Youth are more concerned with social justice and equality than we might think. In my parish, I am blessed to have teenagers who are caring, faith-filled, curious, teachable, polite, and motivated.

I am often amazed at the statements I hear from these teens. I find myself wishing that other adults could be “flies on the wall” during our weekly discussions. Parents and other adults would be absolutely stunned by the thoughtful and passionate responses teens offer to discussion questions.

Those of us who have passed the age of majority and call ourselves adults need to pay closer attention to our youth. They have much to teach us. My youth group recently had a discussion about social justice and inequality. I would like to share some of the things that were said by some of my youth group members. I hope you are as inspired by their words as I. Here’s a sampling:

“It’s horrible that women are treated as badly as they are in some cultures. It’s demeaning and disgusting. I can’t imagine living like they have to. I wish I could bring all of those who suffer inequality here to live in freedom.” – Ingrid, age 15

“I don’t understand prejudice at all. I wish I could figure out how people learn to hate so much. I can’t imagine myself ever being filled with so much hatred for another person just because of color or religion. Staying close to Jesus helps me to try to care for people rather than to hate them.” – Carissa, age 17

“There are ways to combat hatred. I think the most effective is to show love instead. Love is contagious, isn’t it? It should be.” – Andrew, age 14

“When all is said and done, we’ll have to answer for our actions and the way that we treated other people during our lives. I’d rather not have a problem during that particular review of my life.” – Jessica, age 16

I have found teens can be motivated to become greater disciples of Christ if we encourage them to share their thoughts and ideas. As youth ministers, we have a fantastic opportunity to be role models for these young people. Sometimes though, they can be role models for us too!

Social justice is a serious issue and, if cultivated, youth groups can have serious discussions about issues that matter. Teens want to talk about more than rock bands, hairstyles, and new clothes. Sometimes all we need to do is start the discussion for them. They will take over from there, believe me.