“Behold, I make all things new!”

December, 2018

After a long period of prayerful discernment, I recently informed Bishop Hying of my decision to resign my position as director of the Office for Youth & Young Adults (OYYA). He and I will meet soon to discuss an exit strategy, but for now I intend to remain through World Youth Day (January 23-29) and our upcoming Youth Ministry Formation Retreat (February 1-2). I am optimistic that future programs and efforts-including TAPT XXXI, a new Awakening Retreat for college-aged young adults, and NCYC 2019-will remain in place with a transition plan to be determined. Thanks in advance to all who will assist in these efforts, including Emily Sutton, assistant to OYYA, who will have to piece together many, many Word documents!

The Diocese of Gary Synod 2017, the international Synod on Young People, the Faith, and Vocational Discernment, V Encuentro, and the National Dialogue have affirmed the importance of pastoral ministry to, with, by, and for youth and young adults. The pastoral response required to sufficiently meet the current needs and realities of younger adolescents, older adolescents, college-aged young people, emerging adults, young adults and those that serve them is overwhelming, but I believe strongly that there is nothing more important to the people of the Diocese of Gary than youth and young adult ministry. It is my sincere hope and prayer that by passing on the torch to a new director, he or she can breathe new life, energy, spirit, and passion into the ministries. At this time, I believe that while I am extremely proud of what we have together accomplished, the time is right for a fresh perspective and renewed energy. I see a future full of hope (Jer 29:11)!

Since my arrival in 2003, we have accomplished so much, and that is a testament to the hundreds of leaders who have partnered with me and devoted so much to help young people encounter Christ in Northwest Indiana. As the office director, I can assure the faithful that I have been driven each day by my personal motto, inspired by Saint Paul, “Live a life worthy of the call” (Eph 4:1, Phil 1:27, Col 1:10).

I do not know what the future holds for me and my family. I do not have another job lined up, and have placed my future completely and totally into the hands of the One who makes all things new (Rev. 21:5). Please pray for us in this time of transition, and feel free to help me network: it’s been a long time since I’ve been on the job hunt!

I came to Northwest Indiana in 2003 a stranger and this diocese welcomed me (Mt 25:35). In these fifteen years I have fallen in love with the Diocese of Gary and its faithful. Thank you for helping my family find a loving home.

I am humbled and grateful for the opportunity to have served the young Church of Gary, and the greatest people in the world: youth and young adult ministers.

Advent Blessings
Kevin Driscoll