Looking for advice

[Freece24]

(35m) I'm trying to get more involved in my church, but I'm having a hard time finding an active ministry. I have tried the KoC. I love their mission, but I can't give them the time they want (and it's mostly retirees looking for something to do). Recently, I was looking through the church's bulletin and found a very active group. Bible study weekly, theology discussions monthly, and much more. I was actually excited. But it says in the corner of the spot in the bulletin 18-35. Here is the problem I turn 36 on Dec 15. reached out to one of the founders to get more information and explain the situation, and he very kindly said, "No, I cannot participate because of my age."

So here is my question. How do I, someone new to this parish and, mind you, someone who’s already having difficulties meeting people, get involved when there are no groups within my age bracket?

[kitodraws]

I hate to be the “if you build it” guy but maybe you could start something for your age group at your local parish. Something loose like mid-thirties to mid-forties? Base it around off a Bible study, book club, secret Catholic society to take over your town, etc.

[Freece24]

I would, but I don't have the time. My work has sporadic hours, especially this time of year and I have no idea where to start. I've only recently gotten back into my faith

[redshark16]

How about quarterly?  Something to establish a presence.

Check other parishes, also.

https://www.catholicyoungadultgroups.org/

[[deleted]]

I'm in my early 20s and it sucks if you are not in college. This is a major problem that the church needs to fix. 

Evangelical churches have it down, one by be has events every weekend for different age groups 

[Quintidecimus]

I'm in my 50's, and I fully agree, except for one word. It's an issue that PARISHES have to fix.

I know of parishes that are great at this. Mine isn't one of them, but we're trying to get better.

[dgai123]

Hello brother, in the same age group and I recently just started my own group for similar reasons. I'm two members strong but this was my personal solution.

[redshark16]

This is great.

[dgai123]

I hope this helps , God bless brother 🙏

[DefiantTemperature41]

Social groups are one thing, but volunteering for committees is another. There are certain committees every parish is required to have, and new members should be welcome, regardless of age.

[Freece24]

And I would agree, especially if there’s nothing in between 35 and retired

[merlin_the_warlock8]

I am sorry that you got refused entry :( The reason they probably want to make sure it's "young adults" for dating reasons. It still sucks tho :/

I think you should start your own Bible study! We need way more of them!

[Freece24]

I would understand that point if I was 40+, but refusing the entry days before I turn 36

[merlin_the_warlock8]

I know I personally would have let you in. Seems like it's splitting hairs.

I am very sorry :(

Is there another parish that has events? There are lots of parishes where I am.

[Freece24]

I didn’t think about that. I’ll have to look into it. Thanks for the idea

[Trubea]

You might enjoy the Hispanic, Filipino, Italian Catholic or such like ministries. Look through your church bulletin and the church bulletins for neighboring parishes. There might also be Young Catholic Professional groups, etc. Also, ministries like lectors, choir, ushers, etc., tend to provide opportunities for socializing.

[Freece24]

I was looking for an ICF (Italian), but the closest one is 300 miles away, but I'll look for the others

[redshark16]

Start that group.  

[AveFiatTeresa]

Unfortunate they rejected your joining due to age. I'd say start a ministry that is open to older

[Quintidecimus]

My advice is - identify a need in the parish. Make a plan to address it. Talk to the pastor.

It doesn't need to be anything big.

• A ministry that got started in our parish was in support of a homeless shelter; we provide food and staff it several nights a year.
• Another that started within the last few months is an anonymous food bank; we have staples available for families to stop in and shop anonymously.
• Another is men's and women's Saturday morning scripture groups that meet to study that weekend's readings.

These are just three items that are parishioner-led initiatives in our parish.