Aym-ing for a different state, I chose the second smallest state, Delaware, for this issue’s report. The Diocese of Wilmington was established in 1868 and includes many counties of Maryland.

AYM (pronounced aim), Association of Youth Ministers, is an active group of participating youth ministers. This organization welcomes all diocesan full- and part-time youth ministers, coaches, and volunteers who long for professional support and resources. With yearly dues of just $50, membership offers many benefits.

Aym-ing for professionalism, the group sponsors guest speakers each meeting (with the fees being paid from the membership dues). In the current year, topics include how to maintain order in youth settings, computer in-services, scouting and youth ministry, anti-bullying programs, and communication for parents and teens. Of course, time is also spent in prayer, as well as sharing and support. There is also an annual retreat paid for with the collected dues.

Aym-ing for collaboration, the group sponsors several events each year. The multi-parish functions everyone looks forward to include a progressive dinner, NCYC, a youth leadership team, and a lockout held during Lent.

Aym-ing to make all meetings accessible, the group alternates meeting times and locations. Different parishes sponsor the meetings, with some in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Because of the two-state diocese being spread out, there is also a representative from the southern deaneries.

Aym-ing for leadership, the group has officers that are elected (chosen, coerced, begged, or tricked) into office. There are only a handful of full-time youth ministers in the region, so it is very important to meet all varieties of youth minister needs.

My last Aym was to find out why a youth minister would want to become a paid member of the group. The current president, Susan McLoone, answered that the support of others in the ministry, the collaborative programming, and the quality of speakers are benefits all can appreciate. For more information on this dynamic group, you can email Susan.