Why do teens graduate from their faith when they graduate from high school or eighth grade? In most cases, they never made a personal connection with the local church. While traditional religious education is filled with priceless information and catechesis, the delivery system of that information is insufficient.

This next generation of disciples doesn't need more schooling. They need Christ-like relationships with their peers as well as men and women who display healthy relationships with Christ and their Catholic faith. Small groups will achieve this. Through small groups, kids and teenagers will grow deeper in their faith, connect with the local church, and experience true life change.

Chris Wesley, Director of Student Ministry at Church of the Nativity (the inspiration for the book Rebuilt), will focus on why small groups are essential to student ministry, what a healthy small group looks like, and how you can get them started in your parish.