"What is needed today is a church which knows how to respond to the expectations of young people. Jesus wants to enter into dialogue with them and, through his body, which is the church, to propose the possibility of a choice, which will require a commitment of their lives. As Jesus with the disciples of Emmaus, so the church must become the traveling companion of young people..." (Pope John Paul II, World Youth Day 1995, Philippines)
At the heart of youth ministry is our human need for significant relationships.  Jesus invites us into a relationship with Him and with those around us.  This relationship will propel us toward meaning in our lives.  Young people in our society have a multitude of choices, but which choices will lead them into a life of joy, peace, and fulfillment?  The challenge of youth ministry (and so, it is the challenge of the Church) is to draw young people into a deeper relationship with Jesus and His people, and to allow these young people to use their gifts in order to serve Christ.