Evaluations

Counselor names are used with permission.

I. Evaluation of Counselor Outcomes

1. Gain competency in practical ministerial skills.

Comments Summer I:

• I learned a whole bunch. These kids are awesome! – Cari White
• Active enough to gain a greater competency for ministerial skills. – Christopher Thelen 
• Gained a better understanding of behind-the-scenes type stuff. Attempted to achieve a good balance between friendship and discipline. – Nikki Holm
• I think that we need to be a little more organized and plan out more before we come?!? (possibly) I just felt really lost when I first got here. – Carrie Anderson
• I learned so much just in the first week, but I was able to see the impact of my example, teaching, and actions. – Jeremy Ploof

Comments Summer II:

• I feel very empowered to use my gifts and challenge myself to better my ministry.
• I feel like I’ve learned many different ways to minister to people because everyone’s needs are different. However, I don’t feel like I’ll ever be totally competent. – Sara Peterson
• Living and working with the youth for two weeks in this camp atmosphere exposes us as counselors to several issues that could not really be taught in class and we are able to learn how to handle them. – Kelly Taylor
• Need to work on authority, more organization and counselors being on the same level. – Laura Lewis

2. Integrate theological study, service/justice, faith community, and prayer into their
    theology of ministry.

Comments – Summer I:

• I learned a lot about different types of prayer experiences. – Cari White
• Much emphasis on the underlined aspects (service, community, and prayer). – Christopher Thelen
• I think we as a community did an amazing job at offering youth opportunities to learn about numerous faith aspects and spiritualities. This was combined with opportunities and assessments of service and justice as well as profitable to foster a nurturing and respectful community. – Nikki Holm
• I found that I was doing it almost subconsciously. I wouldn’t even realize that I was doing it. When I would try too hard, then it wouldn’t come; but when I wouldn’t even notice, I would be bringing in things I learned from my theology classes, etc. – Carrie Anderson
• All elements are very well balanced and often work in harmony. – Jeremy Ploof

3. Foster the discernment of their vocation.

Comments Summer I:

• Sometimes I wonder if I can really do this, but it’s good to think about. – Cari White
• A whole night was devoted for vocation. – Christopher Thelen
• I actually did a lot more time discerning my call over these two weeks than my personal strengths and weaknesses as far as ministry is concerned. – Nikki Holm
• Um yeah, YTM flipped my world around! I’m definitely considering more seriously my vocation, and I plan to spend more time praying and listening and seriously considering religious life. – Carrie Anderson
• Progress was made for myself. – Jeremy Ploof

Comments Summer II:

• The practical aspect of this job and the vocation banquet have really helped me in my discernment process. – Sara Peterson
• Last year more so than this year. – Kate Eder
• Although I’ve heard good advice, I don’t feel I’m too much farther in my decision making. – Kelly Taylor
• We had a few excellent conversations about vocation. This community is an open place to discuss true vocation. – Laura Lewis

II. Overall Evaluation of YTM

1. What was the most important thing you learned at YTM about yourself, about
    theology, about youth or the adults who work with them or about ministry?

Comments Summer I:

• This is hard work…but good. – Cari White
• War vs. peace arguments: How to relate nonbiasedly. – Christopher Thelen
• I learned so much about youth and their potential for mature, deep faith. I learned that I have a lot to learn about theology, ministry, youth, and myself.
• I learned so much at YTM about all of the above; however, one of the most important things I learned was to be a strong, confident, responsible leader. I developed so much faith in my abilities to work with youth and help to comfort them. The responsibility was at times overwhelming, but I found a good balance and was able to accept the responsibility and enforce rules. – Carrie Anderson
• I learned not to (beat myself up) or dwell on my mistakes. – Jeremy Ploof

Comments Summer II:

• YTM reinforced the importance of having confidence in myself and my ministry.
• I feel like I have become a more competent leader, especially through the planning stages of different activities. I also feel like my faith and knowledge is increased through learning about our faith, doing service, learning about others, and especially from talking and learning from the youth. – Sarah Peterson
• I had the opportunity to plan the Environmental Justice Track which I learned a great deal about a more “social justice” educational aspect about ministry. – Lindsay Saugen
• I learned that you cannot always affect the change that you want, but you can make some difference. – Kate Eder
• Wow, I’d say I learned a lot. As for the most important from this summer, I guess I’d say (or re-emphasize since we’re good at that) that things, or people, aren’t always as they seem and it’s important to (a) not assume how one person will handle things and (b) realize you are NEVER alone and don’t think you are. Someone understands what you’re going through. – Kelly Taylor
• I learned to trust other team members, and to be supportive of them. Standing up for others, all youth are special and need to be treated that way. I have learned there are a variety of ways to reach youth and to minister to them. – Laura Lewis

2. What was the best or most effective aspect of the YTM program?

Comments Summer I:

• My favorite part was having the blessing every evening to learn and find appreciation for a different faith practice. I was highly impressed with all of the counselor led activities. – Nikki Holm
• I think that the overall concept of YTM is amazing. The theology classes in the morning followed by service in the afternoon are an amazing way of engaging our minds, working with our hands, and strengthening the love in our hearts. It’s hard to say which is the most effective because the theology classes and service compliment each other so well. – Carrie Anderson
• Having the most blessed Jeff Kaster and most capable Katina in charge. Daily meetings with counselors to assure and communicate. – Jeremy Ploof

Comments Summer II:

• Communal support.
• The best part of YTM is that community is stressed – that we can grow in our individual spirituality through our Catholic community and tradition and learning about other traditions.
• I also think it’s really important how it is stressed that YTM is not God – it points us to Christ.
• Couldn’t pick one! – Lindsay Saugen
• It provides youth an opportunity to have a place where their faith is accepted and even encouraged. It also encourages them to live out their faith by bringing that acceptance and support back home with them. – Kate Elder
• I would say Summer I – Service; Summer II – synagogue, mosque; and our environmental tracks – getting off campus and into something new. – Kelly Taylor
• The theology class and service project. It makes the youth take action outside of YTM and into the world. – Laura Lewis

3. What recommendations do you have to improve the program?

Comments Summer I:

• Nothing – if I think of some, I’ll let you know in class. – Cari White
• Greater cultural diversity in the student population. – Christopher Thelen
• My only recommendations are to leave more time for cabin time and free time so that the youth have time to use up their energy at appropriate times so they can listen and participate better at other times. – Nikki Holm
• I think that we need to strive to keep some variety in our days along with more free time on certain days. – Carrie Anderson
• I am all about ecumenism, but I have reservations about going to a mosque. – Jeremy Ploof

Comments Summer II:

• The tracks can use some improvement. Find a director who would be more engaging…just kidding! You are amazing, Jeff! Thanks so much for your support!
• The Summer 2 track system should continue to be used. Healthier snacks would be nice at the socials. – Sara Peterson
• More “hang out” experiences – NOT games, but a trip to a park or Twins game on the weekend. – Lindsay Saugen
• The tracks are an improvement, but still need work. I heard the politician thing didn’t work very well. I will say more later – when I think of them. – Kate Eder
• None at this time…oh yeah – for Summer II tracks – redo the politician part. The politician exposure is important, but the format of the gathering was not effective. – Kelly Taylor
• Just bringing in one speaker for the panel. Earlier bed time or wind down time. – Laura Lewis

4. What is your overall assessment of YTM?

Comments Summer I:

• YTM is awesome. – Cari White
• I loved it! Thanks so much for the opportunity! – Nikki Holm
• I had a wonderful experience during which I learned immeasurable amounts about leadership, ministry, theology, youth, and myself. Thank you for being wonderful teachers! – Carrie Anderson
• “St. Kaster…pray for us!” – Jeremy Ploof

Comments Summer II:

• YTM truly is building the reign on God. – Jessica Heinen
• YTM is amazing – it has positively shaped parts of my life and the youth have an amazing opportunity to learn about life, theology, prayer, service… - Sara Peterson
• This camp has expanded my mind and spirit. – Lindsay Saugen
• It rocks! – Kate Eder
• It is a wonderful experience. – Laura Lewis

YTM Year-to-Year Youth Evaluation Comparison 2000-2005

YTM Components: Combined Summer I & Summer II

     Excellent          Poor
Theology Component 5 4 3 2 1
2000 (35 Youth) 74% 26% 0% 0% 0%
2001 (72 Youth) 79% 21% 0% 0% 0%
2002 (78 Youth) 62% 36% 1% 0% 0%
2003 (50 Youth) 57% 39% 3% 0% 0%
2004      (37 Youth) 60% 32% 8% 0% 0%
2005 (44 Youth) 46% 34% 15% 5% 0%

Prayer Component
2000 78% 22% 0% 0% 0%
2001 72% 25% 3% 0% 0%
2002 64% 26% 10% 0% 0%
2003 77% 23% 0% 0% 0%
2004 55% 40% 5% 0% 0%
2005 (RCIA Process) 40% 32% 18% 5% 0%

Service Component  (Summer I Only)
2000 (35 Youth) 67% 33% 0% 0% 0%
2001 (42 Youth) 63% 37% 0% 0% 0%
2002 (38 Youth) 57% 38% 5% 0% 0%
2003 (22 Youth) 76% 24% 0% 0% 0%
2004 (19 Youth) 89% 11% 0% 0% 0%
2005 (25 Youth) 78% 22% 0% 0% 0%

Leadership Component (Summer II Only)
2001 (30 Youth) 67% 33% 0% 0% 0%
2002 (40 Youth) 29% 53% 18% 0% 0%
2003 (28 Youth) 40% 36% 20% 4% 0%
2004 (18 Youth) 39% 56% 5% 0% 0%
2005 (19 Youth)   5%         53% 32% 5% 0%

Community Component
2000 89% 11% 0% 0% 0%
2001 89% 6% 5% 0% 0%
2002 77% 21% 1% 0% 0%
2003 77% 23% 0% 0% 0%
2004 86% 14% 0% 0% 0%
2005 87% 13% 0% 0% 0%

Overall YTM Evaluation
2000 93% 7% 0% 0% 0%
2001 93% 7% 0% 0% 0%
2002 80% 19% 1% 0%           0%
2003 80% 18% 2% 0% 0%
2004 83% 17% 0% 0% 0%
2005 90% 7% 3% 0% 0%

5. A. 2 Evaluation Comments Youth 2005

1. What is the most important thing you learned at YTM?

Summer I Comments

• I learned who I am and that God loves me for me. I don't have to be cool or popular to be cool to God. (Emily Bergen)
• I learned more about the Catholic Church and also about God and certain things I have been oblivious to my whole life. (Kurt Marsh)
• To find your faith through any means and to become Christ for the world and be one community, on body in Christ. (Garrett Ahlers)
• That God has different callings for us and that there are different kinds of vocations.
• How to be a leader. (Sam Harvey)
• My realization of how much the elderly need interaction with the world; The flashlight analogy; The feeling of a loving, Catholic community; I have learned more about my religion and have found a lot of myself here at YTM. By seeing how others pray in public, I have learned how to not be ashamed of, for example, closing my eyes and folding my hands tightly in public - of not being ashamed of praying hard and fully. I have learned how to pray in public, to sing in public (masses, worshiping services) and that is something I will strive to take back and spread with my parish. (Theresa Cho)
• I learned that it's okay to question and doubt your faith and that, in fact, it actually can help you learn. Even though I still have doubts, I feel more comfortable with them and know that I'm not alone. God will always love me. (Meghan Bill)
• How much community impacts a person's faith. It is easy to be committed to God in the presence of a strong Catholic community, but the struggle is to see the communities outside of YTM and to use the strong community I already have in YTM and to rely on these communities to change our world. (Melissa Gross)
• I learned how important it is to have a good relationship with God.
• I learned that God is loving and He's everywhere. (Shawn Pili)
• Persevere in imperfections because to God you are prefect! O Yeah and “I am washable.” (Avery Tooley)
• I learned it from my theology class. That the Bible is telling the same story (how God separated chaos from life) but they just used different scenarios. Also, that the Creed was created before the Bible was. (Andrea Enzler)
• I don't know. Everything I learned is important. (Thomas Anderson)
• Your life is for God! (Jamie Remaekers)
• The Holy Spirit works through all of us. (Jerad Timmerman)
• To not be afraid to doubt and question things and that friends are the best assets you can have. (Becky Swing)
• We all need each other to make a difference, even in our own little ways.
• That it is good to have questions about your faith. (Mara Syman)
• To follow my heart.
• In order to live a full life that matters, I have to live out God's word every day. Not just at camp, not just on Sundays, not just on retreats. I need to find God in my actions, thoughts and words. I need to spread God's word to everyone and see where I can be called to help in the world. (Sarah Prather)
• Bobertz lesson about chaos and order.
• That faith shouldn’t be alone. (Philip Bartley) 
• I learned to respect others who are different than myself. I may not agree with everything people may do, but I need to respect them as a person. (Becca Creger)
• Everyone has a call and all of us are necessary to make the body of Christ. (Gretchen Sumabat)

Summer II Comments

• God is good all the time! And so much more… (Tiffany Boucher)
• I learned that I am not alone and I have a family at YTM and the church to support me in my faith. (Jane Margolis) 
• I don't want to be a Benedict. (Jack Powers)
• YTM is like a perfect place. I have wondered why it couldn't be like that everywhere. But then I figured why not? It definitely could if we tried. (Sara Aviles)
• That we can all serve God by serving others in many different ways. That we can make a difference even though we are just teenagers; that its better to give than to receive; and that success in a large project comes from many coming together to fulfill and accomplish a goal. (Makensie Allex)
• Don't judge, accept all and you shall be accepted. Different aspects of my faith and increased my knowledge. Every body is your friend and you can be yourself and express your beliefs respectfully and peacefully! (Chuckie Kaucic)
• I don't know. (Frances Lawler)
• Community. God is present in communities. Everything is more meaningful when done together - living, learning, and loving.
• Keep asking questions. Never give up.
• That God is present in everyone in crazy and mysterious and wonderful ways and that God is working in my life through these people. (Angela Tate)
• There is no such thing as loneliness when you share a faith as strong as ours! (Chandra Dunham)
• How to be how I want me to be like. I learned how to meet many people from different places and learn more about my faith. (Zachary Twigg)
• To love one another and that Jon is hard working as a counselor and deserves room service and a   bigger salary.
• It's okay to struggle and it's okay to be afraid because God will still love you and you'll eventually find your way. (Suzannah Gau)
• That God is helping to find my vocation. (Arissa Wibe)
• I learned that no matter what you may be called to be, the church will support you and because of YTM, kids can make huge differences in the world. (Nadia Christensen)
• I learned that we are not just to be spectators, but we must be involved in bringing about God's kingdom and that there are many people and resources to help us on our quest. (Justin Shay)

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Youth in Theology and Ministry Program
Saint John's School of Theology·Seminary
Box 7288, Collegeville, Minnesota 56321