Listen, Teach, Send: A National Pastoral Framework for Ministries with Youth and with Young Adults

This framework, approved by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops in June 2024, gives guidance for the Catholic Church in accompanying and evangelizing young people: youth (in junior high and high school) and young adults (in their late teens, 20s, and 30s). The methodology is rooted in the Gospel story of the road to Emmaus (Lk 24:13-35) and invites pastoral leaders and families, in their engagement with young people, to imitate Jesus who listens attentively, teaches from the heart, and sends disciples into the world. The document begins with a preface letter addressed directly from the U.S. Bishops to youth and young adults and continues with the three-part framework text for pastoral ministers, families, and young leaders in the Church.