The Peer Ministry Program - Bishop McNamara High School
The Peer Ministry Program - Bishop McNamara High School
The Peer Ministry Program - Bishop McNamara High School
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CAMPUS MINISTRY OVERVIEW<br />
<strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />
Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> Department<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
Discernment Process Handbook<br />
"“If anyone wishes to be first,<br />
he shall be the last of all and the servant of all."<br />
Mark 9:35<br />
Blessed Basil Moreau, Founder of the Congregation of<br />
Holy Cross, wrote that the virtue of zeal is “the<br />
burning desire to make God known, loved, and<br />
served.” <strong>The</strong> Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> program and <strong>Bishop</strong><br />
<strong>McNamara</strong> is designed to do just that. Our monthly all<br />
school liturgies are how we come to know God and<br />
specifically Christ through the Sacrament of the<br />
Eucharist. We deepen our love of God through the<br />
retreat program, led by our <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers, which<br />
seeks to meet students where they are and encourage<br />
them to a deeper faith and prayer life. And our Holy<br />
Cross Service <strong>Program</strong> provides opportunities to serve<br />
the least in our community and in turn see the face of<br />
Christ in them. Ultimately all of this is at the service of<br />
our Holy Cross Mission, which proudly proclaims that<br />
the Cross is our only hope.<br />
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TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />
Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> Overview 2<br />
Table of Contents 3<br />
Letter of Welcome 4<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> <strong>Program</strong> 6<br />
Duties/Qualities of A <strong>Peer</strong> Minister 8<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Expectations 9<br />
Statement of Integrity 11<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Covenant 12<br />
Before You Begin the Discernment Process 14<br />
Discernment Process 16<br />
Notes on the Discernment Process 21<br />
Obligations if Selected 22<br />
Dear potential <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Candidates,<br />
On behalf of the entire <strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> Department<br />
thank you for seriously considering a commitment to the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
<strong>Program</strong>. It is my hope that as you move through the Discernment<br />
Process you will discover and be challenged by new insights while feeling<br />
valued and affirmed as the gifted individual you already are. If at any<br />
time in the process, you (or your parents/guardians) have concerns,<br />
please contact me so that I may help you address them. Please carefully<br />
read the information contained in this packet and adhere to all stated<br />
deadlines. Any information received past the stated deadlines, for any<br />
reason, will automatically withdraw the candidate from the Discernment<br />
Process.<br />
<strong>The</strong> following information, vital to the Discernment Process, is provided<br />
for you:<br />
Discernment Application:<br />
Basic information sheet (requires a parent/guardian signature)<br />
Candidate Self-Evaluation & Leadership Assessment<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Discernment Reflection<br />
BMHS Faculty/Staff Reference Form<br />
Available via BMHS website:<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Discernment Process Handbook:<br />
Letter of Welcome to the Discernment Process<br />
“<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> <strong>Program</strong>” description<br />
Duties and qualities of a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Expectations<br />
Statement of Integrity<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Covenant<br />
“Before You Begin the Discernment Process” guide<br />
Discernment Process timeline, notes and obligations<br />
Please read through all these items carefully before you begin filling out<br />
the Discernment Application. Please allow your parents/guardians to<br />
read through this information, too. Again, if you (or your parents/<br />
guardians) have any questions, please email or call me. I cannot<br />
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emphasize enough the importance and many benefits of making sure that<br />
you and your parents/guardians have an understanding of this process<br />
and of the commitment to <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> if you are called to serve during<br />
the 2013 – 2014 school year. <strong>The</strong> support of your parents/guardians is<br />
critical in ensuring your success in the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> <strong>Program</strong>.<br />
Please think and pray about your decision to discern for the <strong>Peer</strong><br />
<strong>Ministry</strong> program. Should you decide to move forward, please be very<br />
thorough in completing the Discernment Application. All Discernment<br />
Applications must be returned to Dr. Van der Waag in the Campus<br />
<strong>Ministry</strong> Office no later than Friday, February 1, 2013 at 8:00 am. You<br />
will NOT be given a pass to homeroom should you run late, nor will<br />
discernment forms be accepted once the 8:00 am bell has rung, under<br />
any circumstances. This includes a carpool running late, a broken<br />
printer, etc. You may ALWAYS turn in your Discernment Application<br />
BEFORE February 1. Please understand that turning in the Discernment<br />
Application in a timely manner shows an understanding of the serious<br />
nature of the discernment process and a willingness to continue onward.<br />
It also shows respect for the huge commitment that a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister takes<br />
on when agreeing to serve in this way.<br />
Thank you for your desire to serve our community. Please keep all those<br />
discerning the commitment to <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> and those who are leading<br />
the process in your prayers. Please know that you will be in my thoughts<br />
and prayers and that the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff is always available to you.<br />
In Holy Cross,<br />
Dr. Robert Van der Waag<br />
Campus Minister of Mission<br />
robertvanderwaag@bmhs.org<br />
(301) 735 - 8401 x135<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> <strong>Program</strong><br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> <strong>Program</strong> is one credit, and serves as an elective. <strong>Peer</strong><br />
Ministers are part of the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> Team. As such, their main<br />
goal is to help foster and develop the mission of the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
Department which is to witness to the hope of the Gospel message within<br />
the <strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> school community. Through the <strong>Program</strong> students<br />
will receive training in leadership, spiritual formation, group facilitation,<br />
and other relevant topics. A daily commitment to prayer is essential<br />
to the success of the <strong>Program</strong> and each <strong>Peer</strong> Minister.<br />
Content<br />
Course Objectives<br />
Students will be able to understand key teachings of the Catholic<br />
Church, including but not limited to the Mass, the Liturgical Seasons,<br />
Prayer, and inter-faith relations.<br />
Students will be able to understand key concepts of lay ministry, including<br />
but not limited to the universal call to holiness, Baptism as the<br />
foundation of all ministry, the priesthood of all believers, and the hierarchy<br />
of the Church.<br />
Students will be able to identify key components of leadership, including<br />
but not limited to listening skills, small group facilitations,<br />
conflict resolution, and planning.<br />
Students will be able to understand appropriate boundaries and the<br />
need for discretion with regard to their role as <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers, including<br />
but not limited to when to refer students to the Guidance office.<br />
Students will be able to identify indicators of common adolescent issues,<br />
including but not limited to depression, self-mutilation, suicidal<br />
tendencies, abuse, and self-identity issues.<br />
Students will be able to understand the key theological concepts behind<br />
the KAIROS retreat and the talks within it, including but not<br />
limited to holiness, prayer, love, God’s friendship, God’s presence in<br />
our lives and the world, the Church as the Body of Christ, and the<br />
importance of Scripture.<br />
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Skills<br />
Students will be able to foster personal and spiritual growth through a<br />
relationship with Jesus Christ.<br />
Students will be able to write and deliver a personal testimony and<br />
talk in a retreat setting.<br />
Students will be able to lead a faith-sharing small group within the<br />
religion classroom and in a retreat setting.<br />
Students will be able to lead prayer with individuals, small groups,<br />
classes, and retreats.<br />
Students will be able to demonstrate active listening skills.<br />
Students will be able to facilitate small and large group discussions.<br />
Students will be able to demonstrate basic conflict resolution skills.<br />
Students will be able to plan school-wide celebrations of liturgical<br />
seasons.<br />
Students will be able to develop and implement teaching methods and<br />
procedures.<br />
Students will be able to show active participation in the life, mission<br />
and work of Campus <strong>Ministry</strong>.<br />
Students will be able to develop public speaking skills.<br />
Students will be able to use multi-media technology to enhance<br />
presentations.<br />
Enduring Understandings<br />
I am called to ministry by virtue of my Baptism to be a servant-leader.<br />
This calling is made clearer by reading Scripture and deepening my<br />
prayer life.<br />
In order to minister effectively to others, I must also be constantly improving<br />
my own spiritual life. I cannot give to others what I do not<br />
possess myself.<br />
Leadership skills are essential to bringing the Gospel to others. Planning<br />
for events, facilitating small groups, presenting on spiritual topics, and<br />
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giving a witness talk are tools that enable me to spread the Good News.<br />
Humility is the foundation for all ministry. It is not my words and<br />
actions which bring Christ to others; rather, it is God’s work through<br />
me.<br />
Duties of a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister<br />
Live a life in accordance with your call as a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister (upholding<br />
Catholic values and moral teachings).<br />
Serve in the liturgical and spiritual needs of the school community,<br />
such as Mass, morning prayer, prayer services.<br />
Mentoring of Freshman through the religion classes as well as checking<br />
in weekly with assigned students.<br />
Plan and coordinate school retreats, including the KAIROS retreat.<br />
Commit to developing your own faith witness and prayer life.<br />
Regularly communicate with teachers regarding missed work due to<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> commitments.<br />
To uphold the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Expectations & Covenant at all times<br />
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Qualities of a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister<br />
Openness to growth in a relationship with Christ.<br />
Willingness to witness to the Gospel through faith filled and moral<br />
example. To live a life worthy of being called a Christian.<br />
Ability to work with other members of a team.<br />
Commitment to being a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister, manifested in a positive attitude<br />
and a spirit of generosity and service.<br />
Humility for the awesome responsibility that comes with being<br />
called to <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong>.<br />
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<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Expectations<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Ministers are held to certain expectations.<br />
Below is a list and the consequences of not meeting those expectations.<br />
Level 1: <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers should be personally aware of problems<br />
without intervention from fellow <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers or Campus <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
staff. If a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister is not making an attempt to correct this<br />
behavior, it will turn into a level 2.<br />
Stay away from cliques<br />
Put effort into class<br />
Use good time management<br />
Be supportive<br />
Be a role model<br />
Be open to criticism<br />
Be helpful<br />
Be yourself<br />
Be patient<br />
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Be inclusive<br />
Have a positive attitude<br />
Be welcoming<br />
Be efficient<br />
Make good choices<br />
Leave problems at the door<br />
Don’t dwell in the past<br />
Be a good listener<br />
Level 2: <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers should, in charity and love, respectfully point<br />
out to one another when these expectations aren’t being met. <strong>The</strong><br />
Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff will be notified when a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister develops a<br />
habit of breaking one of these expectations. Any level 2 expectation that<br />
directly affects the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Team or the students we are<br />
ministering to will be brought up immediately to the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
staff.<br />
Respect everyone<br />
No lying<br />
Always be prepared<br />
Be attentive<br />
No texting during events<br />
Conduct proper online behavior<br />
Don’t abuse your position<br />
Meet all deadlines<br />
No inappropriate language<br />
Don’t be late<br />
Always be at your events<br />
Don’t gossip<br />
NO DRAMA<br />
No PDA<br />
Dress appropriately<br />
Accept constructive criticism<br />
Level 3: <strong>The</strong> Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff should be made aware that the Level<br />
3 expectation was broken, either by the <strong>Peer</strong> Minister who has<br />
committed the infraction or by a fellow <strong>Peer</strong> Minister who is personally<br />
aware of the infraction. This is not ‘ratting someone out;’ rather, as<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Ministers we are responsible for upholding the integrity of the <strong>Peer</strong><br />
<strong>Ministry</strong> program which is only as strong as our individual actions. Each<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Minister would meet privately with the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff. A<br />
confidentiality agreement would be signed before discussing the<br />
particular situation. <strong>The</strong> staff will write down specific question<br />
suggestions for the re-discernment meetings. <strong>The</strong>n before concluding,<br />
the name of the <strong>Peer</strong> Minister who broke the expectation would be<br />
shared. <strong>The</strong> <strong>Peer</strong> Minister who broke the expectation would re-discern<br />
for leadership with the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff, and possibly select fellow<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Ministers. <strong>The</strong> re-discernment committee would sign<br />
confidentiality agreements. After the meeting, the re-discernment<br />
committee would decide on closure with the team. Keeping<br />
confidentiality in this situation, even to other <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers, would also<br />
be considered a Level 3 expectation.<br />
No sexual activity<br />
No illegal drugs / tobacco products<br />
No violence<br />
No drinking<br />
No illegal behavior<br />
Respect confidentiality<br />
Respect BMHS property and privileges<br />
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Statement of Integrity<br />
Integrity is the foundation of leadership. You only lead<br />
people if they trust you. If you lose people's trust, you've<br />
lost it all. That's why the right to lead is earned, and it's<br />
earned by being trustworthy. I think the most damaging<br />
sin a leader can commit is to betray the trust of his people.<br />
BMHS Honor Oath<br />
“I have chosen to act honorably,<br />
not because someone is watching,<br />
but because I value my character<br />
and our community of trust.”<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Covenant<br />
I _______________ am prepared to fully accept the responsibilities of<br />
being a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister. I understand the role of <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> as one that<br />
shares in the mission of Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> at <strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> <strong>High</strong><br />
<strong>School</strong>, a Catholic school in the Holy Cross tradition. As such, my<br />
mission as a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister is one that is focused on bringing the light of<br />
Christ to the school community. I am willing to commit myself to that<br />
task, to the best of my ability, throughout the year.<br />
I understand what this commitment means for me on a personal level,<br />
and I understand the sacrifices involved and the responsibilities that come<br />
with this role in the school. I am willing to embrace the role of <strong>Peer</strong><br />
Minister, setting an example of strong Christian leadership to the school<br />
community.<br />
I am also aware of the specific requirements for the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
course. <strong>The</strong> requirements are:<br />
To uphold myself as a Christian example to my peers and to the underclassmen by<br />
my words and actions, both inside and outside of school.<br />
To attend all required dates and events.<br />
To attend class and any mandatory extra events or meetings of class in<br />
preparation for events (including retreats, Freshman class visits, etc.).<br />
To remain in dialogue with senior teachers and make up all missed assignments<br />
due to <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> activities (such as freshman visits).<br />
To be attentive to the demands of being a minister to ninth graders. I will meet bi<br />
-weekly with each student I am responsible for and be supportive of him/her<br />
throughout the year.<br />
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To be attentive to the demands of being a minister to the entire student body,<br />
making myself available to other students who may need assistance, especially<br />
transfer students.<br />
To remain consistent with <strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> values and behavior standards as<br />
stated in the student handbook, as well as being of service to the broader school<br />
community.<br />
To refrain from any behavior that will reflect negatively on the individual s well<br />
as the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> program, including the use of illegal drugs and alcohol and<br />
from any sexual activity.<br />
To uphold the teachings of the Catholic Church in word and action, including the<br />
maturity to abstain from speaking in certain circumstances.<br />
I understand that if I struggle with any of these commitments, I am free<br />
to seek counsel and support from the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff in order to<br />
maintain my role in the school community.<br />
I completely understand that as a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister I am expected to be a<br />
leader and a role model for <strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> and that I<br />
may be dismissed from the program if I do not fulfill the required<br />
expectations.<br />
Student Signature: _______________________________<br />
Date: _____________<br />
Parent Signature: ________________________________<br />
Date: _____________<br />
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Before You Begin the Discernment Process<br />
Before beginning any of the Discernment Application, ask yourself a few<br />
questions. Be honest with yourself!<br />
Why do you want to be a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister Do you have the heart of a<br />
servant Are you able to humble yourself to the needs of others<br />
A <strong>Peer</strong> Minister is primarily a servant. It is not about you. Rather,<br />
sometimes you will need to do things that you don’t want to or don’t<br />
enjoy, but they are for the betterment of others. While inevitably you<br />
will benefit from your experiences as a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister, the program is not<br />
for those who ‘need it.’ <strong>The</strong>re is a certain maturity and spiritual<br />
readiness that must already be present in order for you to be a part of<br />
this program.<br />
What other commitments do you have for this year Are you able to<br />
make <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> your first priority<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> is a huge time commitment. Outside of class, there is the<br />
requirement to meet with EACH of your freshmen every two weeks IN<br />
PERSON. You also have retreats and meetings outside of regular class<br />
time. You will also need to be at school early to set-up for liturgies and<br />
other events. You also miss other classes monthly for Freshmen Visits.<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> MUST come first in your list of activities, this includes<br />
athletics, fine arts, clubs, etc. Are you willing to have conversations<br />
with your coaches and teachers when conflicts arise, understanding that<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> commitments are not negotiable Is this a realistic time<br />
commitment for you This type of commitment may mean you have to<br />
make different choices with other activities in which you are involved.<br />
What could you give up Do your parents / guardians support the<br />
choice to make <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> your first priority If you don’t drive, are<br />
they willing to make sure you have a ride to/from all events<br />
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How involved have you been in Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> in previous years<br />
Did you actively participate in retreats, liturgies, faith-based<br />
clubs, or service opportunities<br />
Being a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister is not the only way of being active in our school’s<br />
Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> program. Have you shown an interest in the<br />
opportunities provided in previous years Why or why not <strong>Peer</strong><br />
Ministers are called to be role models for their fellow students. If you<br />
have not been actively participating in Campus <strong>Ministry</strong>, why do you<br />
want to be a part now<br />
Are you willing to learn new things about yourself and others Do<br />
you believe that grace can change people Do you allow your<br />
opinions to be dominated by gossip or stereotypes<br />
Christ calls us to accept each and every person as created in the image<br />
and likeness of God. Gossip and stereotyping is not permitted or<br />
tolerated. As <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers we are privileged to see the power of God<br />
to transform people. This requires an openness to grace and a<br />
willingness to accept change.<br />
Are you supportive of the mission of Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> at <strong>Bishop</strong><br />
<strong>McNamara</strong>, a Catholic school in the Holy Cross tradition<br />
As representatives of Campus <strong>Ministry</strong>, <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers are expected to<br />
uphold in word and action the teachings of the Catholic Church, even if<br />
they themselves are of another denomination. While Christians of many<br />
denominations are <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers, it would be difficult for a non-<br />
Christian to be a <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers given it’s Christo-centric nature.<br />
Whether you are or are not a practicing Catholic, are you willing to<br />
grow in your knowledge of the teachings of the Catholic Church and to<br />
encourage our school community to embrace those values and practices<br />
<strong>The</strong> Discernment Process<br />
Spiritual discernment is calling on the Holy Spirit to lead or give direction<br />
in a matter. It is how the Spirit shows the church or its people what<br />
God wants them to do and be.<br />
<strong>The</strong> process that we use for <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> is “Discernment”. That is,<br />
that all persons involved are seeking what God’s will is for each of us and<br />
the program itself. It is not about ‘”electing” the perfect team, but<br />
rather humbly going before God and asking what His will for this<br />
ministry is. As you enter this process, it is our hope that you too will<br />
enter it with a discerning heart: is being a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister what God is<br />
calling you to do <strong>The</strong> Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff will be approaching it from<br />
this manner as well. It is not about judging students against each other<br />
or some abstract ruler; rather, we are praying for each of you and for<br />
what God has in store for <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> next year.<br />
Step 1: Introduction to the Process & Picking up Information<br />
Tuesday, January 15, 2013: 7:30 am or 3:10 pm in Moreau Chapel. You must<br />
attend ONE of these two time slots.<br />
In order to begin the Discernment Process you must attend one of these<br />
meetings. Please understand that your commitment to attending one of<br />
these meetings shows an understanding of the serious nature of the<br />
discernment process and a willingness to continue onward. It also shows<br />
respect for the huge commitment that a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister makes when<br />
agreeing to serve in this way. If you do not have the ability to make the<br />
time to attend this first step, it raises serious questions as to whether you<br />
have the ability to be a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister at all. If there is an extraordinary<br />
circumstance preventing you (that does not mean running late, having an<br />
athletic, fine arts, or club commitment) please see a member of the<br />
Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff in ADVANCE of the meeting to discuss it. <strong>The</strong><br />
meeting will last approximately 25 minutes. During this time the<br />
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Discernment Process will be explained, the Discernment Application<br />
will be handed out, and questions will be answered.<br />
Step 2: Completion of Discernment Application<br />
Friday, February 1, 2013: 8:00 am deadline<br />
All Discernment Applications must be returned to Dr. Van der Waag in<br />
the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> Office no later than Friday, February 1, 2013 at<br />
8:00 am. You will NOT be given a pass to homeroom should you run<br />
late, nor will discernment forms be accepted once the 8:00 am bell has<br />
rung, under any circumstances. This includes a carpool running late, a<br />
broken printer, etc. You may ALWAYS turn in your Discernment<br />
Application BEFORE February 1. Please understand that turning in the<br />
Discernment Application in a timely manner shows an understanding of<br />
the serious nature of the discernment process and a willingness to<br />
continue onward. It also shows respect for the huge commitment that a<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Minister takes on when agreeing to serve in this way.<br />
<strong>The</strong> candidate is responsible for turning in the following pieces of the<br />
Discernment Application at this time:<br />
Basic Information Sheet (requires a parent/guardian signature<br />
Candidate Self-Evaluation and Leadership Assessment<br />
Discernment Reflection<br />
<strong>The</strong> candidate should have previously given the reference form (either in<br />
hardcopy, by email, or by directing them to the BMHS website) to their<br />
BMHS Faculty/Staff Reference. This reference is confidential and should<br />
NOT be seen by the candidate. Please make sure that you have<br />
communicated to your reference that the reference must be received by<br />
the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff no later than Friday February 1, 2013 at 8 am.<br />
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<strong>The</strong> reference can be turned in a few ways:<br />
Given to you in a SEALED, SIGNED envelope<br />
Brought to the Main Office<br />
Emailed to Dr. Van der Waag at Robert.vanderwaag@bmhs.org<br />
Faxed to Dr. Van der Waag at (301) 735 - 0934<br />
Step 3: Faculty / Staff Gathering<br />
Friday February 1, 2013 at 3:15 pm<br />
All BMHS faculty and staff are invited to a gathering in Campus <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
to provide feedback on the candidates who have submitted their<br />
Discernment Application. Those who offer feedback are asked to<br />
provide specific, concrete examples of their experiences and<br />
observations of the students in Discernment. No details of the<br />
Discernment Applications are revealed; rather, the gathering is meant to<br />
supplement the information provided and to gain an understanding of<br />
each student’s involvement in the wider school community. Questions<br />
that the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff have about a candidate may be proposed.<br />
<strong>The</strong> feedback provided is used, in conjunction with the Discernment<br />
Application and reference, to determine which students will be asked to<br />
continue onto Step 4 of the Discernment Process.<br />
Step 4: Personal Interviews<br />
Interviews will take place between Tuesday, February 5 and Thursday, February<br />
14, 2013.<br />
Based on the Discernment Application and reference, some applicants<br />
will be asked to continue in this Discernment Process. <strong>The</strong> students who<br />
are continuing will sit for a personal interview with at least one member<br />
of the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff. <strong>The</strong>se interviews will take place during<br />
the school day. Candidates will receive notice of their interview date<br />
and time via homeroom mail. All candidates will be notified in writing<br />
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of their status. If a candidate is not asked to interview, they are no<br />
longer being considered for the program.<br />
<strong>The</strong> framework of the interview will be based on the candidate’s<br />
discernment as indicated through their reflection and on knowledge of<br />
the candidate’s past involvement in Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> and the school at<br />
large. Concerns specific to that candidate will be discussed as well.<br />
Also, the candidate has the opportunity to ask questions about the <strong>Peer</strong><br />
<strong>Ministry</strong> experience. Through openness and honestly, the discussion will<br />
explore a candidate’s thoughts, feelings, and abilities. Suggestions for<br />
personal development often come from this exploration.<br />
One purpose of this interview is to give the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff<br />
valuable information to assist in the task of choosing <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers. A<br />
second and equally valued purpose is to allow the candidate to gain more<br />
insight about her/himself. Hopefully, this new and/or deeper insight<br />
will aid the candidate in developing his/her unique abilities and gifts<br />
within our school community, whether or not she/he is called to serve as<br />
a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister.<br />
candidates who are being invited is given a review by the Deans of<br />
Students, Guidance Office, and the <strong>School</strong> Administration.<br />
Step 6: Receiving Notification Email<br />
Friday, March 1, 2013<br />
On Friday, March 1, 2013, an email will be sent to each candidate who is<br />
still in the Discernment process. <strong>The</strong> email will thank the candidate for<br />
their thoughtful, prayerful, and honest participation in the process. It will<br />
also clearly indicate whether they are being called to serve as a <strong>Peer</strong><br />
Minister or whether they are being called to serve <strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> in a<br />
different way. If those choose, candidates will be encouraged to meet<br />
with the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff with any questions.<br />
Any questions about the Discernment Process should be addressed to the Campus<br />
<strong>Ministry</strong> Staff. Our goal is that this process allows for the work of the Holy Spirit<br />
to guide the decisions made by our students and the adults involved in the process.<br />
All interviews are confidential and only information that shows a student<br />
is a danger to themselves/others or has been/is in danger themselves will<br />
be divulged to the appropriate person.<br />
Step 5: Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> Discernment<br />
Thursday, February 14-Thursday, February 28, 2013<br />
During these days, the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff will gather to examine the<br />
information and results gleaned from the Discernment Applications,<br />
reference, Faculty / Staff gathering, and personal interviews. During<br />
this time, we will evaluate which candidates should be invited to serve as<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Ministers for the following year. We may also ask the current <strong>Peer</strong><br />
<strong>Ministry</strong> class for feedback based on the questions that arise. <strong>The</strong> list of<br />
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Notes on the Discernment Process<br />
Please be assured that Discernment Applications, reference, feedback<br />
from the Faculty/Staff Gathering, current <strong>Peer</strong> Minister feedback, and<br />
the review by the Deans of Students, Guidance, the Administration, as<br />
well as the contents of the notification emails are treated with great<br />
reverence. Any adult or teen involved in any discussion, meeting, or<br />
gathering agrees to keep all information and discussion confidential. All<br />
of those involved know that it is a monumental, serious, breach of trust<br />
to violate this confidentiality.<br />
If you are not selected for <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> this in no way indicates a lack of<br />
character, leadership, or spiritual development. Rather, we as a school<br />
community are very blessed to have many students who wish to and are<br />
capable of serving in this capacity; however, the design and needs of the<br />
program limit the number of spaces available in order to maintain the<br />
integrity of the mission and the quality of the support provided to the<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Ministers themselves.<br />
Based on the results of the Discernment Process and the needs of the<br />
Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> program, the number of <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers chosen will be<br />
between 24 and 28. <strong>The</strong> final number will not be decided until the<br />
Discernment Process is completed.<br />
Please keep in mind that anyone may withdraw from the Discernment<br />
Process at any time. Candidates who make the decision to withdraw<br />
before the end of the process are asked to first inform the Campus<br />
<strong>Ministry</strong> staff of that decision. If you have already given out your<br />
reference form and then decide not to continue in the Discernment<br />
Process, please inform the teacher so that she/he does not unnecessarily<br />
take the time to complete it.<br />
Obligations if Selected<br />
If you are selected to be a <strong>Peer</strong> Minister for your senior year there are<br />
some obligations of which you need to be aware.<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Participation Fee (amount TBA)<br />
<strong>The</strong>re is a participation fee for the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> program to off-set the<br />
costs of the many activities that <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers participate in and lead.<br />
<strong>The</strong> cost does not fully cover the costs associated with the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
program; the fee charged is a portion of the total cost with the remainder<br />
being covered by <strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.<br />
<strong>The</strong> fee assists in covering the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> polo, t-shirts for retreats,<br />
YouthLeader Conference, <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Retreat (if held), <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong><br />
Training Days, and the various retreats they will lead throughout the<br />
school year. It does not include class supplies.<br />
<strong>The</strong> fee will be spread out over payments due throughout March, April,<br />
and May 2013.<br />
Difficulty in paying this fee should not discourage any student from<br />
discerning for the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> program. Upon selection any student in<br />
a sensitive situation should speak to the Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> staff. Financial<br />
assistance is available and should not be a determining factor of a student<br />
choosing to discern for <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> or not.<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Covenant<br />
Students selected for <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> and their parents/guardians will be<br />
required to sign the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Covenant indicating that they<br />
understand the commitment that is being made. Breaking this Covenant<br />
may result in being dismissed from the <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> <strong>Program</strong>.<br />
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Mandatory Events<br />
<strong>The</strong> events listed are mandatory events for <strong>Peer</strong> Ministers and may not<br />
be missed in part or in whole for any reason. Please understand that<br />
your commitment to <strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> MUST come first. This means that<br />
you must have conversations with other teachers, coaches, directors, etc.<br />
<br />
Dates for the 2013– 2014 school year have not be finalized yet. As<br />
soon as the school calendar is finalized they will be published.<br />
YouthLeader Conference<br />
Sunday, June 9 (9 am) - Thursday, June 13 (10 pm), 2013<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Retreat<br />
August 2013<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Training Days<br />
August 2013<br />
Freshmen Experience (Retreat, Seminar, Orientation)<br />
August 2013<br />
KAIROS Retreats<br />
Students will be required to lead a KAIROS retreat with their <strong>Peer</strong><br />
<strong>Ministry</strong> class section<br />
Sophomore Service Retreats / Junior Retreats<br />
Students be will be required to help out with some of the retreats<br />
offered throughout the school year<br />
Liturgy Set-up and Clean-up<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Ministers will be required to help out with this monthly—<br />
arrival at 7am to set up and clean up after Liturgy<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Class<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> Ministers are required to be enrolled in the elective class ‘<strong>Peer</strong><br />
<strong>Ministry</strong>.’ This does not replace the required Religion class for<br />
seniors. <strong>Peer</strong> ministers are assigned to a class and together with that<br />
group will lead a KAIROS retreat.<br />
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<strong>Bishop</strong> <strong>McNamara</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong><br />
Campus <strong>Ministry</strong> Department<br />
<strong>Peer</strong> <strong>Ministry</strong> Discernment Process Handbook<br />
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