Chris Smith, Youth Ministry Coordinator at St. Francis of Assisi Parish in West Des Moines, joins The Catholic Morning Show to unpack what makes youth ministry distinct and why small groups are at the heart of his approach with teens. Smith shares his own faith journey from a parish youth group in Altoona to Iowa State University and now leading middle school and high school ministry programs, plus concrete ways parents, parishioners, and volunteers can support teens in their own parishes. It's a practical, encouraging conversation about helping the next generation of Catholics know they are loved, seen, and never alone in their faith.
Meet Chris Smith Chris Smith is the Youth Ministry Coordinator at St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church in West Des Moines, now a year into the role. He leads EDGE (grades 6–8) and FISH — Fellowship in Spirit with Him (grades 9–12) — the parish's two youth ministry programs.
What Makes Youth Ministry Different Chris explains why youth ministry is intentionally tailored to teens: giving them a say in the topics and hard questions they want to talk through, building small groups where they can be honest with each other, and helping every teen know they are loved by Jesus and not alone in their faith.
From a Youth Group in Altoona to Leading His Own Chris traces his own calling back to his home parish youth group at Ss. John and Paul in Altoona, where he first found a sense of belonging in high school. An internship at St. Cecilia Parish in Ames while attending Iowa State University confirmed his call to youth ministry full-time.
This Summer's Fun (and a Pickleball Tournament) Beyond small groups and discussion nights, this summer at St. Francis has included games and a first-ever pickleball tournament for the teens — building community and a little friendly competition before the school year picks back up.
How Lay Catholics Can Help Chris's biggest ask for parishioners, whether or not they have teens of their own: consider becoming an adult small-group leader, and pray for youth ministries everywhere, including through the intercession of St. John Bosco. He also makes the case that a steady, authentic witness — even just a warm greeting — can speak louder to teens than any polished talk.
Connect with St. Francis of Assisi Youth Ministry Learn more about EDGE and FISH at St. Francis of Assisi's Youth Ministry page or contact Chris directly at csmith@saintfrancischurch.org.
#CatholicYouthMinistry #YouthMinistry #CatholicTeens #StFrancisOfAssisi #WestDesMoines #IowaCatholicRadio #EDGEyouthministry #CatholicPodcast #FaithFormation