrong religious practices or displays.)
4. The whole session 4 is a time for deep prayer. Prayer is best done in a bright
atmosphere; there is no need for us to turn off the lights. It is also important that we
conduct the pray‐over session in a conducive and well‐lighted room.
5. Prayer warriors should pray until the end of the pray‐over session.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 19
6. This 4th session is one of the most important part of the youth camp. One way of
preparing for it is to remind the service team and participants to dress appropriately.
(Although no dress code or color code is required)
7. There must be a crucifix inside the session hall throughout the Camp. This is a reminder
that the camp should be focused and centered on Christ.
8. During pray‐ over session, facilitators must not leave the place unattended.
9. The speaker for the 4th talk is a pastorally mature YFC brother, although exceptions can
be made if it is an all girls camp.
10. There should be a full worship to end the session instead of a praisefest after the pray‐
over session. (Refer to Talk 4 Expanded Talk Outline)
POST CAMP:
1. The Team Leader should conduct leaders training especially for new areas where
structures are not in place.
2. Make sure there are activities scheduled immediately after the camp which the
participants can look forward to (e.g. fellowships, chapter assemblies, households, etc.)
3. Prepare the facilitators to become Household Head. (Refer to Household Heads Training
Program. This should be done one month before the Youth Camp.)
5. Make sure that the Completion Report is filled out by the Couple Coordinators. (See
Annex)
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 20
7. There should also be a conscious and strong effort from the Coordinators and Team
Leaders to give an announcement of HH groupings after each camp to ensure that new
members will be sustained and will be taken cared of after the youth camp.
8. The information sheets will be filed by the Couple Coordinators. This will be handed to
the new coordinators when the YFC moves to another chapter, service, or program.
3. Purpose of Songs
a. Teaches us to pray and makes prayer more enjoyable.
b. Because songs are enjoyable, God’s message is received with the least resistance
from the participants.
c. Makes each activity participative.
d. Energizes the sessions (wakes people up).
e. Can be used to emphasize a point in any of the talks/ sharing’s.
f. Use as a means to gather people to start the sessions and assemblies.
4. Purpose of Humor
a. Makes participants listen/ enjoy the sessions.
b. Establishes support/ interaction between the team leader/ speaker and the
participants.
c. Makes a point easy to remember by the participants.
5. Purpose of Games
a. Makes sessions enjoyable.
b. Makes activities participative.
c. Energizes the camp.
1. Talk no.1 speaker is a YFC leader who can relate well with the youth and can capture the
attention of the participants. Someone who can give it in a lively and exciting way but
not losing the message of the talk.
2. Talk no. 2 speaker is a YFC leaders who has established a personal relationship with
Christ. Someone who have felt what it means to have a personal relationship with Christ
3. Talk no. 3 speaker is a YFC leader who has the integrity and conviction in advocating
100% PURE program. Someone whose story can talk about repentance, faith, healing
and forgiveness
4. Talk no. 4 speaker should be a YFC brother except for an ALL Girls camp.
1. Talk no. 1 sharer is someone who has experienced the love of God in small and
extravagant things.
2. Talk no. 2 sharer is someone who has felt how important his relationship with Jesus in
his life. Someone whose relationship with Jesus transcends other than being God; sees
Jesus as the father, hero, healer or miracle‐worker.
3. Talk no.3 sharer should be someone who has gone through the issues of the youth and
is now victorious of his/her conversion story and someone who can share about his/ her
love story with God from being good to better Christian.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 22
4. Talk no. 5 sharer should be someone who really used the tools in his/ her growth
towards holiness. (1 boy and 1 girl; one of them should have recently graduated in a
Youth Camp).
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 23
CHAPTER 3
THE YOUTH CAMP TALKS
A. THE GOSPEL MESSAGE
In this day and age when so many ideas abound and so many different philosophies are
taught, the youth are often placed in confusing situations. Many different influences around
them say what to run after and what to live for. Still in the budding idealism of their young
minds, the youth search for the truth that they can believe and live by. So often, however,
young people fall into whatever notion their peers invite them into, whether it is drugs or
drinking, being popular, being "in" or just simply living for the moment, still the thirst is there
for the truth—their hearts are restless for God.
It is in this situation that the Gospel message should be brought to the youth. A
message that speaks of God's love and mercy ‐‐ that in our sinfulness, He is always willing to
forgive us. And, if we come before Him and place our lives at His feet, our restlessness ends and
we begin to experience a new life with Him. It is this message which the talks in the Youth
Camp seek to share.
Some of the talks in the Youth Camp have more than one basic Gospel truth included.
These truths sometimes even overlap between two or three talks. The talks are given in this
way and order so as to help bring the participants through a process where they can make a
real and sincere decision to live a life pleasing to God through a personal relationship with Jesus
Christ by the power of His Holy Spirit.
The speaker should be able to realize that each talk, especially the one that he or she
will be giving, is part of one message; “God's love reaching out to man and man's choice to
respond to this love." (Refer to “The sessions and their Purpose” in Chapter 2 ‐Team leaders
Guide, to see how each talk flows to the next).
The speakers and Youth Camp Service Team should understand this flow to be able to
place them in the proper position where God can work through what they say and do, in order
to effectively help the participants make a decision to know, love and serve Jesus Christ.
D. FINAL TIPS
1. Married couples are discouraged from giving the talks in the Youth Camp.
We have to recognize the fact that it is easier of young people to be influenced
by their peers. No matter how true the message is, and even if the participants thirst
for this message, when older people (as in Parent age) speak to the youth, a natural
barrier often stands between them and the young people they are speaking to. These
speakers represent the parents of the participants—parents who may have damaged
relationships with their children. As a result adult speakers then begin to lose their
effectivity in sharing the Gospel to the youth.
different is when they realize that what we are saying is true and concrete because we
have actually experienced it.
Often jokes can even be made use as means to drive a certain point. In the same
way, anecdotes and stories are good means of explaining or stressing certain points in
your talk. Make use of stories. The youth like listening to stories. It is also possible to
make the points of your outline flow from a story to the next. Stories keep the interest
of young people and allow them to remember points that you made.
5. The presence of scriptural verses in the talk requires the speaker to prayerfully reflect
on the passages before giving the talk.
It would be better if these verses are narrated in the speaker’s own words.
Reading scripture verses word‐for‐word takes away eye contact between you and the
participants.
7. Undergo the Speaker’s Workshop (This can be found in the Youth Camp Training
Program of YFC).
8. To ensure that we maintain the interest of participants, let us use creative visual and
PowerPoint’s in giving the talks.
Visual media will help in sustaining the attention span of our participants and will
make them more interested to listen and remember the points in the talk.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 26
OBJECTIVES:
1. Let the participants realize that God loves them so much.
2. Let them be aware of the great plan of God in our lives.
3. Challenge them to respond to His love.
SPEAKER’S PROFILE:
1. A YFC leader who can relate well to the youth and can capture the attention of the
participants.
2. Someone who can give it in a lively and exciting way but not losing the message of the
talk.
SHARERS’ PROFILE:
(One brother and one sister will share in this talk)
Sharer 1 – A YFC member who has experienced the love of God in small things.
Sharer 2 – A YFC member who has experienced the love of God in extravagant way.
DYNAMICS:
1. After the youth camp orientation and dinner, the team leader gathers the participants
for the teaching of songs followed by an opening prayer and energizer. He will then
introduce the speaker.
2. Show the opening AVP presentation. This is optional; if the team can make a video that
depicts the current situation and issues in the society especially that concerns the youth
then they can show it.
3. Talk Proper
4. Just before the continuing to conclusion, the speaker will show Diagram 1 and then
Diagram 2 to emphasize more on the role of Jesus Christ.
5. After the conclusion, the speaker calls on the two sharers. Each sharer will be given 5‐7
minutes to share how they have experienced God’s love.
6. The speaker will lead the participants to a reflection how they have felt God’s love while
the music ministry plays the reflection song softly.
a. Song Profile: Song about God’s unconditional love for us
b. Suggested Song: Strong Arm or other song that is related to the talk. (Secular
songs that has the same message can also be used)
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7. Show the closing video presentation. This is optional; if the team can make a video that
shows all the beauty of creation and ends it with a statement: God made all these for
you, He truly loves you.
8. The speaker will now call the team leader. He will announce the discussion groups and
the respective facilitator. As soon as the names of the participants are called the
facilitator will gather them in an area conducive for discussion.
I. INTRODUCTION
(NOTE: The crazy dream exercise is done so that the speaker may have an
amusing way of making the participants realize God's tremendous love for them.
Just as the participants may have their own "crazy dreams" their own nearly
impossible hopes of things that are better, God has His own seemingly impossible
dream for us, "a plan for a future and a hope" in union with Him. It is this plan
for us that may be used to introduce God's love to the participants.)
1. Ask the participants about their greatest ambition or craziest dream. Give
them 30 seconds to do this. Allow 3‐5 persons to share.
This is God's crazy dream, His plan for us, "For I know well the plans I
have in mind for you, says the LORD, plans for your welfare, not for woe!
plans to give you a future full of hope." (Jeremiah 29:11). This is all because
of His great love for us. This is his great plan for us.
1. Plans for your welfare, not for woe. God is always after our wellbeing, our
happiness and safety. As God’s own, everything that comes from Him is
good. When He created us, He created us to last forever.
2. Plans to give you a future full of hope. As uncertain as the future is, God
guarantees us that not even a part of it will be in despair and that the whole
and everything in it is positive and desirable.
B. You may have your own reasons for being here (your friends are here, you want
to meet new friends, your parents forced you, you are truly seeking God).
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I believe God brought you here, to hear about His love, and His plan in your life.
You may be asking. “If God loves us so much, why are our lives and situations so
different from what He says His plans are for us?
Show the disparity between God's plan (Isaiah 65:17‐25) and the situation
around us.
On a larger scale (world): poverty (ex. people in other countries are
starving), same sex marriage, rampant teenage pregnancy, drug abuse,
abortion, global warming, etc.
On a local scale (in our country): state local issues relevant in your area
like drug addiction, corruption, street crime, etc.
On our self: insecurity, hatred, pessimism, doubt, peer pressure, etc.
In our families: we have broken relationships; some people we know
have broken families; sometimes we really don’t make time to spend
with them, sibling rivalry, etc.
They think that they are victims of their circumstances but must emphasize
that each of us has a CHOICE. Each of us is given a FREE WILL to choose a response
to any given situation, good or bad.
1. (Gen. 3:1‐21)
When our first parents chose to disobey, and rebel against God's
commands, they chose to turn away from God the source of all life. In doing
so, they chose death, and suffering. From the moment this happened, our
world that was full of life and blessing began to experience difficulties, pain,
suffering, and even death.
2. (Romans 6:23)
Even today, whenever we choose to go against God, (or the
authorities He has placed over us, e.g. parents, government and school
authorities), we continue to choose the suffering and death that our first
parents chose. (Mention specific experiences to bring your point across)
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Finally, He chose to send His only Son to die for us because He did not
want to see us suffer in our sin and die forever.
NOTE: Make use of the diagram to illustrate how Christ bridges the gap that sin
creates between God and man.
DIAGRAM 1: DIAGRAM 2:
Sin separates God from man. Christ bridges the separation
SIN
III. CONCLUSION
(Note: One way to challenge the participants to respond is to seek God during the camp,
to participate, but all the more, to receive God’s love and try to respond by desiring to
know about God and to live for Him.)
God has a seemingly insane love for us—a love that would suffer even death on
a cross. Even if you were the only one who needed saving, God would do it all for you.
Let’s respond to this love. Let’s decide to love God back.
(Optional: Show closing AVP presentation to enhance reflection activity and group
discussions.)
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OBJECTIVES:
1. Let the participants know who is Jesus Christ.
2. Identify who Jesus claimed to be.
3. Realize the best response to Jesus’ invitation of having a personal relationship with Him.
SPEAKER’S PROFILE:
1. A YFC leader who has established a personal relationship with Christ.
2. Someone who have felt what it means to have a personal relationship with Christ.
SHARERS’ PROFILE:
(There will be 2 sharers in this talk: One brother and one sister)
Sharer 1 – A YFC member who has felt how important his relationship with Jesus in his
life.
Sharer 2 – Someone whose relationship with Jesus transcends other than being God;
sees Jesus as the father, hero, healer or miracle‐worker.
DYNAMICS:
1. After the common prayer time, the team leader gathers the participants for the
teaching of songs followed by an opening song and prayer. He will then introduce the
speaker.
2. Talk Proper
3. Just before the conclusion, the speaker calls on the two sharers. Each sharer will be
given 5‐7 minutes to share who is Jesus Christ to them.
4. The speaker continues with the conclusion.
5. The speaker will lead the participants to a reflection on who is Jesus Christ to them and
their response to His invitation while the music ministry plays the reflection song softly.
a. Song profile: The general message of the song expresses the identity of Jesus.
b. Suggested songs: Above All
6. The team leader will then ask the participants to have their group discussion.
7. The groups will be given 30 minutes for the group discussion.
Discussion Starters:
a. Who is Jesus to you?
b. What can you do to respond to Jesus invitation of having a personal
relationship with Him?
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I. INTRODUCTION
When we hear of how great God's love is for us, many of us genuinely want to
respond to Him by loving Him back and living a life that's pleasing to Him.
However, it is difficult to live a life pleasing to God, if it lacks the most basic
factor, a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
Living the Christian life by our own strength is impossible. Only the strength we
have in Jesus can make this happen.
A. Impact in History
Like most religious leaders in His time, Jesus should have faded into oblivion,
forgotten in the pages of history. Yet no other person has affected history as much
as Jesus.
No other person has had as many books and stories written about him. The
book that tells His story, the Bible, has been the No. 1 bestseller, of all time.
Until today, Jesus of Nazareth is the most controversial, most popular, most
revered and most respected person that ever lived.
There are so many things said about this man. What was He really like?
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B. Misconceptions
1. Jesus is strange.
a. Some say he was some freak with new ideas. He said things like, "The first will
best..." and "Love your enemies".
b. He wasn't a freak, because so many were attracted to His personality that they
left everything to follow Him. (Mark 1:16‐20)
2. Jesus as a coward.
a. Others perceive him as a coward, a loser who gave into all his persecutions.
b. I wouldn't call Him coward or a loser since He was bold and courageous enough
to stand up against known authorities of His time. (Matthew 23:1‐27).
3. Jesus is boring.
a. Many say He lived a boring life because He was focused on saving the world and
didn’t have any fun or adventure
b. His life wasn’t boring because He met a lot of people and traveled to many
different places, performed great miracles, and had many close friends.
a. Others simply say, "He was a very unsuccessful leader ‐‐ talented. But
unsuccessful. After all, He got himself killed. Didn't he?"
b. Lastly, I would not consider Him unsuccessful, because 2,000 years after He first
preached His message, the Christian Faith remains to be the most widely
preached and received faith in the world today.
He took upon Himself qualities that belonged only to the person of God.
1. He claimed to possess all authority in Heaven and on Earth; a characteristic
that only one person can claim to have‐‐God. (Refer to Matthew 28:18)
2. He forgave sins;
The people during Jesus’ time strongly believed, that only God had
the authority to forgive sins. In Luke 5:17‐26, Christ showed just what kind of
authority he had.
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3. He claimed to give life (John 5:26); a power that only God has. In times of
difficulty I’m able to get through it, because He is my Source of strength and
He is always there for me.
The claims that Christ makes concerning Himself are so great and different from
the claims of other great teachers in history (i.e. Buddha, Confucius, and Mohammed),
that we just need to stop and seriously consider them because, our acceptance or
rejection of these claims greatly affect us.
A. If we begin to realize that the claims that Jesus made are false, then we should
forget Christianity altogether and even correct the great hoax that has deceived men
for 2000 years.
B. But if deep down we believe that Jesus’ claims are true, then we cannot just leave
Him in one corner of our lives like most people do.
In fact, we will have to begin to find a way to relate to Jesus as the Mighty God,
as the risen Savior that He really is. We will have to follow Him as Lord, and accept that
personal relationship He offers us today.
V. CONCLUSION
God loves you. That's pretty good news, but it gets even better. Not only does
He love you, but He wants to have a friendship with you. (John 15:13‐15)
Think about it. Jesus Christ wants to have a personal relationship with you. He
already knows you, and He wants you to know Him. (The speaker then leads the
participants to a reflection)
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OBJECTIVES:
1. Let the participants understand how to begin a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
2. Let them go through the steps by step processes in establishing a personal relationship
with Jesus Christ.
3. Give them basic understanding of repentance, faith, healing, and forgiveness.
SPEAKER’S PROFILE:
1. A YFC leader who has integrity and conviction in advocating 100% FREE program.
2. Someone whose story can talk about repentance, faith, healing and forgiveness.
SHARERS’ PROFILE:
(A brother and sister will share in this talk)
Sharer 1 – A YFC member who has gone through the issues of the youth and is now
victorious of his/her conversion story.
Sharer 2 – Someone who can share about his/ her love story with God from being good
to better Christian.
DYNAMICS:
1. After the break, the team leader gathers the participants for the teaching of songs
followed by an opening song and prayer. He will make sure that the participants have
pen and paper before introducing the speaker.
2. Opening activity: This is optional; if the team can come up with a creative skit or AVP
depicting various sins of humanity (global and local) then they can show it before the
speaker enters.
3. Talk Proper
4. Just after Part III‐B2 (how healing occurs), the speaker calls on the two sharers. Each
sharer will be given 5‐7 minutes to share their personal stories.
6. The speaker will lead the participants to Activity 1 and Activity 2 while the music
ministry plays the reflection song softly.
Activity 1: The Leader asks participants to write down the things that they want to give
up to God (sins, the people who have hurt them, people whom they have hurt)
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 36
Activity 2: Team Leader leads the participants to make 2 lists (list of people who hurt
them & list of people whom they hurt). They are then led to forgive those in the first list
and asked forgiveness for the second list. After that, the participants may be
encouraged to write a letter to their parents for the same purpose. The team leader
should make sure that this letter is completed during the third day’s prayer time.
7. Reflection Song
a. Song Profile: Song of surrender to the Lord
b. Suggested song: I Give My All
8. The team leader will ask the participants that the session has not ended yet. The
participants are encouraged to continue on reflecting while having lunch.
9. The service team should be discreet also and respect the reflection mode.
10. After having lunch, the team leader gathers the participants for the teaching of songs
(preferably a slow song).
11. The team Leader exhorts the participants for the letter‐writing activity.
12. The participants will not be pressured to finish the letter at that moment; they have
until the next day’s common prayer time to finish it.
13. The team leader will remind them the importance of the Sacrament of Reconciliation
and tell them that a priest is available for Confession.
14. While the participants are waiting for their turn for confession, their facilitators will now
conduct a one‐to‐one session with them
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 37
Optional opening activity: Creative Skit or AVP depicting various sins of humanity (global and
local)
I. INTRODUCTION
We have just heard of God's love for us, and how it brings us to the point where
we just have to decide for ourselves how we should respond to Him.
We have heard how He himself invites us into a personal relationship with Him.
In this talk, we will learn how we can begin to do this.
Christ began His preaching ministry with these words "The right time has come,
the kingdom of God is near, turn away from your sins and believe in the Gospel..."
(Mark 1:15), or repent and have faith. Christ used these words because repentance and
faith in Christ's message are the first steps we need to take to truly respond to God's
love and invitation for us.
A. Repentance
Sinfulness in our lives and the hurts we've experienced are hindrances in
coming to Christ and receiving His spirit. This is the reason why Christ called those
who came to Him to repentance.
b. Feeling regret
Repentance brought about only because of the consequence of
what was done, and the regret that comes with it.
2. What is Repentance?
a. Honesty
Call sin a sin. (e.g. Some say sin is a growth experience or that
cheating during exams is sharing)
b. Humility
Admit you fell into sin because you are weak. You need God to
overcome your sins. .
B. Have Faith!
1. We need to have faith that when we come to the Lord in repentance He will
forgive us and give us the strength to follow Him. “To have faith is to be sure of
the things we hope for; to be certain of the things we cannot see (Heb 11: 1).”
a. We place our trust in Christ, believing that He will conquer our sinfulness,
that He will forgive us and heal us of our sins.
b. Trusting, committing ourselves to the person of Christ.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 40
2. The characteristics of faith that we are talking about is shown in Matthew 14:22‐
33.
When Christ told Peter that he could walk on the water, although he
knew it was impossible, he still believed. In the same way, when Christ
promises that He will save us from our sins, we should believe that He can
and He will.
c. We should accept and believe in Christ as our personal Savior and in His
promises. (Acts 16:31, Luke 11:9‐11)
1. When we come before God and respond to Him, we first acknowledge our
sinfulness and come before Him in repentance and then in faith, ask for
forgiveness.
2. As we do this, we also ask Him to heal us, because these hurts, sinful ways are
obstacles which keep us from totally receiving God's grace.
Healing will not be complete if we haven't forgiven those who have hurt us,
especially if they're the ones closest to us.
1. Share how hurts in the different areas of our life listed below can hinder us from
drawing near to the Lord, and how forgiveness begins the process of healing.
2. Healing Occurs
a. When we forgive
b. When we ask for forgiveness
c. When we humbly ask God to heal us
d. When we serve others, focus more on helping others “heal” instead of
focusing on ourselves
IV. CONCLUSION
God wants us to experience the fullness of life in His love, by knowing Him.
However, our sins and hurts block much of His blessings for us.
Christ wants to remove these hindrances and extend His mercy towards us, but
we have to do our part and repent from these sins. We need to believe that He will
forgive and strengthen us and bring us healing.
Then we can fully receive God's blessing, His Holy Spirit which strengthens us
and allows us to live our lives as truly pleasing to God. We will hear more about this in
the next talk.
(The Team Leader conducts Activity 1 and 2. Refer to Team Leaders Handbook ‐
- “The Sessions and their Purpose” for the activity after this talk)
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OBJECTIVES:
1. Give the participants a basic understanding of the Holy Spirit and make them appreciate
its power and gifts.
2. Let them know how to receive and experience the power of the Holy Spirit.
3. Help them receive the power of the Holy Spirit through the pray‐over session.
4. Teach them how to praise and worship God.
SPEAKER’S PROFILE:
The speaker should be a brother who is also a YFC leader. A sister YFC leader can give
the talk if it is in an ALL girls youth camp.
DYNAMICS:
1. After dinner, the team leader gathers the participants and reminds them to dress
properly for the next session. He will lead the opening prayer with a song before
introducing the speaker.
2. Talk proper
3. After the conclusion, the speaker will explain and give some tips on the pray‐over
ceremony.
5. The speaker prepares the participants for the pray‐over ceremony and cues the
facilitators if they can now start with the ceremony.
6. After the participants are prayed‐over they are encouraged to stay in a prayerful mood.
7. As soon as all the participants are prayed over, the team leader will give a brief
explanation of what and how is worship done. (Refer to the Team Leaders’ Handbook)
8. Full Worship to be led by the team leader. The team leader will give the closing
exhortation.
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Note: The duration of the talk will be 30‐40 minutes. The Goal of the speaker is to make the
participants willing to receive the Holy Spirit and accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. It
would be better if the speaker can illustrate the bible verses of the talk. (refer to the main points
of the talk outline)
A. Christians today:
Christians today can't seem to live as they should; they seem weak, lacking
power. A lot of people today including the youth have forgotten to dream big and
just settle for less. Many people think that life is hopeless.
B. Christians before:
The Christians in the early Church possessed certain strength and boldness of
character, a power that attracted so many to join this group of fishermen, slaves,
Gentiles and Jews.
So many converts from different races, nations, social strata were brought
into their fold. By 325 AD, the Emperor of Rome himself became a Christian. And
today, it is the largest faith in the world.
What was this power that transformed 12 insignificant men and their
brethren into the pillars that established Christendom? It wasn't human might or
intellect, it was the Power of the Holy Spirit, the same Spirit that continues to fill and
transform the lives of so many Christians today.
A. Misconceptions:
1. God's messenger.
2. The dove in Christ's baptism.
B. The Holy Spirit is God, the 3rd Person in the Blessed Trinity who proceeds from the
Father and the Son. The Holy Spirit is equal to the Father and the Son because He
is God.
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God promised a spirit that will enable all men to follow Him. He
promised to give men "A new heart and a new Spirit...”
This story gives us a vision of what the Power of His Holy Spirit can do.
In scriptures, the wind is often used to refer to God’s Sprit. ‐‐ God’s Holy
Spirit can fill us and bring life, help us live as His sons and daughters.
When we receive the power of the Holy Spirit, we begin a personal and
intimate relationship with God. God’s word becomes alive in us as we read
scripture. We hear Him speaking to us in our hearts and we experience Him
touching our lives.
(Note: In sharing the 3 points above, the speaker should share his own
experiences of these 3 points.)
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A. The Coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1‐8) Narrate in your own words this passage.
Praying for the Baptism of the Holy Spirit may not be exactly like this event.
But we can take certain points from this event to help and guide us in receiving the
Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
a. These are gifts that God gives to help us in our Christian lives.
The gifts are wisdom, healing, miracles, prophecy, discernment,
faith, tongues, knowledge, and interpretation
Note: The speaker should explain all the gifts of the spirit but would give
emphasis on the Gift of Tongues. The explanation below is a reference for
the speaker on the different spiritual gifts.
Sin alienates us from God. When we refuse to be repentant for our sin,
we keep ourselves from experiencing God and His Spirit. This is why we need to
go to confession.
Keeps us from acknowledging our need for God, and asking Him into our
lives, but God will keep on knocking until we're humble enough to ask Him in.
Note: People are often willing to look foolish for other reasons, e.g.
concerts, basketball games, celebrities. We should be more willing to look foolish
for God.
5. Reliance on non‐Christian beliefs and objects (“I get strength from these
things”)
Example: amulets, “anting anting”, agimat, etc.
IV. CONCLUSION
Living the Christian life seems almost impossible. But we have a hope, a hope in
God's promise—His Holy Spirit which strengthens us and gives us the gifts we need in
order to live as true sons and daughters of God.
Note: Our next activity will be the commitment ceremony and pray over session.
Give the participant a general view of what they can expect. The Speaker must ask the
participants to stretch and exercise a bit to avoid people sleeping while the session is
ongoing.
Our purpose tonight is to ask the Lord for the power of His Holy spirit that
enables us to live as true Christians. To do this, we will first have to come before our
Lord, believe and accept Him as our personal Lord and Savior and commit our lives to
Him. After this, we will pray with one another for the Baptism of the Holy Spirit.
1. This is not a new baptism. We were all baptized when we became Catholics.
What we want to do now is to pray for one another so that we can immerse
ourselves in God's Spirit and be empowered as Christians.
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b. After this, your discussion group leaders will approach you and bring you
somewhere more conducive and private for the pray‐over.
Go back to your seat; we will end together once everyone has been
prayed for.
B. Final Tips
1. Relax.
Our pray over session, and your decision to follow the Lord, is very
important, but don't let this make you anxious. Relax and be at peace, this will
make it easier for you to open up to the Lord.
In speaking or praying in tongues, just focus on the Lord and praise Him.
What comes out of your mouth and how you praise God is up to Him.
4. Initiate.
God respects you, and won't force you to praise Him in tongues. You
have to initiate praying in a language you don't know, and then God will inspire
you and give you the words to say.
(e.g. Even if God has already inspired you to write a song, the song will
never be heard unless you actually pick‐up a guitar, play the tune and write the
words. In the same way, you have to begin praying in tongues by first initiating
it.)
Once you've run out of words to worship God, utter the first syllables
that comes into your mind and use this for worship.
Focus on worshipping God and not the words you use to worship,
then let God take control.
C. COMMITMENT CEREMONY
1. After the explanation, the speaker or team leader asks the participants to
meditate about all the talks.
2. While the participants are meditating, a meditative song may be played (e.g.
Here I am to Worship, Heaven). We recommend that there should only be one
song for reflection.
3. After the song is sung, the speaker asks those who want to make a commitment
to Christ to stand up. Then, the Prayer of Commitment is recited together.
COMMITMENT TO CHRIST
Leader: Do you renounce Satan and all wrongdoing?
Leader: Do you believe that Jesus is the Son of God, that He died to free you from sins
that He rose to bring you new life?
Leader: Do you choose to follow Jesus as your Lord, to love Him, honor Him and obey
Him?
PRAYER OF COMMITMENT
(Ask participants to repeat after you.)
Lord Jesus Christ,/ I want to belong to you from now on./ I want to be free / from the dominion
of darkness/ and the rule of Satan,/ and I want to enter into your kingdom/ and be part of your
people./ I will turn away from all wrong doing,/ and I will avoid everything/ that leads me to
wrongdoing./ I ask you to forgive/ all the sins that I have committed/ I offer my life to You,/
and I promise to obey you as my Lord.
4. Everyone is then asked to be seated, and wait for their turn to be prayed over.
1. Some may have prayed in tongues, cried or simply felt God's presence. Others
may have had a very simple experience. The Holy Spirit comes to each of us
differently.
2. An emotional experience is not an indication of God's Holy Spirit. Rather, focus
on the fact, that you committed yourself to Jesus Christ and that is the most
important. If you asked for His Spirit, whatever experience you had, He surely
gave it to you.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 51
He will never cease in trying to take away the treasure you have just received
today. (The speaker should give an example on how Satan will tempt them to
doubt.)
Focus on the truth. Now you have God and through all your problems, He
will always be there. And these problems will never overwhelm you.
1. All of these things were first explained to you before they were done. Don't
expect your friends to understand you.
2. Try to explain what you went through in a very ordinary and understandable
way. Better yet, share to them what you experienced by showing the change in
you as Christ begins to dwell at the center of your life.
1. Like any gift, the gift you received tonight can be lost, so use it.
2. You committed to follow the Lord, be faithful to that decision.
3. Have a daily prayer time where you can experience and get to know God and
where He can slowly but surely work in your life daily.
VIII. CONCLUSION
“When the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will be filled with power and you
will be witnesses for Me in Jerusalem in all of Judea and Samaria and to the ends of
the earth.” Acts 1:8
OBJECTIVES:
1. Help the participants sustain and deepen their personal relationship with God through
the tools for Christian Growth.
2. Invite the participant to YFC Community.
3. Introduce them to the covenant of YFC.
SPEAKER’S PROFILE:
1. A YFC leader who is a well‐experienced in the community.
2. His/her growth in YFC should be very evident in his service and life.
3. He/ She should be a person who walks his/ her talk.
SHARERS’ PROFILE:
(1 brother and 1 sister; one of them should have recently graduated in a Youth Camp)
A YFC member who really used the tools in his/ her growth towards holiness.
DYNAMICS:
1. After the common prayer time, the team leader gathers the participants and collects the
letter. He will lead the opening prayer with a song before introducing the speaker.
2. Talk proper
3. While the talk is going on, the parents are gathered in a separate room where they
cannot be seen. They will be briefed of what is going to happen next.
4. Just before the conclusion, the speaker calls on the two sharers. Each sharer will be
given 2‐5 minutes to share how they have used the tools in their Christian growth.
6. The team leader will set the mood and distribute the letters from their parents at the
same time in the parents’ area the letters from the participants are also distributed.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 53
7. The parents will be called over to spend 30 minutes alone with their children with the
following discussion starter:
a. Read the letters.
b. Verbalize what is in the letter.
c. Ask forgiveness from each other.
d. Express gratitude to each other.
8. The team leader gathers everyone in the session hall and conducts the Pray‐over.
9. The team leader reads to them the covenant of YFC and invites them to YFC. Those who
want to join YFC will be asked to stand up and participate in the Dedication Ceremony.
10. A sharing of experiences from the participants, service team or parents will then follow.
12. The team leader will announce the next HH meeting and the next activity of the chapter.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 54
I. INTRODUCTION
We have heard a lot of good things in this camp, God's love, His salvation, and
received His Holy Spirit. All of us in one way or another have experienced God's
goodness this weekend. But after all these, what do we do next?
In this talk, we'd like to share with you what we can do to sustain our new found
relationship with God.
We know, clearly now more than ever, that God's love is real. That the Holy
Spirit is real and that He is truly in us. God is truly good. All His plans for us are for our
own good.
But what happens after this Camp when all of us are no longer in this exciting
environment? What happens when we go back to our friends at home or classmates in
school who do not understand what we have gone through—friends who might even
convince us that what we have gone through is weird and out of this world?
3. We need to grow.
We need to realize that we have to invest time and effort learning the
tools to growth and support pillars to preserve what we have and to receive
much more.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 55
All the tools to Christian Growth are available when you join Youth for Christ.
NOTE: You can illustrate this portion by likening the tools of Christian growth
to the four spokes of the wheel. The wheel represents our Christian life which draws
power from the center of the wheel, or the hub, which represents Christ. The power
is transmitted through the four spokes of the wheel. If any one of the four spokes is
missing, the wheel will not function.
2. Fellowship
It is in our nature to enjoy the company of people our age. It is for this
reason that teenagers have their own groups in the neighborhood, and
fraternities and sororities in school.
b. The YFC provides a real environment where genuine friendship can happen.
c. The YFC is a place where building strong bonds friendship and brotherhood are
considered as important goals of its activities.
3. Service
a. When we are given the opportunity to serve, we grow in our relationship with God.
Youth are endowed with a lot of talents and energies that oftentimes are not
tapped for productive use, especially in serving God. We have a lot of
opportunities to serve such as YCOM (YFC Communications). A special
program that involves events, music min etc.
Youth are the hope of today. We are called to love the poor and move
towards nation building. We have this good news called CFC ANCOP. (ANCOP
is our community’s work with the poor. ANCOP Stands for “ANSWERING THE
CRY OF THE POOR”)
In addition to all these tools that we could use in our Christian growth, we should
be aware that another important tool to further enhance this growth is to participate in
the sacraments of the Church. (e.g. attending mass on Sundays, having a regular
confession).
Note: The speaker should give focus on the sacraments that the youth can
receive and mentions the other sacraments. The explanation below is just a reference
for the speaker on the Seven Sacraments.
a. Baptism
We were baptized in order to be saved. (John 3:5). The original sin is
forgiven. We become children of God and members of the church.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 57
b. Reconciliation
(John 20:22‐23) All of us need the sacrament of penance, because all of us
are sinners. (1John1:8‐9). We cannot say that there is no need to confess our sins to
the priest, and that we can confess our sins straight to God (Matthew 16:19).
Penance remits all sins, and gives us the sanctifying grace.
c. Holy Eucharist
(Mark 14:22‐24) We receive the body and blood of Christ. We are in
communion with the Church and we receive eternal life.
d. Confirmation
(Acts 2:1‐4 and Acts 19:6) We receive the Holy Spirit and become soldier of
Christ.
e. Marriage
(Matthew 19:5) Covenant of love between a man and a woman.
f. Holy Orders
(Luke 22:19‐20) When we receive the vocation from the Lord we should have
the courage to abandon everything and follow Him.
III. CONCLUSION
God calls us to live a life that is pleasing to Him. He loved us first, He has already
died for us, He has given us His Holy Spirit, but even more, He gives us tools that we can
use to grow in our relationship with Him. The challenge is left to us. . ."will we respond
to that call?"
We're not saying that after giving through this youth camp, we'll be living perfect
Christian lives. We'll be probably fall but it's standing up those matters most. After all,
it's faithfulness, not success that God wants.
God died for us, now it's time we live for Him.
I am the vine, you are the branches. Whoever remains in me and I in Him will
bear much fruit, because without me you can do nothing. John 15:5
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 58
PARENTS DIALOGUE
Ask parents to spend 30 minutes alone with their children. Ask them to begin the dialogue by
giving / reading to each other the letters that they prepared.
Discussion Starter:
a. Read the letters
b. Verbalize what is in the letter
c. Ask forgiveness from each other
d. Express gratitude to each other
Note: It is advisable to insert a time where the participants will be able to share their
experiences in the camp
PRAY OVER
1. After the dialogue, the team leader explains the pray over session. Ask parents to go to
their children and pray over them using this prayer.
Note: Choose a parent and a child from the participants to lead the pray over.
(You may ask the parents to first say their own prayers for their children and then repeat
after the prayer below).
God has given you to me,/ (name of child) / as a gift/ to love and to guide./ I wish all
good things for you./ Forgive me for any hurts that I may have given you./ As I forgive you/ of
the hurts you may have given me./ I now call upon you God's blessings./ May the Lord bless
you and keep you./ May the Lord make His face shine upon you/ and be gracious unto you./
May the Lord lift up His countenance upon you/ and give you peace. Amen.
a. (To the participants) We believe that the people who love you the most are your
parents. But as they have striven in their own way, to express this love they may
have made mistakes. Often, our resentments stem from this.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 59
b. If we are to live a Christian life, we must first ask the Lord to heal these hurts
between our parents and ourselves.
c. Ask participants to pray over their parents. (Follow the same format that was done
when the parents prayed over their children).
God has given you to me, / (Papa and Mama or Dad and Mom) / as my guides in His
place/ here on earth. / I know that you love me / and in your love / you may have committed
mistakes / that hurt me. / I forgive you for these./ I want you to know/ that I love you/ and ask
for forgiveness/ for all the hurts/ I have given you./ May God bless you in everything you do./
This I pray / in the name of Jesus Christ/ my Lord and Savior./ Amen.
DEDICATION CEREMONY
NOTE: The team leader will conduct the dedication ceremony. This portion is done immediately
after the Pray‐Over Session of the Parents and Child/children. The parents will be asked to
witness their child/children in the dedication ceremony.
I. "Living out the Christian life is not easy. We need an environment that can support us in
this. It is in to this that YFC would like to help."
II. "Many of us through God's grace, and with the help of the brothers and sisters have
been helped in our commitment to Christ because of the environment we have in YFC.
We would like to invite you to join us where we can continue support one another."
A. Read first to the participants the YFC Statement of Commitment. (Inside the YFC ID)
B. A YFC ID will be given to all the participants by the service team.
C. The Music Ministry will play one reflection song while the participants go through
the YFC Statement of Commitment.
D. After they read the entire Commitment once, the team leader will ask the
participants to recite the Commitment (you may do this by reading a line at a time
and asking them to repeat after you).
III. Some participants may feel discouraged to join YFC upon hearing the difficult demands
of the Statement of Commitment. This happens when living out this commitment
perfectly is perceived to be a prerequisite in becoming a member. It should be made
clear that the Statement of Commitment is simply a goal. To agree with this
Commitment means supporting one another as we try to achieve this goal.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 60
I will spend time in prayer where I can grow in loving, honoring and serving Him.
I will learn and grow in living out these ideals and principles of my Lord Jesus.
I believe that my body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. I will not dishonor the
Lord through drunkenness, drugs or immorality.
I will participate actively in the life of my Church.
I will show love and loyalty to the Lord and to my school by being a good
student.
I will take responsibility in my studies.
I will respect school authorities.
I will serve my classmates and build good relationships in school.
I will relate in love and loyalty to the brothers and sisters from other schools,
cities, provinces, states and countries.
I will serve the Lord in YFC in whatever way I can, whenever, wherever the Lord
chooses to call me.
I will follow the directions of my elders and leaders in YFC.
IV. The speaker or the team leader presents participants to parents explaining that their
child/children have just made their commitment to live a Christian Life. The team leader
will encourage the parents to support their child/children in the commitment they have
made.
Note:
Have an appropriate song played at this time. (E.g. Welcome to the Family)
3. Wearing your official YFC identification card (I.D.) in all YFC activities or any CFC
community related activity.
VI. SHARING
(From the participants, parents and service team)
VII. PRAISEFEST
VIII. ANNOUNCEMENTS
HH groupings
Next Activity
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 62
Dear Parents,
Christ's Peace be with you!
The success of this program largely depends on your involvement especially after the camp. In
this regard, we would like to share with you and the other parents more features of the YFC
program through the parent’s orientation scheduled on to be
held at the Youth Camp venue.
The camp fee of will cover complete board and lodging and camp materials. Please
let us know if there are any financial constraints, so we can make arrangements for your child
ahead of time. Registration for the Youth Camp will be from to of the
first day.
Your children are enjoined to bring clothing provisions good for two nights and two days. Also,
if desired, your children may bring additional snacks. Kindly accomplish the attached reply form
and information sheet so we include your child in the list of participants. We are looking
forward to seeing you and your child (children) at the camp.
Thank you and God bless!
Yours in Christ,
I/We regret that our child (children) cannot attend for the following reasons:
GUARDIAN’S SIGNATURE
(Over printed name. State relationship to participant)
Address:
Tel. # :
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 64
I. General Information
Name: Nickname:
(Surname) (Given name) (m.i)
Address:
A. VENUE:
Tel.#
Address :( Include map if needed):
1. Camp Fee:
2. Number of Participants:
3. Food Provisions:
4. Contact Person:
Tel.#:
B. MATERIALS
1. Songbooks/Song sheets 3. First Aid and medicine
2. Whiteboard w/ marker or 4. Bell
Blackboard w/ chalk or 5. Emergency Lights
overhead projector 6. Sound System/ microphones
a. Registration materials: 7. YFC Covenant Ids
b. Information sheets 8. Youth Camp Manual
c. Official receipt and cash 9. Holy Bible
box 10. Crucifix
d. Pentel pens, ball pens, 11. Candles
paper 12. Novelty Table
e. Envelopes 13. Youth Camp Completion
f. Tape Report
g. Scissors 14. Others
h. Stapler
i. Youth Camp ID’s for
participants
C. SERVICE TEAM
Team Leader:
Assistant Team Leader:
Camp Servants:
Couple Coordinator(s):
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 66
SPEAKERS SHARERS
Talk 1: 1.
2.
Talk 2 1.
2.
Talk 3 1.
2.
Talk 4:
Talk 5: 1
2.
Registration Table
Brothers Sisters
Music Ministry:
1. 5.
2. 6.
3. 7.
4. 8.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 67
Confession:
Priest(s):
Who will pick up priest?
Address:
Phone #:
Holy Mass:
Priest(s):
Who will pick up priest?:
Address:
Phone # :
Commentator:
Offerers:
Ist Reading
2nd Reading:
Collection Basket (2):
C. OTHERS
1. Nearest Doctor:
Phone # :
Address:
2. Nurse in Camp:
Phone # :
Bonfire set‐up:
Person in Charge :
Firewood
food
matches
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 68
Main Objective:
1. For the parents to have a better understanding of the mission and vision of CFC Youth
for Christ
2. To be informed of the dynamics and activities following the camp.
I. Opening Prayer
to be lead by CFC YFC Coordinator
II. Brief history YFC
How it started, Four F’s: Fun, Friendship, Freedom and Faith, mission and
vision, etc.
III. Share what their child/children will experience during the camp
IV. YFC Sharer
allow one YFC service team member/FTW to share briefly their experience in
YFC
V. Follow‐up
Inform the parents about the activities happening on the next coming days of
the camp and the various post camp activities such as Household meetings,
assemblies.
They should also be asked to write a letter to their children which they will
bring on the last day of the camp.
VI. Q&A
open forum for parents to ask questions
VII. Closing prayer
Service team member or FTW to end in prayer
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 69
Note: The Team Leader/ Fulltime worker/ MV / KASANGGA member can give the tongues
workshop. This should be conducted before the 4th session.
Gift of Tongues
I. Introduction
Share the Story of “The Upper Room Experience” in Acts 2. The apostles prayed
in Tongues and received the power of the Holy Spirit. After that the rest was history,
they made a difference in this world. With the leading of the Holy Spirit through the
apostles the whole world knew Christ. Do you want to make a difference with the power
of the Holy Spirit? In this Workshop may we just humble ourselves like a child open to
receive a Gift. It’s up to you!
IV. Worship
Exhort them into worship where they can pray in Tongues
Suggested Flow:
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 70
1. 2 Fast Praise Songs (Suggested songs: God is enough, Redeeming Love etc.)
2. 2 Slow Worship Songs (Suggested songs: Spirit of the living God, I give my all etc.)
V. Processing
On the last day of the camp, the parents of the participants are advised to come. While
the last talk is given in the session hall the parents are also gathered in a separate room,
preferably in a room where they will not be seen by their children. The following will be done in
the Parent’s room.
Note:
As the parents arrive, the facilitators will have to collect the letters to their children. Be
ready to provide some pen and papers to those parents who have forgotten to write.
Before starting, the team leader should have collected all the letters from the
participants to their parents.
I. Opening Prayer
II. Review of what happened since the start of the Youth Camp
(Cite significant observation and sharing in the camp)
III. Check the letters of the parents to their children
IV. Explain to them what will happen next and why their presence is important
A. Dialogue with their parents
Discussion Starter:
1. Read the letters
2. Verbalize what is in the letter
3. Ask forgiveness from each other
4. Express gratitude to each other
B. Pray‐over
C. Dedication Ceremony (invitation to YFC)
V. Entertain some question
(While waiting for the cue to distribute the letters to the parents)
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 72
SECTOR/CLUSTER/CHAPTER:
e.g. North1A
Team Leaders:
Couple Coordinators:
Expected number of Participants:
SERVICE TEAM:
Camp Servants:
Facilitators:
Music Ministry:
Registration:
Logistics:
Speakers: Sharers:
Talk 1 a
b
Talk 2 a
b
Talk 3 a
b
Talk 4
Talk 5 a
b
Budget:
Time Starts: Time Ends:
Approved By:
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 72
Officiating Priest:
Name Contact Numbers Address
Camp Servant
preparations
general services
Facilitators
Prayer Warrior
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 74
Program Committee
Speakers
sharers
games
E Night
Music Ministry
Secretariat
dissemination of
information
Parents Orientation
Others
Follow up Activities
Activity Date Venue
Covenant Orientation
First Chapter Assembly
(other activities e.g. family
focused)
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 75
Facilitators:
Gender Name Age
Male
Female
Participants
Attendance:
Total Number Male Female
Female
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 76
CONTENT
CHAPTER 1
The Sessions, Activities and Their Purpose
I. Orientation Session
Sets the tone for the camp.
Clarifies expectations and the house rules.
Note: It is during this time that the “In His Steps Prayer Journal” should be
introduced.
Activity 1: The Leader asks participants to write down the things that they want to
give up to God (sins, the people who have hurt them, people whom they have hurt)
Activity 2: Team Leader leads the participants to make 2 lists (list of people who hurt
them & list of people whom they hurt). They are then led to forgive those in the first
list and asked forgiveness for the second list. After that, the participants may be
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 78
encouraged to write a letter to their parents for the same purpose. The team leader
should make sure that this letter is completed during the third day’s prayer time.
X. Talk 5: Growing in the Spirit, Dedication to the Life and Mission of CFC Youth for
Christ.
Equips the participants with the knowledge of how to grow in their relationship
with God.
The session should be conducted in a prayer meeting format (there should be
full worship before the session). This further imparts the YFC culture to the
participants in showing what an assembly is like. It is in this session that the
reading of letters, participant’s dialogue with parents, praying over each other
and invitation to YFC will happen.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 79
CHAPTER 2
Youth Camp Orientation
Orientation Dynamics
I. Goals
A. To officially welcome the participants
B. To set the expectations in the Youth Camp
C. To know certain attitudes to take in the whole duration of the Youth Camp
D. To introduce the Service Team of the Youth Camp
II. Guidelines
A. This will be given before the first session
B. Since this is the first gathering of the participants, it should be delivered in a light
and friendly atmosphere.
C. All the service team members should be present when they are introduced and
should be wearing their IDs.
D. The orientation will be given by the speaker while the camp servants will be called
upon for the house rules and other practical reminders.
Orientation Outline
II. Expectations
A. What the participants may expect
1. Meet new friends
2. Have fun
3. Know more about God and grow close to Him
4. Give a general picture of what the camp will be like (e.g. fun, friends,
talk...etc.)
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 80
[Note: A lot of people have different expectations about this Camp. Some may
know that it’s something like a Life in the Spirit Seminar. Some expect to cry or
have an emotional experience while some may have no expectations at all.
Others may expect to come to great revelations or may expect to be helped in
making big decisions. Although, these may happen, these are not the goals that
we are aiming for. Rather, if they come out of this Camp being able to say that
they know God a little bit more, that they are closer to Him even more then, they
have reached the goal of the Camp.]
IV. Ask everyone to move into the dining hall for dinner.
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 81
CHAPTER 3
Worship during the Camp
What is Worship?
Worship is being able to come before the presence of GOD and being able to
acknowledge that he alone is GOD. We are created to worship and glorify him. In glorifying him
we sing songs of praise and worship. As said by St. Augustine “he who sings praise twice”. We
can Jump and dance like David as he celebrate God’s love in the book of Psalm. We can raise up
our hands as we surrender our lives in prayer.
Worship Format
CHAPTER 4
Guidelines in the Parents’ Area Briefing
(This will be conducted by the Couple Coordinator)
On the last day of the camp, the parents of the participants are advised to come. While the last
talk is given in the session hall the parents are also gathered in a separate room, preferably in a
room where they will not be seen by their children. The following will be done in the Parent’s
room.
Note:
As the parents arrive, the facilitators will have to collect the letters to their children. Be ready to
provide some pen and papers to those parents who have forgotten to write.
Before starting, the team leader should have collected all the letters from the participants to
their parents.
I. Opening Prayer
II. Review of what happened since the start of the Youth Camp
III. (Cite significant observation and sharing in the camp)
IV. Check the letters of the parents to their children
V. Explain to them what will happen next and why their presence is important
VI. Dialogue with their parents
Discussion Starter:
A. Read the letters
B. Verbalize what is in the letter
C. Ask forgiveness from each other
D. Express gratitude to each other
V. Pray‐over
VI. Dedication Ceremony (invitation to YFC)
VII. Entertain some question
(While waiting for the cue to distribute the letters to the parents)
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 83
SECTOR/CLUSTER/CHAPTER:
e.g. North1A
Team Leaders:
Couple Coordinators:
Expected number of Participants:
SERVICE TEAM:
Camp Servants:
Facilitators:
Music Ministry:
Registration:
Logistics:
Speakers: Sharers:
Talk 1 a
b
Talk 2 a
b
Talk 3 a
b
Talk 4
Talk 5 a
b
Budget:
Time Starts: Time Ends:
Approved By:
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 83
Officiating Priest:
Name Contact Numbers Address
Camp Servant
preparations
general services
Facilitators
Prayer Warrior
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 85
Program Committee
Speakers
sharers
games
E Night
Music Ministry
Secretariat
dissemination of
information
Parents Orientation
Others
Follow up Activities
Activity Date Venue
Covenant Orientation
First Chapter Assembly
(other activities e.g. family
focused)
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 86
Facilitators:
Gender Name Age
Male
Female
Participants
Attendance:
Total Number Male Female
Female
CFC Youth for Christ YEAR 1: YOUTH CAMP MANUAL (2009 Edition) 87
TABLE OF CONTENTS
CHAPTER 1
Discussion Group Guide
Group discussions take place after the first talk and after the second talk. This allows
further understanding of God’s message; especially through personal sharing’s within the
group.
CHAPTER 2
One‐to‐one Guide
I. GOALS
A. Clarify questions concerning the sessions.
B. Know the participant’s prayer concerns
1. Relationships
2. God
3. Family and Relatives
4. Friends
5. Personal issues (vices, studies, and plans in the future)
6. Other Concerns
C. Find out factors that may hinder the participant to receive the Holy Spirit.
1. Unrepentant Attitude
2. Feeling of Unworthiness
3. Pride
4. Doubt
D. See if the participant will make a personal decision to accept Jesus.
C. Faith ‐ is not just an intellectual belief in God, but a confident assurance in God
which allows us to move forward without any doubt at all. The charismatic gift of
faith seems to be a special gift of prayer. Praying with a God‐given confidence which
produce extraordinary results. It’s knowing that what one asks for will be given.
(Matt 8:10, Matt 15:22)
E. Miracles – is the supernatural ability to perform miraculous act, acts that are not the
result of any known natural law or agency but are caused by divine intervention.
This enables the person t0 be God’s instrument in either an instant healing or in
some other powerful manifestation of God’s power. (Acts 8:6‐8, 9:36‐43, 13:8‐12).
F. Prophecy – is the gift by which a person is used by God to speak on his behalf. It is a
gift when God manifest to man His own thoughts so that a may be given for the
individual or for a group of individuals, or for the community. (Acts 13:1‐3, 21:10‐
13).
G. Discernment – is the gift by which a person can recognize the spirit behind a
particular situation. This enables the person to know the source of an inspiration or
action, whether it came from the Holy Spirit, his own human spirit or from the evil
spirit. (Acts 5:1‐10, 8:20‐24, 16:16‐19).
H. Tongues – is a gift by which a person is able to utter words or sounds which are not
known or understandable to his human intellect, to deliver God’s message for the
community. (Acts 10:44‐47, 19:6)
I. Interpretation – is a companion to the gift of tongues, when used for prophecy, and
is necessary so that those who hear may understand, and so be enlightened. It is
when a person, after the use of the gift of tongues, gives the general meaning of
what the person has said, or a response to what has been said. Interpretation can
also be used privately in combination with the gift of prayer tongues. (1Cor 14:5, 13,
27, 28)
B. Be aware of the time. We aim for quality time, taking into consideration each
participant in the group.
C. Keep the session light ‐ just like having a relational conversation with a friend.
D. In case you are having hard time remembering what you have talked about. Take
note every important detail after the one‐to‐one by writing it in a piece of paper.
Avoid writing while conversing with each other so that eye‐to‐eye contact is
maintained.
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CHAPTER 3
Pray‐over Guide
I. FORMAT
A. Ask participant to confess with his own lips that Jesus is Lord.
− Ask him to join you in a prayer or to begin the prayer himself
B. Spontaneous Praising
− Worship and glorify the Lord with the participant
E. Lifting of Concerns
− Pray for the concerns of the participant.
F. Baptism of the Holy Spirit; Prayer for the Gifts of the Holy Spirit
− “Father, we now ask You, in Jesus’ name, to pour upon (name of
participant) Your Holy Spirit, so that he/she may receive new life. We
also ask You, in Jesus’ name, to grant him/her the gift of tongues and any
other gift that You want him/her to receive.
− Encourage the participant to pray in tongues with you.
G. Closing Prayers
− Prayer of thanks
− Prayer for a strong Christian life
− Our Father, Hail Mary, Glory Be
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II. TIPS
A. Baptism of the Holy Spirit does not depend on the amount of time you pray. 5 to
10 minutes is enough.
B. Remember that it is God who sends down His Spirit, not you.
C. Be aware of what is happening (keep your eyes open).
D. It is the participant’s prayer. You are merely guiding him/her and praying with
him/her.
E. In case of disturbances (i.e. demonic oppressions), pray for and claim for God’s
peace in the name of Jesus. Don’t panic.
F. Feel free to ask for help from your couple coordinator or the Team Leader.
G. If you do decide to go for help, ask one of your prayer partners to do it. Do not
leave your participant at any time during baptism
H. Ask for support from the CFC‐YFC family during baptism. You must have prayer
warriors during this session.
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CHAPTER 4
Roles of Facilitators
I. PRE YOUTH CAMP
A. From the list of expected youth camp participants, one member from the YFC
chapter is assigned to a group of participants. He/She is the future facilitator of
this group in the youth camp. The facilitators are the primary contact of the
participants.
B. Weeks before the youth camp, it is expected that they have gone out as a group
just to be familiarize with each other.
C. The facilitator makes sure that the parents receive the invitation letter for the
youth camp.
D. The facilitator makes sure that the parents attend the parents’ forum bringing
with them the Youth Camp Invitation Reply Slip.
E. The facilitator sees to it that everybody in their group will attend the youth
camp.
7. Marian Prayer
Leader: Heavenly Father we thank you for giving us Mary as our Mother of
Your son and our mother. As we pray this rosary on her honor, we
dedicate our families, our on‐going youth camp, our community –
CFC, and our ministry – YFC to her motherly care and protection.
Thorugh her prayer and intercession, may we grow closer to your
Son Jesus and may the spirit of unity, peace, and a desire for
reconciliation grow among us. Like Mary, may we constantly
ponder in ur hearts the great mystery of your love for us and seek
to do your will in all things Give us, like Mary, the insiughts and
awareness to recognize the needs of our brothers and sisters and
the courage to respond to those in need. To seek the truth and to
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work for justice that all men may come to know what it means to
be your children. Mother Mary pray for us.
8. Prayer for the Youth Camp
Leader: Father, through the Immaculate Conception pf the virgin, You
prepared a worthy place for Your Son. IN view of the foreseen
death of Your Son, You preserved her from all sin. Through her
intercession, grant that we may also reach you with clean hearts
through our on‐going Youth Camp specially to:
a. Our invited partcipants, that they may find new life rediscovering
your Son;
b. Our Speaker, defend him/her against the
treacheries and deception of Satan and help him/her by giving the
wisdom and knowledge to impart;
c. Our brothers/sisters as part of the Service Team, that they will be
forever be clothed with graces of servanthood;
d. To our facilitators, grant them the grace to become effective workers
in yur vineyard;
e. To our families and loved ones whom we have left at home, that they
will be under our protection and care.
9. Pray: The Holy Rosary with reflection
Note: Refer to the next pages for the Holy Rosary Guide
10. Sing: Te Deum or As the Deer
11. Divine Praises
All: Blessed be God, blessed be His Holy Name
Blessed be Jesus Christ, true God and true man
Blessed be the name of Jesus, blessed be his Sacred Heart
Blessed be His most precious blood
Blessed be Jesus in the Holy Sacrament of the Altar
Blessed be the Holy Spirit, the paraclete
Blessed be the Holy Mother of God, Mary most Holy
Blessed be her most holy and immaculate conception
Blessed be herglorious assumption
Blessed be the name of Mary, virgin, and mother
Blessed be St. Joseph, her most chaste spouse
Blessed be God and His angels and saints.
Leader: Lord Jesus Christ, formidable is your power and wonderful is Your
Holiness! By your cross You have destroyed the sting of death.
Enlighten and Strengthen all who suffer that they may sing Your
praises forever.
The Sign of the Cross: In the name of the Father of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen
The Apostles' Creed: I believe in God the Father Almighty, Creator of heaven and earth; and in
Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord; Who was conceived by the Holy Ghost, born of the Virgin
Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended into hell;
the third day He arose again from the dead; He ascended into heaven, and seated at the right
hand of God, the Father Almighty; from thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead. I
believe in the Holy Ghost, the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness
of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen
The Our Father: Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name: Thy kingdom come: Thy
will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread: and forgive us our
trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation: but
deliver us from evil. Amen.
The Hail Mary: Hail Mary, full of grace; the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women,
and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now
and at the hour of our death. Amen
Glory Be to the Father: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Ghost.
As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
The Fatima Prayer: "O my Jesus, forgive us our sins, save us from the fires of hell, and lead all
souls to Heaven, especially those in most need of Your Mercy".
The Hail, Holy Queen: Hail, holy Queen, Mother of Mercy! our life, our sweetness, and our
hope! To thee do we cry, poor banished children of Eve; to thee do we send up our sighs,
mourning and weeping in this valley, of tears. Turn, then, most gracious Advocate, thine eyes of
mercy toward us; and after this our exile show unto us the blessed fruit of thy womb, Jesus; O
clement, O loving, O sweet Virgin Mary.
Additional prayers
"O God whose only begotten Son has purchased for us the rewards of eternal life, Grant that
we beseech Thee while meditating upon these mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary of the
Blessed Virgin Mary, we may both imitate what they contain and obtain what they promise,
through the same Christ our Lord Amen."
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Monday
and
Saturday
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God unto a city of
Galilee, named Nazareth, to a virgin espoused to a man whose name was
Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin's name was Mary. And the
angel came in unto her, and said: "Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the
Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women". And when she saw him,
she was troubled at his saying, and cast in her mind what manner of
salutation this should be. And the angel said unto her:" Fear not, Mary: for
thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy
womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name Jesus. He shall be
great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest"... And Mary said:" Behold the handmaid of the
Lord; be it unto me according to thy word". And the angel departed from her. (Luke 1,26‐38)
Oh Mary with Your "yes" You have opened heaven's ways, You have achieved the will of the
Father. You will be blessed for ever: Your intercession is heard in Heaven, because You have
accepted God's plan. Let us pray that we can say "yes" to the Father in every instance He ask it
of us. Mary help us to be humble and obedient to God's will.
Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill country with haste, into a
city of Juda. And entered into the house of Zacharias, and saluted
Elisabeth. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the salutation of
Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth was filled with the Holy
Ghost and she spoke out with a loud voice, and said: "Blessed art thou
among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb". ... And Mary said:
"My soul doth magnify the Lord, and my spirit hath rejoiced in God my
Saviour. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden: for,
behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed. For he that is mighty hath
done to me great things; and holy is his name"...(Luke 1,39‐49)
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Mary goes to visit Elisabeth: She carries God to Her cousin, for the love of Her brothers and
neighbours. Lord help us to carry Christ to others, like Mary did. Let us ask Mary the gift of
burning charity.
And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were accomplished that
she should be delivered. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and
wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there
was no room for them in the inn. And there were in the same country
shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night. And,
lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone
round about them: and they were sore afraid. And the angel said unto
them: "Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which
shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a
Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe
wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger". (Luk 2,6‐12)
Infant Jesus in the manger. Mary, Joseph and the shepherds adore Him. Let us also adore Christ,
the Son of God, in the silence of our soul and from the depth of our heart. Let us ask Mary to
make us love Jesus more, and also the gift of poverty of spirit.
And when the days of her purification according to the law of Moses were
accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem, to present him to the Lord;
And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said in the law of the Lord,
A pair of turtledoves, or two young pigeons. And, behold, there was a man
in Jerusalem, whose name was Simeon; and the same man was just and
devout, waiting for the consolation of Israel: and the Holy Ghost was upon
him. ...When the parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after the
custom of the law, Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and
said: "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, according to thy
word: For mine eyes have seen thy salvation... A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of
thy people Israel." And Joseph and his mother marveled at those things which were spoken of
him. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother: "Behold, this child is set for the
fall and rising again of many in Israel; and for a sign which shall be spoken against; (Yea, a sword
shall pierce through thy own soul also,) that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed."(Luk
2,22‐35)
We need to pay attention to the voice of God, to discern His call and accept the mission He gave
us. After the Simeon prophecy, Mary takes into Her Heart the wound of sorrow, but in the
silence She accepts the will of Her Father.
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Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the feast of the Passover.
And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the
custom of the feast. And when they had fulfilled the days, as they returned,
the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem; and Joseph and his mother
knew not of it. But they, supposing him to have been in the company, went
a day's journey; and they sought him among their kinsfolk and
acquaintance. And when they found him not, they turned back again to
Jerusalem, seeking him And it came to pass, that after three days they
found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing
them, and asking them questions. And all that heard him were astonished at his understanding
and answers. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him: "Son,
why hast thou thus dealt with us? Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing". And he
said unto them: "How is it that ye sought me? wist ye not that I must be about my Father's
business?" And they understood not the saying which he spake unto them. And he went down
with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these
sayings in her heart. (Luk 2,41‐51)
Let us think of how many times we have been far from Jesus; from that Jesus, who with so much
love has died for us. Let us meditate that in the difficulties of life the only safety is finding Jesus
and never again leaving his great love.
Tuesday
and
Friday
In the forsaking prayer to the Father, Jesus found strength, trust, and an angel was sent to
comfort Him. So Jesus will be our comforting angel. It's as He said to us: " Why do you worry in
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your difficulties? Be strong in me; look to your God in your most troubled hour, and you will be
triumphant." Let us ask to forsake ourselves to God, to always do His will.
How many pains, how many torments, and how many wounds on the body of Jesus? How much
blood falls to the ground, while His tormenters laugh, insult him, and gather their strength to hit
the innocent body of Jesus again? Let us ask to accept every insult for the love of our Lord, and
also a true regret for our sins.
Think of the indignity, outrage, pain, and humiliation that Jesus suffered.
They stripped Him of every dignity; He was treated as the guilt of our worst sins. He seems to
say to us: " Why do you despair when you suffer? Is that the way you love me? Meditate about
my passions and find in them great riches." Let us ask the gift of patience to accept all
humiliations, thinking of how Jesus suffered for us.
And as they led him away, they laid hold upon one Simon, a Cyrenian,
coming out of the country, and on him they laid the cross, that he might
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bear it after Jesus. And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which
also bewailed and lamented him. But Jesus turning unto them said: "Daughters of Jerusalem,
weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your children. For, behold, the days are
coming, in which they shall say, blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and
the paps which never gave suck". ... And there were also two other, malefactors, led with him
to be put to death.. (Luk 23, 26‐32)
Even if He had suffered just for you, Jesus would have accepted such pains; great is His love for
you. Along the road to Calvary Jesus sees Mary, His Mother. Can we imagine the moment when
their eyes met? Oh how Her Heart must have ached. Let us pray to Mary for the grace to always
accept our cross, so that she and Jesus may bear it.
Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister,
Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene. When Jesus therefore
saw his mother, and the disciple standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto
his mother:" Woman, behold thy son!" Then saith he to the disciple:
"Behold thy mother!" And from that hour that disciple took her unto his
own home. (John 19, 25‐27)
Jesus wishes to see us close to His Mother; He wishes that, like children, we
keep our hand in the hand of Mary. That is what He wants. He asks us to
look to the heavenly Mother that is depending on her. He asks that we accept Our Lady as our
true Mother, who will ignite in us a fervent love of Her Son. Mary, we trust in You, take us and
put us in the refuge of Your Immaculate Heart, heal with Your humility our pride, that so often
takes us far from God.
Wednesday
and
Sunday
In the end of the Sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the first day of the
week, came Mary Magdalene and the other Mary to see the sepulcher. And,
behold, there was a great earthquake: for the angel of the Lord descended
from heaven, and came and rolled back the stone from the door, and sat
upon it. And the angel answered and said unto the women: "Fear not ye!
For I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified. He is not here. For he is
risen, as he said". (Mat 28, 1‐6)
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The risen Jesus has proved that man, together with Him, can have power over sin and therefore
death. Jesus, help raise us, deliver us from sin, from evil, give us Your light, gives us Your joy.
Rekindle inside us the love, the faith, the hopefulness, and the gift of prayer. Let us ask Mary for
the gift of an unshakeable faith.
And as they are speaking these things, Jesus himself stood in the midst of
them, and saith to them, "Peace to you"; being amazed, and becoming
affrighted; they were thinking themselves to see a spirit. And he said to
them, "Why are ye troubled? And wherefore do reasoning’s come up in
your hearts? See my hands and my feet, that I am he; handle me and see,
because a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me having." And having
said this, he showed to them the hands and the feet. ... "And, lo, I do send
the promise of my Father upon you, but ye ‐‐ abide ye in the city of
Jerusalem till ye be clothed with power from on high." And he led them
forth without ‐‐ unto Bethany, and having lifted up his hands he did bless them, and it came to
pass, in his blessing them, he was parted from them, and was borne up to the heaven. (Luk
24,36‐51)
Jesus, You have not deserted Your apostles in anguish, but have given them the joy of knowing
Jesus "glorified" over 40 days . After Your Ascension, You granted to all those who seek You the
gift of recieving You in the Eucharist. Through Mary we trust in you. Mary, give us the gift of
hope.
And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one
accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a
rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And
there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon
each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to
speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Act 2, 1‐4)
Jesus, infuse us with the Comforter, the Holy Ghost, enlighten us with the
light of Your Spirit, with His strength enter in the deepest parts of our hearts
and heal us. Deliver us; fill up our hearts with Your love. Make us apostles of Yours, dear Lord.
Let us ask Mary the gift of true love, the gift of prayer from the heart.
"Come Holy Spirit, come by means of the powerful intercession of the Immaculate Heart of
Mary, Your well‐beloved Spouse."
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Blessed art thou of the most high God above all the women upon the earth;
and blessed be the Lord God, which hath created the heavens and the
earth, which hath directed thee to the cutting off of the head of the chief of
our enemies. ... Thou hast done all these things by thine hand: thou hast
done much good to Israel, and God is pleased therewith: blessed be thou of
the Almighty Lord for evermore. And all the people said, so be it. (Jdt 13,18‐
20; 15,10)
Now that Mary is raised into heaven, she prays for her sons and daughters,
those sons and daughters Jesus left her when He was on the cross. Mary, pray for us, You know
our fears, take us into Your Heart, the Heart of a Mother. Help us now and in the time of our
death to be with You in Heaven. We ask of you a devotion to Your Immaculate Heart, where we
may take refuge in times of trouble.
5th ‐ The Coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen of Heaven and Earth
There appeared a great sign in heaven: a woman clothed with the sun, with
the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars. (Rev 12,
1)
Let us trust in Mary, Let us call to Her, let us love her, and let us confide in
her, because she gives her all to us. We have a Mother in Heaven who is also
a Queen; thus we need to turn to her with full faith and hopefulness. If we
ask for something while praying the Holy Rosary, it will be granted to us. Ask
her for the gift of prayer, a prayer of the heart, said only for love, a love for
her and Jesus. Let us also ask for a consistency of prayer, to always be joined to Her Heart, and
therefore to the Heart of Jesus.
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Thursday
Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. But
John tried to deter him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you
come to me?"
Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all
righteousness." Then John consented.
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that
moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like
a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son,
whom I love; with him I am well pleased. (Mt 3, 13‐17)
The Baptism in the Jordan is first of all a mystery of light. Here, as Christ descends into the
waters, the innocent one who became “sin” for our sake (cf. 2Cor 5:21), the heavens open wide
and the voice of the Father declares him the beloved Son (cf. Mt 3:17 and parallels), while the
Spirit descends on him to invest him with the mission which he is to carry out.
On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus' mother
was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding.
When the wine was gone, Jesus' mother said to him, "They have no more
wine."
"Dear woman, why do you involve me?" Jesus replied, "My time has not
yet come."
His mother said to the servants, "Do whatever he tells you." Nearby stood
six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing,
each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, "Fill
the jars with water"; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, "Now draw some out
and take it to the master of the banquet." They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted
the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though
the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said,
"Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had
too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now."
This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee. He thus revealed his
glory, and his disciples put their faith in him. (Jn 2, 1‐12)
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Another mystery of light is the first of the signs, given at Cana (cf. Jn 2:1‐ 12), when Christ
changes water into wine and opens the hearts of the disciples to faith, thanks to the
intervention of Mary, the first among believers.
"The time has come," he said. "The kingdom of God is near. Repent and
believe the good news!" (Mk 1, 15)
About eight days after Jesus said this; he took Peter, John and James
with him and went up onto a mountain to pray. As he was praying, the
appearance of his face changed, and his clothes became as bright as a
flash of lightning. Two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared in glorious
splendor, talking with Jesus. They spoke about his departure, which he
was about to bring to fulfillment at Jerusalem. Peter and his companions
were very sleepy, but when they became fully awake, they saw his glory
and the two men standing with him. As the men were leaving Jesus,
Peter said to him, "Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up
three shelters‐‐one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah." (He did not know what he was
saying.)
While he was speaking, a cloud appeared and enveloped them, and they were afraid as they
entered the cloud. A voice came from the cloud, saying, "This is my Son, whom I have chosen;
listen to him." When the voice had spoken, they found that Jesus was alone. The disciples kept
this to themselves, and told no one at that time what they had seen. (Luk 9, 28‐35)
The mystery of light par excellence is the Transfiguration, traditionally believed to have taken
place on Mount Tabor. The glory of the Godhead shines forth from the face of Christ as the
Father commands the astonished Apostles to “listen to him” (cf. Lk 9:35 and parallels) and to
prepare to experience with him the agony of the Passion, so as to come with him to the joy of
the Resurrection and a life transfigured by the Holy Spirit.
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While they were eating, Jesus took bread, gave thanks and broke it,
and gave it to his disciples, saying, "Take it; this is my body."
Then he took the cup, gave thanks and offered it to them, and they all
drank from it.
"This is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many," he
said to them. "I tell you the truth; I will not drink again of the fruit of
the vine until that day when I drink it anew in the kingdom of God."
(Mk 14, 22‐25)
A final mystery of light is the institution of the Eucharist, in which Christ offers his body and
blood as food under the signs of bread and wine, and testifies “to the end” his love for humanity
(Jn 13:1), for whose salvation he will offer himself in sacrifice.