September 9, 2009

Catholic clubs for youths cover gamut of interests

By Julie Filby

Parents looking for Catholic-based extracurricular groups and activities for school-age children can contact neighboring parishes and Catholic schools to find out what’s available. Parents might also consider starting up a new group. Below are some of the opportunities available from preschool through high school.

Kids for Jesus
For boys and girls age 3–13
K4J is a series of programs that motivates children and families to live virtue and love Christ through their Catholic faith by completing a simple mission each month. It includes various programs for parishes, schools or home—and is designed to fit the lifestyle of today’s busy Catholic. Find out more: Visit www.k4j.org or contact Monique Dinkel at 303-923-5750 or modinkel@msn.com.

Little Flowers
For girls age 5-11
Little Flowers teaches Catholic virtues and tradition through the lives of saints, Scripture and the “Catechism of the Catholic Church.” Each year, through the study of different virtues, girls can earn flower petals (similar to merit badges) to form a wreath. Find out more: Visit www.eccehomopress.com/Little-Flowers-Home.html for information on starting a group. Contact Kris Anselmi at 303-730-4651 for the group at St. Louis School in Englewood. Connect with a Centennial group by contacting the St. Thomas More Parish office at 303-770-1155.

Conquest
For boys age 5-16
Conquest is a club for boys to provide faith-building formation, leadership opportunities, Gospel reflections and camps. It is designed to instill virtue, develop character and encourage spiritual growth—while offering physical, intellectual and spiritual activities within an atmosphere of adventure. Find out more: Visit www.conquestclubs.com. Contact John Sanderson at 303-662-0421 or sandersondesign@comcast.net for the Centennial club or Marcelo Garcia at 303-809-8452 or mggm519@hotmail.com for the Littleton club.

Challenge
For girls age 10-16
Challenge is a leadership club to help girls grow in virtue, friendship and the Catholic faith—a place for girls to grow closer to Christ and put their faith into action through formation activities and apostolic projects to create a positive impact on family, friends and the world. Find out more: Visit www.challengeclub.com or contact Kate Sweeney at 303-519-3791 or kate.sweeney@archden.org.

Pure Fashion
For girls age 14-18
Pure Fashion emphasizes a young woman’s inherent dignity which creates in her a desire to act and dress in accordance with that dignity. The program begins in September and culminates in a fashion show in May. Find out more: Visit www.purefashion .com; or contact Sallie Hurley at 303-741-3355 or salliehurley@ aol.com.

Bethlehem and Marian Groups
For girls 7-12(Bethlehem) and 13+ (Marian)
Bethlehem and Marian Groups are small faith communities that offer a place of friendship and reflection about being Christian in daily life. The groups have activities including regular meetings, sports, retreats and camping. Find out more: Visit www.clmusa.org; or contact Amada Briones at denverclm@clmusa.org.