Why does this program exist?

A 2018 PEW research study showed adolescents leaving the church at a much younger age than ever before. Young people are looking for hope, peace and joy in their families, communities and schools. It is now more important than ever to invite young people to truly know they are precious in God’s eyes by: engaging in a deeper relationship with Jesus, participating in an intentional community life and equipping them to bring their peers to Christ.

What is the difference between a Missionary and Apprentice?

An Apprentice works and studies with a Director of Youth or Campus Ministry. Apprentices will be assigned to a specific Director and will observe, participate, and be actively involved in learning the ways of the Director.

A Missionary’s main goal is to actively reach out to young people in a middle or high school environment, building relationships and engaging them on a smaller scale.

When will the Missionary Program begin?

Applications and interviews will be accepted between the months of November and February. Once you have applied, you will be contacted by Youth Apostles for an interview. Once accepted, you will be assigned a parish or school. For more information, contact Nick Zaso - nzaso@youthapostles.org.

What do I need to do to apply for the missionary program?

You will need to complete an application found on our website www.youthapostles.org/missionaryprogram. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Nick Zaso, Program Coordinator for the Youth Apostles Missionary Program - nzaso@youthapostles.org

What kind of formation is involved?

We want to set up our Missionaries for success; so we require our Missionaries to go through a period of intense training during the summer at the start of their program. In the end, we want Missionaries to be equipped with a body of knowledge and a set of best practices. The formation program is centered on the Four Pillars of Formation: Human, Spiritual, Pastoral and Intellectual.

How long is the program?

The program is two years. At the end of two years, the Missionary will complete the Certificate of Youth Ministry for the Diocese of Arlington. If you are interested in beginning a Master’s degree while in this program, please contact Nick Zaso, Program Coordinator for the Youth Apostles Missionary Program - nzaso@youthapostles.org.