BBQ with the Bishop
Bishop David Bonnar warmly invites all young men—from high school age up to about 35—to join him for an evening of food, fellowship, and prayer. Whether you’re actively discerning the priesthood or simply wondering what God may be calling you to next, you are welcome. Come spend time with the bishop, our diocesan seminarians, and […]
For New Youth Ministers
Welcome to your new role in ministry! Stay connected, supported, and equipped through the Diocese of Youngstown’s Office of Youth & Young Adult Accompaniment, which offers training, resources, and a vibrant community to help you thrive in your journey of forming young disciples.
Hiring a Youth Minister
The Diocese of Youngstown invites passionate individuals to consider youth ministry, offering support, formation, and community for those called to accompany young people in faith. This webpage provides guidance for both parishes seeking to hire Youth Ministers and candidates discerning this vital role in the life of the Church.
Eagle of the Cross FAQs
The Eagle of the Cross award is given to outstanding juniors and seniors throughout the Roman Catholic Diocese of Youngstown who exemplify particular zeal in their faith and ministry programs. Awardees are chosen annually by a team of youth ministers and DREs who judge nominations from counties in which they are not located in. Up to 3 awards per county for parish involvement, and up to 2 awards per diocesan Catholic high school are awarded each year.
Diocesan Vetting Policy for Speakers/Musicians
The Official Diocesan Speaker Vetting Policy for vetting speakers/musicians from outside of the Diocese of Youngstown. Instituted/Updated 2024.
ENCOUNTER 2025 Recap
ENCOUNTER LOVE 2025 On March 8, 2025, over 155 youth, 40 adults, 30 volunteers from parishes and university, numerous priests, deacons, and seminarians came together for an unforgettable experience of Jesus’ great love for us – ENCOUNTER Love 2025 – the Diocesan Youth Convention, led by the Office of Youth and Young Adult Accompaniment. […]
Eagle of the Cross
The Eagle of the Cross award is given to outstanding juniors and seniors throughout the Roman Catholic Diocese of Youngstown who exemplify particular zeal in their faith and ministry programs. Awardees are chosen annually by a team of youth ministers and DREs who judge nominations from counties in which they are not located in. Up to 3 awards per county for parish involvement, and up to 2 awards per diocesan Catholic high school are awarded each year.
Youth and Young Adult Ministry Newsletters
The OYAYAA eNewsletter is sent out every two weeks to youth ministry leaders, young adult ministry leaders, campus ministers, and other priests, deacons, and young adults who want to be “in the know” with all things youth, young adult, and campus ministry!
Save-the-Dates: Youth & Young Adult Ministry Events in 2025
NCYC – November 20-23, 2025
NCYC 2025
The National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis, IN is an annual conference hosted by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry. The Diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Accompaniment is providing the opportunity for youth groups to attend with the larger diocesan Young Church this year!
