“It’s not just about juggling” The 2010 Diocesan Youth Conference (DYC) did the trick for nearly 350 youth. And, as Gene Monterastelli of APeX Ministries said, “It’s not just about juggling.” See Southern Cross Vol. 90, No. 05- pages 8 & 9.

The DYC was organized by the Office of Youth Ministry to inspire Catholic youths in South Georgia to explore their faith. Monterastelli and his partner Brad Farmer of  APeX Ministries emceed the weekend.  The duo clowned around on the stage as they delivered the message of God’s centrality to all that we are and do.

Gallery of photos

On their Web site www.apexministries.com they explain that when juggling, it is important to keep your eye on the apex, the top ball, in order to keep everything in control. “We believe in our lives that ‘apex’ is the life of Jesus Christ. Keep your eyes on him and everything else becomes more manageable and in the appropriate balance.”

In addition to the main stage the teens were able to choose three one hour workshops out of 13 options. Mike Patin, also the keynote speaker, ran a lively workshop entitled “The Real World ­—a Manual.” He polled the group gathered in the class room for the pressures they face. Then, in an entertaining fashion, Patin pointed out Bible passages dealing with the same problems.
Following Mass and dinner on Saturday night, Patin entertained the crowd with self-deprecating humor that wound down to the idea that the teens need not choose between God or “the Real World”; but rather that God just asks they choose to  include him in their lives.