Parish launches new teen program

A new program “for teens, about teens” launched on Friday, March 19 with a “Meet and Greet Social.”
St. Helen’s new Youth Ministry Program drew 35 teens, mostly seventh through tenth graders, according to moderator Andrea Mercatante.
“It was a really good time,” she said. “The kids were fantastic.”
The evening’s fun, which featured video games, contests with prizes, dancing, “Minute to Win It” games and photos, courtesy of Funphoto Entertainment.
Many of the kids, Mercatante said, had graduated from St. Helen’s or its religious program.
One of these was DJ JG, Angelo Gurino’s 15-year-old son, who attended the school’s religious program.
“For a first event I was really pleased,” said Mercatante. “The kids wound up having a really great time.”
The “Ministry will be offering various opportunities throughout the year to help keep the teens of St. Helen’s parish community involved socially in a safe location, and at the same time giving them the chance to strengthen their faith, their commitment to the parish and the opportunity to continue the relationships they have created.”
They will offer social events and dances, liturgical season celebrations, a theatre group, sporting events, “Blogging” with Monsignor Al and a “Teen Text” section in the bulletin, among others.
Events will be planned based on the kids’ interests.
The St. Helen’s Youth Ministry Program follows the Howard Beach Community Youth Center (HBCYC) at Our Lady of Grace parish, in providing area youth with safe recreational choices.
“I think it’s fantastic,” said Nick LoPrinzi, director of the new program. “The more we have for our kids the better.”
To learn more about St. Helen’s Youth Ministry Program, call the rectory at 718-738-1616 and ask for the Youth Ministry/Andrea Mercatante.