YOUTH
Leaders Handbook





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in 2016

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YOUTH LEADERS' HANDBOOK

National Council of Catholic Women

1312 Massachusetts Avenue N. W.

Washington, D. C.



TABLE OF CONTENTS

Preface *4 3

Foreword .... 4

Prayer For Youth 5

Youth and Catholic Action 6

General Policies 10

N.C.C.W. Youth Committee •. 14

Suggestions for Youth Committee 17

Leadership 19

Plans for Programming 25

Crusading for Christ 28

(Living the Liturgy 30

Youth and Economic Life 31

Youth and Peace 33

Youth and Civic Life 34

Vocational Guidance 35

Career Conference 36

Parent Education 37

Home Arts 39

Group Songs 41

The Role of Dramatics 43

Handcrafts 45

Girls’ Athletics 47

Play Days 49

Community Nights 50

Hiking and Camping 51

Suggestive List of Sports 52

Hobbies ... 53

Unusual Parties 54

Bibliography 55



PREFACE

LAY LEADERSHIP'S OPPORTUNITY

Every form of Catholic Action depends essentially for initiative,

approval and guidance upon the hierarchy and clergy. It is “par-

ticipation of the laity in the apostolate of the hierarchy”. Nothing less

is worthy of the name of “Catholic Action”.

However, for effective Catholic Action there is unquestionably also

need of lay leadership, groups of informed, zealous, capable laymen and

laywomen, who are willing to pass on from the hierarchy to their

brethren in the faith not only the tasks to be promoted but also the

spirit in which they are to be carried on. Every diocese, parish and

community has available such men and women, but frequently they are

hesitant in offering their services for lack of training or sufficient in-

terest.

In The Youth Leaders’ Handbook the National Council of Catholic

Women presents a practical guide which will enable Catholic Actionists,
who are especially interested in youth, to acquire useful knowledge of

the aims and methods of the Catholic Youth Movement. Its contents

have been carefully selected and actually tested throughout a period of

several years. The results have been so gratifying that the new printed

edition is deemed almost a necessity.

Knowing the need of and the demand for a Catholic answer to the

universal awareness of a real American youth problem, this booklet is

placed in the hands of Catholic priests and laymen in the hope that it

may be found helpful. No modern movement seems more important or
urgent than that which aims to form the minds, hearts and even the

physical natures of youth according to sound Catholic principles and

ideals. This Handbook is dedicated to making these principles and ideals

the basis of our Catholic Youth Movement, so that this in turn may
develop a generation of Catholics strong in faith, unhesitating in their

religious profession, absolutely faithful to the precepts and principles

of Christian morality. Such a youth can and will be the leaven of right-

eousness for the America of today and of tomorrow.

We pray upon this effort the blessing of Jesus, the Friend of chil-
dren and of Youth, and beseech for it the good will of priests, the re-

ligious and the laity of the land.

^ Joseph Francis Rummel,
Archbishop of New Orleans,

Episcopal Chairman of

the N.C.W.C. Department of Lay Organizations.



FOREWORD

This, the second edition of the Youth Leaders’ Handbook prepared

by the Youth Committee of the National Council of Catholic Women,

is the result of actual experience in youth work, through more than

fifty dioceses. The ideas here incorporated have come from coaches,

leaders, men and women lay sponsors, priest directors and even mem-
bers of the Hierarchy. Through questionnaires, tested plans, field work,

conferences, and committee deliberations, has been evolved this frame-

work of fundamentals on which a program of youth can be built.

It is not the handbook of a new organization. It is a guide for tap-

ping the resources of community, parish, and diocese in order to secure

that plan most ideal for the diocese considering it. It attempts to pro-

vide for the use in some manner of every Catholic force available. It

takes into consideration also those usable resources of public and semi-

private facilities. Probably no one diocese will use all of it unaltered

because the needs and equipment of each are different, but all will find

a basis on which to build, and stimulating thought on the requisites of a

youth program.

Almost since its organization, N.C.C.W. has interested itself in

work among youth. Formerly through the Girls’ Welfare Committee

and later through the National Youth Committee this phase of Catholic

Action has been studied. For several years the Women’s Council called

together annually the heads of all national Catholic organizations in-

terested in girl youth for the interchange of ideas and a coordination of

services. Through these meetings it gained an invaluable fund of ma-

terial which is now being used to assist many groups in finding where

the various aids can best be employed. Since N.C.C.W. is a federation,

its committees are intended to serve organizations in carrying out the

program decided upon by each individual Bishop.

No other one topic perhaps is gaining more attention from those

entrusted with leadership than is the organization of youth work. As

His Excellency Archbishop Rummel so perfectly expresses it in his

preface to this book, “No modern movement seems more important or

urgent than that which aims to form the minds, hearts, and even the

physical natures of youth according to sound Catholic principles and

ideals.” Catholic lay leaders then must prepare to work intelligently

and sincerely according to the plan set up by their Bishops for securing

to youth the means by which to play, to work, to think, and to pray in

the spirit of the Church. There is so much to be done that all effort

must be cherished. May your work give to young people that fragrance

of justice, of charity, and of beauty which clings about the teachings

of Truth to the end that despite these chaotic times, they may discharge

gallantly and joyfully the mission of living.

Anne Sarachon Hooley.



PRAYER FOR YOUTH

Almighty God, Who through Thy own divine Son, Jesus
Christ, givest the example and, through grace, the power of

worthy youth, grant unto the youth of our day an abiding per-

sonal love of Thy Son, Through Thy Holy Spirit inspire them

with a passion for personal rectitude and fidelity to clean and

upright living. Deepen in them the conviction that with them

rests the worth of the world in the coming years; the increase

of the Communion of Saints and of the eternal glory of Thy

Son, and our Savior, Jesus Christ, Who livest and reignest with
Thee and the Holy Spirit, one God world without end. Amen.

From “Pray for Us” by

The Late Rt. Rev. John J. Burke, C.S.P., S.T.D.

First General Secretary

National Catholic Welfare Conference

Courtesy of P. J. Kenedy & Sons, Publishers

Greetings or ejaculation:

To Christ, Our King! (Greeting)

Eternal Praise. (Answer)



YOUTH AND CATHOLIC ACTION
Youth today has a real place in the field of Catholic Action inas-

much as the repeated clarion call of the Sovereign Pontiffs is to ALL
Catholics, men, women, YOUNG MEN AND YOUNG WOMEN. Our
late Holy Father, Pope Pius XI, at the Catholic Jubilee Congress held

in Rome in 1930, sounded the following key-note:

“Young People, you are Our co-workers. We demand of you,
the Vicar of Christ demands of you, your collaboration.”

Catholic Action is defined as the “participation of the laity in the

apostolate of the hierarchy.” Pius X in his Encyclical II Fermo Proposito
states: “Catholic Action, since it proposes to itself to restore all things

in Christ, constitutes a true apostolate on behalf of Christ Himself.”

Pius XI adds: “Catholic Action is a universal and harmonious action

of all Catholics without exception of age, sex, social condition, cul-

ture or social or political tendencies.”

In 1939 His Holiness, Pope Pius XI, gave a longer definition of

Catholic Action when in writing to Cardinal Bertram he said: “Catho-

lic Action consists not merely of the pursuit of personal Christian per-

fection, which is, however, before all others its first and greatest end,

but it also consists of a true apostolate in which Catholics of every

social class participate, coming thus to be united in thought and action

around those centers of sound doctrine and multiple social activity, legi-

timately constituted, and as a result, aided and sustained by the author-

ity of the bishops.”

Our Present Needs

The present era is undeniably one of great religious strife and gen-

eral unrest. The watchful eye of the Vicar of Christ quickly detected

the feverish action of inimical elements menacing the Church and her

teachings.

Catholic Action was meant to unite all Catholics, young and old, in

guarding against the onslaught of the enemy. In all written and spoken

statements of Pope Pius on Catholic Action, however, his chief concern

is the education and safeguarding of youth. He is concerned not merely

with the development of the mind through the education given youth

by the formal agency—the School, but also with the development of the
whole aggregate of the human being, spiritually, morally, physically,

and socially. He deems this essential, if a firm foundation is to be laid

for the Church of tomorrow.

In his Encyclical on The Christian Education of Youth, he clearly

states : “It is no less necessary to direct and watch the education of the

adolescent, ‘soft as wax to be moulded into vice’, in whatever other

environment he may happen to be, removing occasions of evil and pro-

viding occasions for good in his recreations and social intercourses; for

‘evil communications corrupt good manners’. More than ever nowadays

an extended and careful vigilance is necessary, inasmuch as the dangers

of moral and religious shipwreck are greater for inexperienced youth.”



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 7

Decree of the Holy Office

Organized Catholic effort in behalf of youth was strongly urged in

a decree of the Holy Office issued in Rome on November 5, 1920, which

read in part as follows:

“The Holy Office calls attention of Ordinaries of places to the fact

that certain associations of non-Catholics are doing great harm to Cath-

olic youth by drawing them away from the faith under the pretext of

affording them opportunities for physical culture and education. The

inexperienced can easily be deceived by the fact that these associations

have the financial and moral support of very respectable citizens, and

do very effective work in various fields of beneficence. Their real nature,

however, is no longer doubtful, as it has been openly declared in the

magazines which are their organs. They aim, as they say, to cultivate

the characters and improve the morals of youth. This culture which is

their religion, they define as ‘perfect freedom of thought, dissociated

from the control of any religious creed.’

“These youths . . . who are endangered are first shaken in their

traditional faith . . . and finally induced to acquiesce in a vague sort of

general religion . . . The greatest injury occurs in the case of those

whose home training in religion has been wanting through negligence or

ignorance.”

After pointing out that certain associations attack the faith of

youth under the pretense of purifying it and of giving youth a better

knowledge of the true way of life “above all churches and apart from

any religious creed”, the Sacred Congregation asks all Ordinaries “to

guard young people carefully from the contagion of these societies . . .

To warn the unwary and confirm those who are faltering in faith; build

others of the same kind; call upon the wealthy of our faith to help, so

that they may have the means to combat the enemy. At the same time
exhort pastors and those who have the charge of organizations of youth

to do their duty vigorously, and especially by the publication of books

and pamphlets to check the errors that are being broadcast, to expose

the wiles and deceits of the enemy, and to come to the assistance of

those who are looking for the truth.”

SPECIAL MESSAGES TO AMERICA

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph Schrembs, Archbishop-

Bishop of Cleveland and first Episcopal Chairman of the N.C.W.C. De-

partment of Lay Organizations, in 1922 brought from His Holiness,

then Pope Pius XI, a message of love for America, a special blessing

to the American Hierarchy and the National Catholic Welfare Council,

and a benediction to America’s Catholic Young People, to whom, His

Holiness said, the world must now look for the solution of many of its
problems. In his message to the Catholic youth of America the Holy

Father said:

“I love America better than any other country. Especially do

I love the youth of America, for I know it is to this youth that the

world must look for the solution of the problems which now affect

the nations. The youth of America has a great responsibility, a



8 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

great opportunity for service to the world, and I send them my
blessing and ask God’s benediction upon them that they may be the
better fitted for the great task that will be theirs to perform. That

they may be strengthened for His great service I pray that they
may become strong in the faith.”

This call from the Supreme Shepherd of the Church to the Catholic

youth of our country should thrill the heart of every Catholic young

man and woman of America and awaken therein the desire and deter-
mination to meet successfully the great responsibility which the Holy

Father has pointed out to them.

Only a few years ago, Pope Benedict XV, of blessed memory,

appealed to America, the youngest daughter of the Church, to be the

leader in all things Catholic. His successor on the Throne of Peter

looked with confidence to the youth of America to set an example to the

entire world in meeting and solving the difficult problems which con-

front the Church and all society in these troubled times. And only

recently in an address to the American delegates to the Congress of the

Youth Section of the International Union of Catholic Women’s Leagues

in Rome, April 1939, our present gloriously reigning Pontiff, Pius XII,

declared: “American Youth has a real mission in the world.”

THE HEIRARCHY SPEAKS

The American Hierarchy, conforming to the request of the Holy

Father, has seriously viewed the problems confronting the Catholic

Youth of America. Many members of the Hierarchy have vigorously

endorsed the formation of youth organizations under Catholic auspices,

as they readily recognize the extreme necessity of safeguarding Catho-

lic youth during its leisure hours.

The Apostolic Delegate to the United States, the Most Reverend

Amleto Giovanni Cicognani, in addressing the National Convention of

the National Council of Catholic Women, endorsed their efforts in

behalf of youth when he said: “Organize youth ever more widely on

the foundation of that piety and wisdom which is proper to you, and

above all in exemplifying and applying the truths of the Gospel to the

social life of the day ... To give to our youth ... a love of Catholic

truth and a determination to carry it out both in personal life and as

members of Catholic organizations is a really great crusade to which

you may lend all the resources at your command.”

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Joseph Francis Rummel, D.D.,

Archbishop of New Orleans and Episcopal Chairman of the N.C.W.C.
Department of Lay Organizations, speaking at the 1936 annual conven-

tion of the National Council of Catholic Women at Galveston, devoted a
portion of his address to the youth problem in America, saying: “All

modern movements and agencies are concentrating their efforts on the

conquest of youth. He who controls the mind and interest of youth

controls the future. . . Hence, the organization and sponsoring of a

wholesome, vigorous Catholic youth movement is not only timely but

highly necessary. Its program should have the approval, blessing and

guidance of the Ordinary of each diocese, but the development of the



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 9

program and the carrying out of its details must be the work of the

laity. . . Such a movement, supplementing the purely spiritual mission

of the Church and broadening her educational program will lay a strong

foundation of character building and noble living for the rising genera-

tion and set up effective barriers against the onward march of the

astute groups that are plotting, openly and in secret, the conquest of

youth for their sinister designs.”

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Emmet M. Walsh, D.D., Bishop

of Charleston and Assistant to the Episcopal Chairman of the N.C.W.C.

Department of Lay Organizations, said in a 1939 “Call to Youth” radio

broadcast: “The youth program of the National Council of Catholic

Women is inspired by this Christian concept of society. The Council has
a well-balanced program of wholesome recreation, religious instruction,

social study and cultural development. Every part of the program is

vital and no part should be neglected by the youthful Christian who

truly desires to grow into full Christian maturity alive with the won-

drous values, to lead youth in a modern crusade for the restoration of

the Kingdom of Christ. In this I wish you God’s choicest blessings.”

The Right Reverend Monsignor Michael J. Ready, General Secre-

tary of the National Catholic Welfare Conference, at the 1938 Con-

vention of the National Council of Catholic Women held in Washington,
said: “The present temper of society demands that Catholic youth with

its fine intelligence and noble chivalry must begin today to save the

world for Christ tomorrow.”



GENERAL POLICIES

NATIONAL COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN
1. The Catholic Youth Program should be

National in scope

Diocesan in authority

Deanery in participation

Parish in function

2. A National Program definite enough to aid
Flexible enough to serve local communities

3. A program varied enough for all interests
Allowing selection to suit need and

Assuring a well-rounded development

4. A program adaptable to all organizations
Giving aid and direction to all youth groups

5. A program fitted for varying age levels
Junior groups

High School groups

Out-of-school groups

6. A program with an adult lay sponsoring organization
That of the National Council of Catholic Women

7. A program of oneness so that the girls will develop from the Junior
groups, through the high school and post high school groups

into the adult program of Catholic Action.

8. A complete program of Catholic Action, based on
1. Formation (Prayer—Study)
2. Apostolate (Action)

The outlined policies are here based on the fundamental philosophy

of Catholic Action.

1. The Youth program should be national in scope, diocesan in

authority, and parochial in function,”

“
. . . since it is an apostolate organized hierarchically. As an

aid to the hierarchy, Catholic Action in its organization must, of

necessity, adapt itself to the hierarchical organization. It should

first of all be parochial, grouped around the pastor. It is essential-

ly diocesan (diocesan groups at the disposal of the bishop) in con-

formity with the great principle nil sine episcopo (nothing apart

from the bishop).

“Finally, it should have a national . . . coordinating center (in

the United States, this is the N.C.W.C.) to bring about the unity

necessary for the welfare of the whole nation. For as a matter of

fact, there are problems, measures, and activities that go beyond

the limits of dioceses.”—Conferences on Catholic Action, page 13.
2. A national program definite enough to aid, flexible enough to

serve.



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 11

“It is easy to understand,” the Holy Father stated, “how

Catholic Action, in its practical realization, will vary according to

differences in age and sex and also in accordance with varying

conditions of time and place. Organizations of youths will always

naturally apply themselves chiefly to the work of education and

preparation, while the energies of mature years will find a wider

field for their apostolate. And so no form of useful activity will be

excluded, none will be neglected that is connected in any way with

the divine mission of the Church.”—Conferences on Catholic
Action, pages 16-17.

3. A program varied enough for all interests, allowing selection
to suit need, to include religious, cultural, vocational, recreational and

service activities

—

These give to us our bases for a well-balanced program. As

our Holy Father, Pope Pius XI, stressed in his Encyclical, The

Christian Education of Youth:

“Complete education takes in the whole aggregate of human

life, "physical and spiritual, intellectual and moral, individual,

domestic and social. The true Christian does not renounce the

activities of this life; he does not stunt natural faculties; but he

develops and perfects them by coordinating them with the super-

natural. Thus he ennobles what is merely natural in life and

secures for it new strength in the material and temporal order, no

less than in the spiritual and eternal.”

4. A program adaptable to all organizations—“Catholic Action
embraces in its programme every form of apostolate.” Pope Pius XII

in his paternal allocutions to the delegates of the International Union

of Catholic Women’s Leagues in April 1939 stressed “the value of unity

in variety,” and earlier we have:

“We need to put the various activities into contact, and to
coordinate them. We have not said, to fuse them, but to coordinate
them; this means, to reduce to a moral unity ever more intimate

and close all the branches of Catholic Action ... a true organic

body, composed, therefore, of distinct elements, not entering the

one into the other, but none the less all of them concurring into one

and the same vitality, each intent upon its own functions, yet having

as an aim that unity of endeavor, of thoughts, and of work without

which no real success is possible.”—Speech to the Superior Coun-
cils of Italian Catholic Action, June 28, 1930.

5. A program fitted for varying age levels and sex.

“While remaining united, as constituting one single family and

one single pacific army for the spread of the Kingdom of Jesus

Christ, Catholics may well be grouped in different organizations.
The most natural criterion, suggested by the papal documents

themselves, is that of age and of sex.

“The Holy Father has insisted on other occasions upon this

differentiation of age and sex, taking for granted that the training

for the apostolate requires one method for men, another for

women.”—Conferences on Catholic Action, page 16.



12 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

6. It is urged that men direct the program for young men and
boys; that women direct the young women and girls, working with
their pastors always. All should meet the requirements laid down for

lay leaders by the Holy Father:

“The priest moderator, says the Holy Father, is the soul of the

association, the inspiration for all good undertakings, the source

of zeal. The Holy Father calls him the fellow laborer of the

bishop and has summarized the importance and the responsibility

of his mission in these words: ‘In manibus tuis sortes meac.’ (My

fate is in thy hands.) The necessity of a thorough training for this

work is evident. The Holy Father has emphasized it many times.

But the requirements laid down by Pius XI apply, also, propor-

tionately to lay leaders. Their moral education has the same

importance as their intellectual training. It embraces: (1) Develop-

ment of character, (2) acquisition of virtues, (3) education of con-

science.

“It is chiefly supernatural; consequently, it has recourse to the

powerful aids of revelation and grace. But it requires, nevertheless,

of the leader himself an earnest and persistent effort.

“The leader should be a person of prayer, devoted to the

practice of virtue and inclined to mental prayer. Daily meditation,

particular examen, frequentation of the sacraments, daily Mass,

spiritual direction and retreats are to be recommended.

“The virtue that should shine forth from the life of every

member of Catholic Action, that should characterize in a very

special manner every leader, is the virtue of docility to ecclesiastical

authority, the spirit of self-denial, of charity and harmony with

other organizations and with the individuals belonging to those

organizations.”—Conferences on Catholic Action, Pages 18-19.
7. Program of Oneness.

Pius XI says: “Catholic Action must form one great family of

men, women, including the youth of either sex, stirred by the self

same desire of participating in the sacred ministry of the Church

and at her bidding to cooperate in the spreading of Christ in indi-

vidual families and society.”

In April, 1939, His Holiness, Pope Pius XII, in his first group

audience addressed the Youth and Senior divisions of the Inter-

national Union of Catholic Women’s Leagues, as follows:

“It is with keen joy and hope that We receive you today, the
delegates to the Tenth Congress of the International Union of

Catholic Women’s Leagues. With joy, for you represent millions

of women as generous as yourselves, giving obedient and devoted

cooperation to the hierarchy of the Church in their apostolate . . .

It is particularly pleasing to Us to see in your International Union,

the Youth Section existing simultaneously and in harmony with

the Adult Section. It is like certain privileged trees which some-

times are ornamented with fruit and flowers at the same time.

Near workers already covered with merit and rich with experience

are happily found the apprentices, who hope to devote themselves



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 13

to the work, and for this seek ‘formation and preparation’, re-

ceiving the advice of those who precede them, not so much as

lessons imposed on them, but rather as treasures offered to them.

Each of these sections has its own methods and projects; for there

again the suitable adaptation of work to the environment is neces-

sary. But in spite of these external differences the same interior

flame of purely supernatural zeal burns in all souls,—which are
ageless.”

8. A complete program of Catholic Action—Formation and Apos-
tolate.

“Catholic Action must consist of two things—it must fall into
two parts not necessarily successive ones: two divisions, ideal and

moral. A work of formation in any case. Catholic Action must have
as preliminary the individual sanctification of each one of its mem-

bers: so that the supernatural life abounds and superabounds

within them. But after this first and formative element, comes the

second—the distribution of this life, the action of apostolate, which
means putting into practice, in all its extensions and in all its

possibilities, the first apostolate of all, that of the Twelve Apostles.”

(Speech to the Directors of the Catholic Action of Rome, April 19,

1931—Pope Pius XI.)

For further study:

Encyclicals of Sovereign Pontiffs

N.C.W.C.—10c each

Manual of Catholic Action, by Msgr. Luigi Civardi

Sheed & Ward—$2.00
Conferences on Catholic Action, by Most Rev. Guiseppe Pizzardo, D.D,

N.C.C.W.—25c



N.C.C.W.—YOUTH COMMITTEE

The N.C.C.W. through its National Youth Committee, extends its

services to the dioceses asking such cooperation, in the hope that lay

sponsors may understand “Youth in Catholic Action”; may aid the
bishops and clergy in effecting a well rounded organization; may guide
youth in its own service and may establish a net-work of action

—

National, Diocesan, Deanery and Parish.

The N.C.C.W. maintains a suggestive service everywhere. Since

Catholic Action is “diocesan in authority” all plans are subject to the

will of the Ordinary. The N.C.C.W. never works in a diocese without

the written invitation from the Bishop.

The N.C.C.W. since its inception in 1919 has worked with young

girls and women. From 1919 to 1935 this was done through the Girl’s

Welfare Committee; in 1935 to meet wider demands steadily being made

this was changed to the Youth Committee, a National Youth Chairman

and a Field Secretary of Youth were appointed.

The N.C.C.W. realizes that youth needs and wishes guidance of

understanding adults. Guidance solely by priest directors or profes-

sional people is not possible, even if desirable, in most dioceses. Often

there are not enough priests to be released for this work, and the parish

priest is far too busy to give it the attention it needs, even were he

prepared to do it effectively. We can never hope to be able to finance
professionally trained workers in sufficient numbers. Even were this

possible, we would still hold that adult sponsors within the group are

essential. For Catholic Action “is the participation of the laity”.

Further such sponsorship is essential in all youth work. A first premise
of group work is “carry your community with you”. Older organiza-

tions have found this true, as evidenced by the Y.M.C.A., Y.W.C.A.,

Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, etc., that have their adult boards and leaders.

So it is the hope that the N.C.C.W. may more effectively train

leaders, aid them in youth organization and maintain an advisory ser-

vice.

The N.C.C.W. expresses gratitude for the encouragement which has

met its efforts in behalf of youth; willingly do its officers and members

dedicate themselves anew to the glorious task of aiding in the important

mission of character building along religious, moral, intellectual and

cultural lines in conformity with the ideals and principles of our Cath-

olic faith.



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 15

The N.C.C.W. Committee on Youth

The purpose of the Youth Committee is:

1. To aid Youth Councils throughout the country
—
“To give to our

Youth, particularly to the girls and young women of our day, a

knowledge, a love, of Catholic truth and a determination to

carry it out both in personal life and as a member of Catholic

organizations.’

2. To establish a channelizing net-work—National, Diocesan, Dean-
ery and Parish.

3. To bring Catholic standards to the leisure time programs of the

country and to interpret the Catholic philosophy of recreation

to all.

The National Committee:

Each parish has a parish chairman of Youth.

The parish chairmen compose the deanery committee.

The deanery chairmen compose the diocesan committee.

The diocesan chairmen compose the national committee.

The National Chairman of Youth is appointed by the National

Board of Directors, as is the Field Secretary of Youth.

The Function of the Diocesan Chairman Is:

1. To aid in the organization of the Diocesan Youth Councils.

2. To interpret to the laity the program as approved by the

Ordinary.

3. To assist in carrying out a well-rounded program of activities

throughout the Diocese.

4. To aid in the development of Diocesan Youth Conferences and

Diocesan-wide Crusades.

5. To relay to district or deanery chairmen and others all source

material sent out by National and Diocesan Headquarters.

6. To report on the Youth work of the diocese to National and

Diocesan Councils at conventions and through letters.

The Function of the District or Deanery Chairman Is:

1. To aid in the organization of the district or deanery Youth

Council.

2. To assist the diocesan chairman in extending the Youth pro-

gram.

3. To encourage local efforts in organizing and programming.

4. To aid in the development of Deanery Youth meetings and inter-

parochial activities.

5. To relay materials received from national and diocesan to

parish chairmen or parish groups.

6. To report on District or Deanery Youth Councils to diocesan

chairmen and to local district or deanery Councils of Catholic

Women.



16 YOUTH LEADERS” HANDBOOK

The Function of the Parish Chairman Is:

1. To work in harmony with the pastor and his parish plans.

2. To aid in the organization of the Parish Youth Council.

3. To aid Youth groups within the parish—to “walk with Youth
and show the way.”

All chairmen, diocesan, district or deanery, and parish should make

a real study of the Youth set-up, programs and helps. All should know

the Youth Leader’s Handbook and have it at hand for ready reference;

All should take part in the Call to Youth radio listening-in groups

and use the pamphlets, “Call to Youth” for local leaders’ training;

All should be informed on the general background and policies of

the National Council of Catholic Women by attending National, Dio-
cesan, and Deanery meetings, reading CATHOLIC ACTION and the
Monthly Message regularly, and in giving strict attention to all letters

received from the National Chairman.

All chairmen in Dioceses, with Youth organized or unorganized,

need to work toward a completely set-up Youth Council, to make the

need for such programs apparent and to interpret Catholic thought to

the community.



SUGGESTIONS FOR YOUTH COMMITTEE

The National Council of Catholic Women has consistently empha-
sized its willingness to aid or assist in the development of parish,

deanery, and diocesan youth programs, agencies, organizations, and

conferences. It is definitely understood that this aid is given in keeping

with the wishes of the Ordinary of the diocese. In offering their ser-

vices on that basis, the Council recognizes the principle that youth

needs and wants capable adult guidance and direction.

The Youth Committee of the Diocesan Council should be alert to

the possibilities of rendering service. The Committee should become

thoroughly familiar with the youth situation in the individual diocese,

and positive steps should be taken to encourage youth to participate in

the activities of approved youth groups and organizations. Such pro-

cedure would enable the Women’s Council to assist youth in their ef-

forts to participate in Catholic Action.

From the organizational angle, the Youth Committee of the Coun-

cil must think in terms of parish and deanery and diocesan needs. Once

the Diocesan Committee is familiar with existing conditions—in other
words, if the Committee is familiar with what is being done—it will be
easier to prescribe what should be done.

Today in a number of dioceses, a Diocesan Director of Youth Acti-

vities has been appointed. To avoid overlapping and duplication of effort

as well as misunderstandings, the Youth Committee should discover the

nature and extent of the diocesan program as interpreted by the Dio-

cesan Director.

In those dioceses where the Diocesan Director of Youth Activities

maintains a central office or a Diocesan Youth Bureau, a Youth Com-

mittee can be of real assistance in the maintenance and extension of

this important diocesan center. In some dioceses, a general Diocesan

Committee on Youth Activities functions effectively. Ordinarily this

Diocesan Committee is composed of clergy, men, women, and youth

itself. Such an arrangement provides for representation on the part of

those interested in the development of a balanced program, and regular

meetings of this diocesan committee enables those concerned to arrive

at a mutual understanding regarding policy. The Youth Committee of

the Women’s Council can be of real assistance in the work of this

larger Diocesan Committee. In many dioceses the Ordinary is fre-

quently concerned with the development of a federation of existing

youth groups. The primary purpose of the federation is to unify youth’s

forces in order that they may become more active in the development of

the larger program of Catholic Action. Again, it may be pointed out

that in some dioceses the youth set-up provides for both a program and

a federation. This simply means that there is an adult-conceived pro-

gram of activities for youth, and a union or federation of youth.

Where the Ordinary is thinking in terms of unifying youth’s

forces, the diocesan authorities are disposed to establish Diocesan



18 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

Youth Councils. The Youth Council is not a new organization, but
rather a union or federation of existing, approved youth groups. In

every instance, care is taken to preserve the initiative and autonomy of

the youth groups so affiliated. Usually the Youth Council seeks to reach

the youth groups on the older age level. The Youth Council is organ-

ized on a parish, deanery, and diocesan basis—each section with its
own set of officers. It operates under the general direction of the Or-

dinary, and under the personal supervision of the Diocesan Director of

Youth Activities, with the Youth Committee of the Diocesan Council a

genuine assistance in the development of the Youth Council.

In other dioceses, an interparish, diocesan-wide youth program of

activities is developed under the auspices of the Church. In some dio-

ceses, the interparish program of youth activities is limited to the

larger cities of the diocese. In others no diocesan-wide, Church-spon-

sored program is attempted, but the program is left entirely to the ini-

tiative of local parochial groups. This policy prevents overlapping and

preserves the initiative and autonomy of existing youth associations.

In recent years, deanery and diocesan youth conferences have de-

veloped. The diocesan youth conference is an annual meeting; while

the deanery conference meets more frequently. Properly planned and

supervised, these conferences can become a very effective means of

training our young people, particularly those on the older age level.

Well-planned sectional and general meetings can and should pro-

vide an opportunity for young people to discuss mutual problems in the

light of the Church’s teaching. Such conferences provide ample outlet

for our own youth and they also serve effectively as a counter-attrac-

tion. It is a well-known fact that non-sectarian state, regional and

national conferences and meetings are attracting our young people in

increasing numbers.

The Youth Committee of the Women’s Council will find it to their

advantage to keep abreast of these trends and developments. The com-

mittee members should strive to use existing approved programs and

organizations to the fullest possibe extent before recommending the

development of any new programs and new organizations. It* is a sound

policy to proceed on this principle. Its application will strengthen and

improve existing youth groups, and new organizations will be added

only when there is a definite need of such a development.

Care must be taken to avoid the imposition of some program or

organizational set-up which lacks flexibility. To pyramid youth organi-

zations or to super-impose one organization upon another is faulty pro-

cedure. We know that the Church is not interested in the regimentation
of youth according to some hard and fast pattern. Nevertheless, plans

and procedures are frequently recommended which are sound in theory

but impossible in practice. The Youth Committee of the Diocesan

Council can render real service in assisting the diocesan authorities in

meeting this situation.



LEADERSHIP

His Excellency, the Most Reverend Amleto Giovanni Cicognani,

Apostolic Delegate to the United States, at the Salt Lake Regional

Youth Conference in May 1937 said:

“The Holy Father looks upon the young women and men who

publicly do battle for what is good, as his especially beloved help-

ers. It is a sacred, sweet duty, that of serving the Church and of

cooperating in the spread of the Faith and of the Christian life;

and it is a high honor to perform that good work in the fertile

rields of Catholic Action. By so doing you arrange yourselves

alongside your parish priests, your Bishops, and the Supreme Pon-

tiff himself. You become co-workers in the evangelization of souls

and of peoples.”

SPIRITUAL QUALIFICATIONS OF THE LAY LEADERS

Pius X laid down as essential, three qualities: a lively faith, morals
above reproach, and ardent zeal. That is to say, a life without blemish,

a profound piety, a proper knowledge of divine things, the fervor of

the apostolate, a filial devotion to the Pope and the Bishop, perfect

discipline.

The N.C.C.W. recommends that its Youth Chairmen (national, dio-

cesan, deanery, parish) and its activity leaders have the following

qualifications

:

1. True Catholic character.

2. Apostolic zeal.

3. Vital interest in Youth.

4. Belief in the N.C.C.W.

5. Willingness to study program.

6. Time to devote.

7. Responsibility.

To this must be added the usual qualifications of all leaders

—

ability, enthusiasm, resourcefulness, cooperative spirit, knowledge,

imagination, sympathy.

PRACTICAL RECOMMENDATIONS

1. Work in harmony with the Ordinary and clergy always.

2. Guide all activity on the basis of an apostolate.

3. A Youth Council—of, by and for Youth. Youth officers and
members should have every opportunity to develop leadership. The

leader should be a helping friend, not a dictator.

4. Have well balanced programs with members participating

—planning well in advance.
5. Help youth to keep interest through variety, newness, etc.

6. Keep adventure spirit alive—look for unusual, do a common
thing in an unusual way—use imagination.



20 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

LEADERSHIP TRAINING

Given a volunteer leader with the above qualifications it is essential

that further training be given not only at the beginning of the or-

ganization period, but continuously through the period of service. New
ideas and new “ways of doing things” are constantly being evolved and

every leader needs new inspiration and practical help frequently. It is

suggested that the following methods be used:

1. Attendance at National, Diocesan and Deanery conventions

of the National Council of Catholic Women. Special ses-

sions are usually planned for youth leaders at such meet-

ings.

2. Training courses given by N.C.C.W. staff in communities

inviting such intensive work.

3. Leaders’ conferences—usually advised once or twice a
year; Deanery conferences—four time annually and more
often for special training. These conferences should be

practical; should give leaders a chance to discuss their

problems and should be an aid in future planning.

4. Youth leaders’ training courses sponsored by other or-

ganizations, both Catholic and non-sectarian. Large na-

tional organizations give splendid training courses through-

out the country.

5. Youth Leader’s “Work-box”. See page 23 for suggestions

and biliography for general reading.

Several cities have used the following leaders’ training course out-

line, which is submitted as a sample. The leaders of the parishes within

one area met one evening a month for twelve months, in another they

combined the twelve meetings into four and met weekly for a month.

General Plan

The leader’s Council, with Chairman of Youth, should plan course to

fit local needs. A Chairman and assistant should lead discussions, and
specialized leaders should direct recreational “project periods”.

8:00 P. M.

Greeting—Arrange some informal activity, such as games, songs,
etc., so that all will be busy on arrival.

Prayer for Youth

20 minutes—Business of leaders, Council reports, plans
etc.

40 minutes—Discussion of Philosophy, Organization, and
Methods of Youth Organization, based on “Call to

Youth” series.

30 minutes—Recreation—based on projects.

9:30 P. M. Goodnight song—prayer.



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 21

Definite Plan

Discussions: Follow the series in “Call to Youth”.

Pages

1. Fundamentals and Organization of a

Youth Program 9-28

2. Leadership and Sponsorship 29-41

3. The Victory of Youth 42-47

4. Out-of-door Recreation 48-54

5. Play-days—Sports 55-60
6. Youth Needs Beauty—Books 61-73
7. Arts—Crafts—Dramatics ... 74-80
8. Vocational Guidance—Choosing a Career 81-86 & 93-99
9. Preparation for Marriage and Parenthood 87-106

10. International Youth Congress 107-112

11. Youth Looks at World Forces 113-119

12. A Challenge to Youth Leaders 120-125

Recreation—Suggested Projects
1. Song Fest

Have groups compile song books that may be used in groups.

2. Games

Teach minor sports and games suitable to playing space.

3. Dramatize “The Victory of Youth”.

Give to dramatic leaders well in advance.

4. Hike—camping trips
If held at night a treasure hunt in building can be substi-

tuted, but DO plan an out-door hike, too.

5. Play-nite

Plan as model for leaders’ use.

6. Panel—Catholic Books Today, or Art Exhibit with discussions.
Exhibit and catalogues helpful.

7. Playlets or stunts

Discuss dramatic tournament.

8. Craft demonstration

Let each leader make some one thing.

9. An “At Home” Party
Plan as if in a home—table games, refreshments, etc.

10. National Folk Dances.

Friendship of nations.

11. Hobby show

Each leader gives her hobby.

12. A joyous good time in farewell.

Essentials for Training Course

1. Youth Leaders’ Handbook .25

2. The Call to Youth, 1937-38-39 25 ea.



22 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

Other Aids

See Bibliographies in above two books.

Consult local libraries—perhaps librarian will arrange a special
shelf for you.

Ask the help of Catholic College and High School libraries.

The National Council of Catholic Women is equipped to aid in
leadership training as follows:

1. The National Board, the National Youth Chairman and the

national staff stand ready to help through talks, conferences

and practical suggestions based on wide experience throughout

the country.

2. The services of the Field Secretary of Youth are available to

dioceses wishing to plan such meetings throughout the dio-

cese. These intensive courses usually last two or three days

with the leaders coming to a central diocesan or deanery city

for this time.

3. Correspondence service—planning courses, conferences, etc.
4. Publications.

5. The annual CALL TO YOUTH radio broadcasts, given in co-
operation with the National Broadcasting Company present a

series of seventeen talks on youth leadership during February,

March, April and May of each year.



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 23

YOUTH LEADERS’ WORK-BOX

The best leader is the prepared leader

Every work, every hobby needs its own equipment—some helps that
are distinctive to it and made especially for it. To have equipment at

hand when needed is essential to a smooth moving program.

Every leader needs her work-box or her “workbag”—Materials to
which she can refer for help and inspiration. No Youth Leader can

know all the things in which her group will be interested, but she CAN
KNOW where to find information. Your National Council is eager
always to serve you and to aid you with your groups, if you will write

Headquarters; but for your own self-reliance we suggest the following

for your work-box:

1.

N.C.C.W. Publications

Youth Leader’s Handbook 25c

Youth Today and Tomorrow 1 10c

Youth Leadership and Catholic Action 10c

Call to Youth—1937 25c
Call to Youth—1938 25c

Call to Youth—1939 25c
General Program for Leisure Time Activities 5c

Culture for Young People 5c

Youth folder free

Handcraft Note-book $ 1.00

2. N.C.W.C. and N.C.C.W. Leaflets and Study Club Outlines.

3. A good general recreation game book

See Bibliography in handbook, or use

The Handbook for Recreation Leaders—Publication No. 231
20c Children’s Bureau, U.S. Dept, of Labor, Washington,

D.C.

4. An activity file . . . Records, games, parties, plays, etc. Some

leaders use loose-leaf books, others find ’ x 5 card files most

practical. Get the habit of clipping clever ideas from papers,

magazines, etc., and have them ready for quick reference.

5. Some supplies—the more the better, but have all usable; Pen-
cils, paper, pins, string, chalk, etc., etc., etc. Easily inflated

ball or balloons games, contest materials, etc.

6. Take advantage of government and other helps that may be

had for the asking. See Bibliography.

7. A song collection . . . Gather together those your groups like
best—Hymns, Youth songs, folk songs, etc.

8. Models of hand craft and other projects will help to interest the

groups. Seeing the “Thing” always aids.



24 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

TRAINING VIA RADIO

The radio offers one of the best means possible for leadership

training”, the dissemination of general Catholic Youth policies and real

publicity. The National Youth Committee in cooperation with the Na-

tional Broadcastnig Company uses this avenue of a national net-work

four months each year with the CALL TO YOUTH broadcasts.

Local stations welcome programs, presented by local people on sub-

jects of local interest. Certainly Youth is always a major concern of

many people, so time on the air can usually be arranged. What better

way could be found to reach a large number of people. Catholic and

non-Catholic!

It is suggested that youth groups make far better use of the radio.

Perhaps within the groups special talent will be discovered and de-

veloped. Radio programming, radio script writing and radio announcing

can well be the work of youth Councils in local communities.

Suggestive programs:

1. Opening music-orchestra or song. The Catholic Action songs,

“Christus Vincit”, “Christ the King” are good for theme

music to be carried through a series.

2. A playlet Depicting work of Youth group.

A talk Program, policies, etc.
A Forum Discussion of Social action program
A Panel From a Youth Conference

3. Closing music or song.

Suggestive helps

:

1. The Call to Youth pamphlets. Addresses given in 1937, 1938, and
1939 can well be modified to meet local needs. The dialogues
and discussions present materials for skits, forums, panels
and conferences.

2. Copies of script used in other communities. Some are available
at the N.C.C.W. headquarters. Youth Councils can aid in
building the script library by sending in materials success-
fully used.

3. Local managers and staff will often aid in planning and pre-
sentation.

4. Many colleges and universities now have radio producing de-
partments usually called Radio work Shops. Students of these
schools are happy to help in order to get practical experience.

5. Educational Radio Script Exchange. U. S. Department of The
Interior, Office of Education, Washington, D. C. General

secular script.



PLANS FOR PROGRAMMING

Any definite plans for the formulation of a program submitted by
the National, Diocesan and Deanery Councils must necessarily be of a

suggestive nature only. It is well realized that no one unit will wish to

adopt the program in full, but that a balanced cycle of activities will

be conducted through the year.

Certainly the objective in all Youth work is the development of

well rounded personalities. As our late Holy Father, Pope Pius XI,

stressed in his Encyclical, The Christian Education of Youth: “Complete

education takes in the whole aggregate of human life, physical and spir-

itual, intellectual and moral, individual, domestic and social. The true

Christian does not renounce the activities of this life; he does not stunt

natural faculties; but he developes and perfects them by coordinating

them with the supernatural. Thus he ennobles what is merel natural in

life and secures for it new strength in the material and temporal order,

no less than in the spiritual and eternal.”

This then, is the foundation for a balanced program, a program

that will be so varied that it will reach all types of young people, what-

ever their interest, whatever their organization. These activities have

been classified into five groups—religious, spiritual, cultural, vocational
and service. Surely no division is to be considered as complete for each

must permeate the other. A youth may be cultured on the gym floor as
well as in the personality class and young people may carry “Christ

with them” as effectively on the dance floor as in a religious discussion

class.

Under spiritual activities we have listed discussion clubs, spiritual

crusades, group prayers, retreats, days of recollection, and the never

old study of the liturgy, all leading to an understanding of a true

Christian personality, an appreciation of real values and a measuring

rod of faith with which to judge the theories and the standards of the

modern world.

Our cultural activities include our dramatics, choral groups, art

classes, handcrafts, book clubs, poetry classes, and trips to places of in-

terest, such as art centers, libraries, concerts, craft exhibits and plays.

It is to be remembered always that the art that has lived through the

ages is of Christian origin, the expression of the artist’s love of the

true Christ and His teachings. Surely when Youth has been given the

opportunity to know the best of our culture, the crude and vulgar will

have no appeal, so it is through our cultural activities that we may give

to youth a pride in his sacred heritage, a taste of genuine beauty that

all Youth seeks eternally.

In a well-balanced program vocational interest should have a

ranking place. Through leisure many people have been guided in their

life work; many an avocation has become a vocation; many a hobby a

career. All Youth need and welcome some direction in better fitting

themselves for their life work, whether in the home, the office, the



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK26

store, or the professions. Then, too, in the vocational field greater

attention should be given to one of the most important vocations, that

of marriage and parenthood. Discussion clubs of Christian standards of

family life are vital today, if our youth is to think wisely and con-

structively for the good of society as well as for individual happiness.

In addition, practical experience in home arts, cooking, sewing,

home nursing, first aid, interior decorating and housekeeping are neces-

sary and popular where given. Certainly this interest is to be fostered

if we wish, ultimately, to “Keep First Things First.”

Since youth is a time of joy and action, recreational activities must

play a large part in our leisure time planning. Sports offer to girls, as

to boys, the best all-round recreation—fun, exercise, health and a chal-
lenge to play tKe game. But sports are not our only recreation for

many youth groups carry on happily year in and year out without

sports. There are hiking and camping for the out-of-doors, dancing

parties, sleigh rides or beach parties, roasts and picnics always, to say

nothing of play days, song fests and community nights. We need a
sane balance in our recreational as well as in our general program, and

whatever the activity, with it must go the great joy of recreation, of

play, of real pleasure.

Since the final satisfaction of all education, of all experience, is to

be found in the service of others, we must give to youth the oppor-

tunity to know and develop this spirit of helpfulness, of Christian

Charity. First there is service within their own group, as officers, com-

mittee chairmen, and effective co-workers, each contributing of her

talents to the whole.

The spirit of helpfulness may be further accented through service

projects. In addition to the traditional Christmas and Thanksgiving

baskets to those in need, may we not add the thoughtfulness that will

prompt a Valentine basket, a Fourth of July picnic, a Labor Day ex-

cursion; besides the accepted service of reading to children in the hos-

pitals, may we not add the greater consideration of entertainment for

the shut-ins at home
;

• for the regular apprentice training of younger

groups, may we not add the Crusading for Christ, that will bring Chris-

tian thought and culture to the world at large? Youth, working with

clever leaders, will find new ways always to be of service, of carrying

the banner of Christ onward.

But all of this cannot be done in a week, a month, or perhaps within

a season, but by careful consideration we can bring the whole cycle of a

well-balanced program to each group within the year of activities. This

necessitates advance planning, of course, so we urge that every group

have an annual program, a map that will show the way, but flexible

enough to permit changes should need or opportunity demand. Every

youth leader should sit in round table with her youth officers early in

each year, with them learn the preferences of the group and arrange,

meeting by meeting, a well-rounded schedule of religious, cultural,

vocational, recreational, and service activities.



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 27

Group Prayers

Assisting at Church

Missions

Apologetics

Retreats

Corporate Communion

Religious

Communion Breakfasts

Days of Recollection

“Our Lady” Days

Field Mass

Study of the Liturgy

Confratenity of Christian Doctrine

Study Clubs

Discussion Groups

Libraries

Reading Groups

Music

Dramatics

Cultural

Art

Radio Programming

Museums—Collections
Trips—Tours
Radio Script-writing

Vocational Conferences

Vocational Guidance

Vocational

Home Economics
Handcrafts

Career Discussions Home Arts
Preparation for Parenthood Commercial Training

Preparation for Home-Making

Recreational

Hobby Clubs

Sports—Games
Hiking—Camping
Swimming

Play Days

Dancing

Picnics

Parties

Community Nights

Catholic Action

Crusading for Christ

Youth Leadership

Service

Social Service

Civic Cooperation



CRUSADING FOR CHRIST

The requisites for Catholic Action have been given—PRAYER,
STUDY, ACTION—Prayer that we may be worthy to serve in His
Name; Study that we may know how, and Action that we may do. The

following Crusades based on these essentials will suggest many positive

programs that youth may initiate.

September

Devotion —Christ the King
Crusade —Catholic Action—Every Catholic young person active

in the Parish Youth Council.

Study —The National Catholic Welfare Conference
The National Council of Catholic Women
The National Catholic Youth Council

October

Devotion —The Rosary
Crusade —Every young person carrying a Rosary always
Study —The Mysteries of the Rosary

November

Devotion —All Saints—All Souls
Crusade —Frequent Mass for the Poor Souls
Study —The Communion of Saints

We are all one in Christ—all members of His Mysti-
cal Body.

Lives of Saints—Quotations for roll call.
December

Devotion —The Infant Jesus
Crusade —A Crib in every home—Out-of-door Cribs—Catholic

Christmas Cards

Study —The Nativity
Christmas Cribs

January

Devotion —Holy Name of Jesus
Crusade —“Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord, thy God,

in vain.”

Study —The Way of Life
February

Devotion —The Holy Family
Crusade —Christian standards of marriage, home—via press,

radio, cinema, and magazines

Study —See section on Parent-Education
Catholic Press Month.



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 29

March

Devotion —St. Joseph, Patron of the Universal Church
Crusade —Catholic Action—the united “participation of the laity

in the apostolate of the hierarchy.”

Study —Encyclical on Catholic Action
See section on Catholic Action

April

Devotion —Our Lady of Good Counsel
Crusade —Every women’s organization an active affiliate of the

N.C.C.W.

Study —N.C.C.W. Youth program
May

Devotion —Our Lady’s Month
Crusade —A statue or picture of Our Lady in every girl’s room.
Study —Madonnas

June

Devotion —The Sacred Heart
Crusade —Visits to the Blessed Sacrament; when passing a

Church, girls bow their heads—boys lift their hats.
Study —The Real Presence

July

Devotion —The Boy Christ
Crusade —Cooperation with the Confraternity of Christian Doc-

trine; Playgrounds, etc.

Study —Expressing Christ in our lives.
August

Devotion —St. Joan of Arc
Crusade —“For God and Country”
Study —Catholic Citizenship.



LIVING THE LITURGY

“ORA ET LABORA”

Our Holy Pontiff strongly recommended to the laity Active Par-

ticipation in hierarchial worship, that is the liturgical movement, and in

the Hierarchial apostolate, that is Catholic Action.

Youth strives to understand the spirit, the text, and the action of

the Liturgy of the Church; to assist it and to live the functions of

Divine Worship with all possible fervor.

Since the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is the center of all liturgical

life, every leader should know:

I. That the Liturgy is not the study of something, but that it is

the acting out of something, which may be learned by study.

II. That external things like the study of vestments, vessels, the

construction of an altar, the parts of a Church building have

little to do with the Liturgy, except in an indirect way.

III. About the Leaflet Missal, but should also know that the use of

it is not an end but only a good beginning.

IV. That the possession and use of a missal is important.

The main purpose, of course, is the spirit, rather than liturgical forms

—

the spirit of the love of God and of affection for Holy Church. Where

such spirit exists, the number of religious exercises attended is not

important. Too much must not be required of young people. The par-

ticipation in liturgical practices must be joyful, and not forced. The

Christian Youth does not withdraw herself from the home or social life,

but lives and acts in the world joyously.

Where the interest of the Youth can integrate into the family life

something of liturgy, an increase of blessings results. Many acts of

family liturgy are performed un-seen and un-noticed—in the minds of
the family members. All can be in accord with the concept that “world-

liness is in conformity with Christian morals”—and that it is necessary
to serve the Lord in the world and to fulfill the duties of one’s state.

To be religious in the sense of the Church means to be glad and

joyful. Over and over again the Church repeats in her litugry:

“Juvenes et virgines, senes cum “Old and young, sons and daughters

junioribus laudent nomen Domini” praise the name of the Lord”.

(Psalm 148)

Bibliography:

“The Mass”—Outline for Study Club—N.C.C.W.
“Ceremonies of the Mass”, by C.C. Smyth—Paulist Press, 401 W.

59th St., N.Y.C. 5c

“The Leaflet Missal”—The Liturgical Press, $1.00 per year
“The Mass”, Dunney—Macmillan, New York City $2.50



FACTORS RELATED TO ECONOMIC LIFE

“Social Justice demands: Wages and hours which will insure con-

tinuous employment, a decent livelihood and adequate security for all

workers; . . . Social Justice requires all the economic classes to pro-

mote the common good by a reasonable amount of honest labor and ser-

vice.”

I Social Justice

What is Social Justice ? How can you contribute to it ?
Reference: Organized Social Justice

II Catholic Teaching and the General Labor Problem

1. What is meant by a “Living Wage?” A Family Wage?
Steady Employment Wage?

2. Do wages of labor in America provide a living wage?

3. What is the Catholic teaching on wages?

References
:

Quadragesimo Anno

Rerum Novarum

Organized Social Justice

III Social and Labor Legislation

1. Labor Laws for Women

Why regulate hours and establish minimum wages?
What legislation has been accomplished along this
line? Does your state have hour and wage legisla-

tion?

References: Bui. No. 155 Womens Bureau

U.S. Dept, of Labor (Free)

Women in Industry—S.A. Series No. 14
Wages and Hours of American Labor
Social Action Series No. 3

2. What is the Fair Labor Standards Act ?
Who is affected by it ? Does it protect children ?

3. Discuss the Social Security Law.

What are its provisions ? Is it consonant with Catholic
teaching ?

References: A Ceiling for Hours, A Floor for Wages
And A Break for Children—U. S. Dept. Lab.
Bishops Program of Soc. Reconstruction

Information Service, Bui. No. 1

Social Security Board (Free)

4. What is the Equal Rights Amendment?

Why did the N.C.C.W. and other National Organiza-
tions oppose it?

References: Equal Rights Amendment and Social Legis.



32 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

What Laws Must We Have?—S.A. Series
No. 4

5. Justify Social Legislation on basis of (/)atholic teaching.

IV The American Labor Movement

1. Give the early history of the Labor Movement.

2. What can you say about the “rigjit of workers to or-

ganize?”

References: Organized Social Justice

Wages and Hours of Amer. Labor

Human Relations in Industry (C.C.I.P.)

V Democracy as Opposed to Socialism, Communism, Fascism

W hat is Socialism ? Communism ? Fascism ?

How can we preserve Democracy? What is our responsibility
to this end?

References: Towards Social Justice

Encyclical—Atheistic Communism
Quadragesimo Anno

Relation of Religion to Communism,

Fascism and Democracy



THE PEACE OF CHRIST IN THE KINGDOM OF
CHRIST

All men are brothers, united in the Fatherhood of God and the re-

demption of Christ. We each owe a duty of justice and charity to every
other individual—Americans, Germans, Frenchmen, Italians, Japanese,
Chinese, Jews, Gentiles—White, black, red, and yellow. States should
have the same just and friendly relations among themselves as indi-

viduals, families and other groups.

1. What are the general duties of justice and charity between in-

dividuals, and states ? How does patriotism fit into the picture ? ( See,
International Ethics,; Patriotism, Nationalism, the Brotherhood of Man;

The Christian Way to Peace, “A Primer of Peace”) (The youth leader
can be of great assistance in helping to simplify and interpret according

to the age level, the various ideas found in the references).

2. What has the Church done throughout the ages to make this

idea of Christian brotherhood live in international and racial relations ?

(See “The Catholic Church and Peace Efforts,” “The Church and the

Jews,” “A Papal Peace Mosaic,” “Peace Statements of Recent Popes.”).

3. When the brotherhood of man in the family of nations is disre-

garded and nations do not treat each other justly and with charity war

comes. What are the injustices which bring on wars? (See “Causes of

War” “Tariffs and the United States,” “Europe and the United States,”

“A Primer of Peace”)

4. What are some of the things nations, and the United States

particularly, can and must do to live justly and charitably together in

peace and prosperity? (See International Ethics, Arbitration and the

World Court, International Economic Life)

5. What about our neighbors to the South, in Latin America?

What can we do to increase friendly relations ? What have been the

causes of our troubles in the past and how can they be overcome? (See,

“Latin America and the United States” and “An Introduction to Mex-

ico”)

II

Some suggestions for action:

1. Include in young peoples’ clubs all nationalities and races. Plan

study and discussion of the countries etc., represented.

2. Correspondence and exchange of small gifts, with young people

of other countries.

3. Formation of study groups, clubs, forums, etc.

4. Cooperation with the regional Catholic Student Peace Federa-

tions, and other youth groups interested in promoting ideals of Chris-

tian peace.

5. Distribution of Catholic literature on peace principles and world

questions.

6. Presentation of peace plays, dialogues, etc.

N.B. All pamphlet references available at N.C.W.C.



YOUTH AND CIVIC LIFE
I. Some questions for study and discussion.

1. Twenty-one is voting age. Are our young people over twenty-

one voting honestly and intelligently? Do our young people under

twenty-one realize the duty and the privilege of participation in the

government of this country?

2. Do they know how their city, state and national governments

are run?

3. Do they know the elements of good citizenship ? What are their

rights and duties?

4. Are they able to point out the advantages of our democratic

form of government over Fascism and Communism, and can they dis-

cern the enchoarchment of un-American sentiments and practices, e.g.,

Anti-Semitism, and other forms of intolerance?

5. Do they know local civic conditions which should be corrected

and are they active in cooperation with local programs for civic better-

ment?

II. Some local problems with which young peoples’ organizations might

concern themselves.

1. Non-partisan group discussion of political persons and policies

in reference to the needs of the community and good government.

2. City beautification: Inculcation of civic pride and respect for

property.

3. Provision of adequate public recreation facilities.

4. Local charity and welfare organizations.

5. Interest in public education on housing facilities, slum observ-

ance and low cost housing.

6. Americanization classes for the foreign-born.

7. Study groups, forums, debates, on civic and governmental prob-

lems.

8. Distribution of civic literature.

Ill References

1. Books:

“Economics and the Community” Lapp. (Century)

“The American Citizen” Lapp (Macmillan)

“The Church and the Country Community” O’Hara (Macmillan)

“The Catholic Church and the Citizen” Ryan (Macmillan)

2. Pamphlets:

“Civics Catechism on the Rights and Duties of Citizens”

N.C.W.C.

“Fundamentals of Citizenship” N.C.W.C.

“Citizen, Church and State” N.C.W.C.

“American Democracy vs. Racism, Communism” N.C.W.C.

“Making Democracy Work.” N.C.W.C.

“A Civic Mosaic” N.C.W.C.



VOCATIONAL GUIDANCE

Vocational guidance, the guiding of Youth into the walk of life best

suited to his preferences and abilities, is a real professional job, but

youth leaders everywhere are often asked to help, and through coop-

eration with established agencies, can do much to aid young people in

their choice of work.

It is essential first that youth leaders learn of the facilities for

guidance offered by the schools and community. Then they can play

a large part in helping the young person to carry out the recommenda-

tions.

We suggest that throughout the year talks be given by successful
leaders in the various fields, being certain always:

1. That the speaker have a Catholic philosophy of life as ex-

pressed by the profession.

2. That the speaker give a true picture of the vocation—its liabil-
ities as well as its assets.

3. That the young people understana

a. Personal qualifications necessary.

b. Training needed.

c. Schools giving training.

d. Chances for placement.

e. Chances for advancement.

f. Conditions of work—possible salaries, etc.
4. That a discussion period be arranged after each talk so that

personal questions may be answered.

5. That books on the professions and trades be available.

6. That through leisure time activities, the young people be given

a chance to test their preferences.

Since homemaking is the primary career of women, and of funda-

mental interest to all, it should play a large part in our Vocational

Guidance planning. It is here, too, that Catholic principles of marriage,

home life, and parenthood may well be stressed.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Youth Today and Tomorrow Youth Institute

National Council of Catholic Women—10c
The Call to Youth, 1937-38-39 Radio Broadcasts

National Council Catholic Women—25c
The Guidance of Youth Rev. Daniel A. Lord, S.J.

Queen's Work, 3742 W. Pine Blvd., St. Louis—$1.50
Career Leaflets Dr. Walter J. Greenleaf

18 leaflets on the opportunities of leading professions

Office of Education, U. S. Dept, of Interior, Washington, D. C.

The Adolescent—His Development and His Major Problems
Henry C. Schumacher M.D.

N.C.W.C.—25c



A CAREER CONFERENCE

Why not a career conference in every community to acquaint our
young people with the various vocations? The points listed on the

previous page should be kept in mind, of course, so that a true picture

of training necessary, opportunity for job and possibilities for advance-

ment are well explained.

CAREER CONFERENCE

GIRLS

DATE-

PLACE—

PURPOSE: To give to girls and young women information which will
help them in planning their futures.

To develop a sympathetic understanding of workers in

various occupations.

FOR WHOM INTENDED:
Girls and young women who are interested in informing

themselves about the problems of vocational choice.

Parents, girl leaders and others who wish to increase

their helpfulness in dealing with youth.

Those who wish to observe the career conference method

of rendering service in the field of guidance.

NATURE OF CONFERENCE:

General meeting: Large hall (time)

Musical numbers

Address “Women in the Home” (name speaker)

Address “Women Outside the Home” (speaker)

Section meetings:

Religious Vocations

Advertising

Beauty Culture

Business occupations

Dental Hygiene

Dietetics

Home Economics
Interior Decorating

Laboratory technician

Law

Small class rooms (time and place)

Library Science

Medical

Nursing

Radio presentation

Radio writing

Salesmanship

Social Work
Teaching

Writing

Names of discussants for each vocation should be given and other

fields added as local needs demand.

Used with permission. To be reprinted permission is necessary from

the Milwaukee CYO, 225 Michigan Street, Milwaukee.



PARENT EDUCATION

I. Aims of Program

1. To develop in Catholic youth an interest in and enthusiasm for

the Catholic ideal, marriage and parenthood.

2. To instill in them a deep respect for true Christian marriage

by calling to their attention such ideals as the following:

a. The divine institution of marriage

b. Its sacramental nature

c. The fact that Christian marriage is a symbol of the

union of Christ and His Church

d. Its prime purpose

e. The true concept of Christian womanhood

3. To help them toward successful Christian marriage:

a. By training in character

b. By bringing to their attention desirable qualifications in

life-partner

c. By providing them with opportunities to meet, and get

acquainted with, suitable prospective partners.

4. To interest them in the knowledge and promotion of economic

and social conditions that are essential to happy and wholesome

family life.

5. To prepare them for their future tasks of child care and train-

ing in their own homes:

a. Religious training

b. Social training

c. Physical training

d. Mental training

e. Emotional training.

II. Practical Projects

1. Studying and disseminating the principles of Christian mar-

riage, particularly as set forth in the Encyclical of Pius XI on

Christian Marriage, and advancing the cause of parent educa-

tion as advocated in the Encyclical on the Christian Education

of Youth.

2. Disseminating literature on marriage and the family and on

parent education.

3. Fostering the establishment of the Association of the Holy

Family, an organization essentially religious in character,

urged upon the Universal Church by Leo XIII.



38 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

4. Aiding in the development of study clubs dealing with family

topics, and encouraging individual reading and study of family

literature in the home.

5. Promoting the fitting celebration of the Feast of the Holy

Family.

III. Publications

Encyclical on Marriage

Christian Marriage Dr. Edgar Schmiedeler, O.S.B.

N.C.W.C. 25c

Marriage and Parenthood (latest revision)

Rev. Thomas J. Gerrad

Joseph F. Wagner, Inc., 53 Park PI., New York City—$1.00
An Introductory Study of the Family

Rev. Edgar Schmiedeler, O.S.B.

D. Appleton-Century Co., 35 West 32nd St.,

New York City—$2.50
Outlines of Religion, Vol. IV Rev. John M. Cooper, Ph.D.

Catholic Education Press, 1326 Quincy St., N.E.,

Washington, D.C.

The Popular booklets on marriage of the Paulist Press, 401

West 59th Street, New York City, of Our Sunday Visitor Press,
Huntington, Indiana, and Family Life Section, N.C.W.C.

The Catholic Family Monthly, organ of the Catholic Conference

on Family Life.

Subscription, $1.00 a year.

Your Partner in Marriage Rev. Daniel A. Lord, S.J.

Other publications of Queen’s Work.

Queen’s Work—St. Louis, Missouri.
You and Your Children Rev. Paul H. Furfey, Ph.D.

Benziger Brothers—New York.
Parent and Child Schmiedeler and McDonough

D. Appleton-Century Co.—New York
Marriage Most Rev. Franz Von Streng

Benziger Brothers,—$1.50



HOME ARTS

INTERIOR DECORATING

1. If possible, find an expert interior decorator who will direct the

course.

2. Invite an architect to explain “good housing”.

3. Stores will cooperate in the study of furnishings. Ask the head

of the curtain department of a leading store to discuss curtain

materials, making, hanging, care, etc. The same for someone

from the following departments:

a. Furniture f. Linen

b. Rugs g- Paint—paper
c. China h. Accessories

d. Silver i. Cooking utensils

e. Pictures j. Labor-saving equipment

4. Have discussions on articles on Decoration taken from maga-

zines. Commercial silver, linen, china, etc. firms supply in-

structive pamphlets that may be secured on request.

5. Visit model homes open for inspection, and model rooms in

stores, in course of lessons.

ETIQUETTE

1. Practice in all activities.

2. Have a woman, socially well-known, to give a talk.

3. Promote discussions

—

Introductions

Notes—invitations, “Thank you”, etc.
Table manners

Courtesies in the home, travel, etc.

Group needs.

4. Vary programs for experience:

Teas Luncheon

Buffet-suppers “Snacks”

Dinners

5. Use magazines and books on subject—Posters often help.

COOKING

1. If parish facilities have equipment, ask Home Economic teacher
to volunteer for fundamental course. The girls should divide

expense of supplies, or, if necessary, bring them from home.

2. Hostesses classes are popular.

a. Prepare and serve a luncheon, dinner, bridge refreshments,

buffet supper, etc.

b. Service, china, linen, silver, etc., studied.



40 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

3. Make recipe books—recipes to be tried at home.
4. Where possible, take advantage of cooking schools, etc., often

given in cities.

DRESSMAKING

1. As in cooking, secure Sewing teacher, if possible, to give gen-

eral course.

2. Stylists from stores will gladly give talks on clothes, often

demonstrating with style shows. It should help each girl to

appear her best.

3. Sewing machine stores often give free instructions in the use

of the machines, etc.

4. A cosmetician may be secured to give instructions on personal
appearance.

5. Clever and different finishings—accessories.

BUDGETING

1. Secure aid from Home Economics Leaders.

2. County agents and 4-H Leaders are helpful.

3. Secure volunteer services of Bookkeeping teacher to teach and

arrange home and personal budgets.

HOME NURSING—FIRST AID—CHILD CARE

1. The American Red Cross has a trained staff teaching these sub-

jects throughout the country. Following the standard and ad-

vanced courses, certificates are issued to those successfully

completing the course. (Apply to your local Red Cross Office).

2. Local Catholic hospitals will cooperate in supplying instructions

or individual nurses will volunteer their services.

3. Volunteer service to hospitals, nurseries, playgrounds, may

follow courses, if opportunity offers.

SUGGESTED REFERENCES

.Current Women’s Magazines—e.g. The Good Housekeeping.
The Blue Book of Etiquette Emily Post

Funk & Wagnalls, 354 4th Ave., New York City, $4.00

The American Red Cross Handbooks

1... Am. Red Cross, 17th and D Sts., N.W., Washington, D.C.

The Boston Cook Book Fanny Farmer

Little Brown & Co. 34 Beacon St., Boston, Mass; $2.50

Personality of a House Emily Post

Funk & Wagnalls, New York City; $4.00

Home Makers Educational Service, Inc
Freeport, New York

Home Economics Mary L. Callahan & Sister Mechtilde Schaaf

N.C.W.C.—25c



GROUP SONGS

“The essential thing about singing is the delight of it—Its best and
most lasting motive is love of beauty.”—Zanzig.

Singing, commonly regarded as an unsurpassed aid in cultivating

group spirit, should play a large part in a youth program. “Singing

Clubs” are our best always, for song

Creates an atmosphere;

Unites personalities in a common expression;

Interprets a message;

Lifts up the spirit.

1. Our lovely Catholic music should be the heritage of every youth

—The Mass service and our hymns will never be forgotten if
well learned in youth.

2. Our Catholic Action songs give a real crusading spirit—Sing
them often as theme songs

—
“Christus Vincit” and Catholic

Action Song.

3. National Anthems and patriotic songs build a pride in our

citizenship and our American institutions that is needed in the

world to-day.

4. Folk Songs that are beautiful and in good taste lend themselves

so well to community singing. Avoid those that may have
undesirable associations for some. However it is necessary to

start with people where they are and lead up to higher standard

of taste through conscious direction by leader. Surely Ameri-

can Youth should know the music traditions as expressed in

Sea Chanteys Mountain hymns

Cowboy Songs Hill-billy songs

Negro spirituals

5. Fun songs, rounds and even good modern music have their place

in our good times. Also they serve as a good starting place for

our better music.

6. Capitalize on local interests, historical incidents, etc. for de-

veloping creative powers in youth expressed in song. Original

songs of clubs mean much and should be encouraged at all

times.

7. Try to secure the cooperation of music experts in selection

—

Librarians of Music Departments;

Recreation Association;

Girl Scouts

Camping programs especially desirable.



42 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

REFERENCES;

Hymnals

Christus Vincit International Catholic Youth Song

N.C.C.W.

Catholic Action Song Rev. Daniel A. Lord, S.J.

Queen’s Work, 3742 West Pine Blvd., St. Louis 25c

Hail Christ Our King Edward Hemmer
Edward Hemmer Publishing Co., 139 W. 47th St., N.Y.C. 25c

Legion-airs Frank E. P. Lee and Orean Smith

Leo Feist, Inc., 1629 Broadway, N. Y. C. $1.00

Community,and Assembly Singing A. D. Zanzig

M. Witmark & Sons; New York 50c

Twenty Points for Song Leaders Kenneth S. Clark

National Recreation Association, New York City—free
Twice 55 Community Songs—Brown Book
C. C. Brichard & Co., 221 Columbus Ave., Boston, Mass.—$1.50



THE ROLE OF DRAMATICS

Every young person likes to act. It is as natural for youth as for a

child to dress up and “be someone else”. This instinctive desire, plus the

real joy that comes from “being in a play” gives dramatics a very real

place in our youth program. Wise leaders will develop this cultural

activity for the development and happiness of their groups.

Fortunately, Catholic dramatic activity in the United States is

being coordinated and thereby rendered more artistic, purposeful and

significant in the current movement to establish a real American Cath-

olic theater tradition. This movement is being crystalized in the form

of the Catholic Theater Conference, which, among other things, is

designed to serve as a service agency for Catholic drama groups

throughout the country.

Founded to give direction, stimulation and impetus to Catholic

stage effort, the Conference is proving to be an invaluable source of in-

spiration and service to its members, which are mainly parish, school,

college and Little Theater organizations from coast to coast. Youth

groups will profit a hundred fold by availing themselves of the oppor-

tunities for assistance in their dramatic projects to be found in the

Catholic Theater Conference.

As an instrument of apologetics, the stage takes on new life today,

but in developing our dramatic programs care should be taken:

1. That the best possible direction is secured so that our youth

may profit by worthwhile instruction.

2. That plays worthy of our efforts are chosen. Certain we must

be that the philosophy is in harmony with Christ’s teaching and

that the artistic side is not neglected.

3. That all members of the group are given a chance to act. To

build up a master dramatic group is as fatal in its way as a

master athletic team. Rather the select group should be the

out-growth of a general dramatic activity fostered through one-

act plays, pageants, etc., that give each member a chance.

Certainly the leads should not always be given to the same

people, for young people capable of taking leading parts need

to learn to share the honors with others and to do the lesser

part at times.

4. That we open to our youth the field of allied arts—set design,
costuming, lighting, make-up, publicity, etc., and that young

people contributing to the success of the play through these

channels be given the same recognition that goes to the

players.

5. That we foster a play reading committee in each Dramatic

Club for the reading of plays both for their own enjoyment and

education. Thus will be assured a better selection for opr

groups,



44 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

6. That we aid in the development of better Catholic plays by a

willingness to pay fair royalties, so that our playwrights may
live by their labors.

7. That we assure the development of taste and appreciation for

the fine arts, of an ability to contribute, creatively and actively,

to the arts, of providing the individual with the mental and

emotional facilities for deriving the maximum amount of
pleasure for the contemplation of art.

In sum, a Catholic dramatic program has three objectives—recrea-
tional, disciplinary, cultural. It is particularized by the Catholic atti-

tude and philosophy of life and by functioning under Catholic auspices

and thus pointed' toward the ultimate objective: Catholic Action

through positive apostolic activity.

DRAMATIC BIBLIOGRAPHY

Catholic Theatre Conference

Rev. Brendan Larnew, O.P., Secretary-Treasurer

Catholic University of America,

Washington, D.C.

1. Blackfriars Guild 4.

2115 Fifteenth Street, N.W.

Washington, D. C.

2. Catholic Theatre

Official Organ, Catholic Theatre 5.

Conference

Washington, D.C.

3. Catholic Dramatic movement
610 Michigan Street 6.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Sodality Plays, The Queen’s

Work

3742, West Pine Boulevard,

St. Louis, Mo.

The Catholic Theatre Move-

ment

460 Madison Avenue,

New York City

Parish Activities Service

Effingham, Illinois.

General Aids:

Community Drama National Recreation Assn.

The Century Company, New York City

Good Times for All Times Nina B. Lamkin

Samuel French, Inc., 25 West 45th St., New York City—$2.50
Producing Amateur Dramatics Helen Ferris

E. P. Dutton, 286 Fourth Avenue, New York City

New Plays for Girls and Women 15 one-act plays
Samuel French, Inc.—$2.50

The Work of the Little Theatres Clarence A. Perry

Russel Sage Foundation, New York City

How to Produce a Play Jack Stuart Knapp
National Recreation Ass’n, 315 Fourth Ave., New York City



HANDCRAFTS

“Doing Handcrafts” as one of the activities of a Youth Program

partially meets the present social demands of increased leisure while

the force of such a unit is largely dependent upon the type of program

evolved. To be well organized this program must have a leader who

understands the underlying principles of creative doing that the pro-

gram when developed will meet the needs of the youth it is to serve.

This youth learns through doing and because the very act of doing

satisfies an inner urge upon which both growth and development depend

it serves a fundamental need. This need finds expression through the

various mediums included in a well planned handcraft program while

the opportunity to express objectively those inner creative urges be-

comes an inviting challenge leading youth into most intriging unex-

plored by-ways. Given a place to work, the tools and materials to work

with and a program based upon individual interests, developed through

keen desire to explore new avenues, new ways and executed in the

channel of creative doing this youth will build for himself a satisfying

avocation to meet the present social demands. And to the leaders of the

Youth Program of the National Council of Catholic Women is extended
the privilege of developing such a plan for the Catholic youth of their

community.

Fundamentally this youth is interested in the work itself for creat-

ing things given untold pleasure not because of the acquired accom-

plishment but mainly because of the sheer joy of experiencing. Only

too wisely does this youth realise and seek the joy obtained through ex-

periencing for in such a way the various concepts of their most illusive

imaginings are brought into concrete form. True, to some these con-

crete samples of illusive imaginings might appear to lack line, form,

design, or the careful finish of the master craftsman yet give total

satisfaction to the do-er. If it is true we learn through doing has not

the experience warranted the product? Out of each effort comes added

ability to the do-er resulting in the development of the skill or technique

required for the much desired finer craftsmanship and a realization that

cannot be measured because of the wonderful quality of its growth. As

for the work itself no sterner critic sits in judgment than this curious,

vivacious youth who sees the flaws yet revels in the realization of their

creative power. It is at this point their confidence needs reassurance and

they seek encouragement from their leader lest dissatisfaction lead

onward to frustration. To encourage, to lead on those who find joy in

such experiencing is a major responsibility of the handcraft leader.

Oddly enough creative ideas are not a heaven sent gift to a choice,

select few. Instead they are the picked and chosen tid-bits gleaned from

the basic concepts of every-day living. Need is the promotor and design

in drawing, painting, sculpturing, architecture, dress, accessories, toys,

transportation, even conversation bow to its will. Forceful as these

needs are just so forceful shall be the ideas, the concepts that interpret

this daily living. Copied or highly stylized patterns, therefore, will not

suffice. Such allows little or no opportunity to the creative urge that



46 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

sent youth seeking expression in handcrafts in the first place, so cannot

possibly fill a demand. With need and desire the compelling forces the

development of the creative urge is a step-by-step process from the

initial expressed interest through the developed or learned skill and

technique until a finished or highly perfected craft results. Such makes

accomplishment subservient to the joy of experiencing and welcomes

with equal sincerity all who enter regardless of ability or heritage.

From those who are responsible for evolving these programs the

ever repeated “how” can such be accomplished when one has little or no

knowledge concerning the varied crafts ? How can I teach that about
which I know so little? Seldom do the leaders realise these very limi-

tations are their greatest asset. Knowledge though always a welcomed

asset is not an essential need. Too little knowledge often protects the

beginning leader from falling into the habit of “teaching too much”.

An honest “I don’t know, but if you find out won’t you tell me?” will

keep youngsters and oldsters busy for hours. It will send them scouting

here and there seeking information, furnishing the drive that will make

his or her group a very energetic, productive unit. The members become

leaders lending impetus that will send the program to soaring heights.

Thus a leader building a program to answer the demands of society

to satisfy a curious youth yet function as a vital part of a larger Youth

Program will do well to remember that:

1. Leaders should have a philosophy of their own so they will

fully realise the direction their program is taking and why it is directed

that way.

2. Handcrafts are based on fundamental urges the development

and growth of which depend more upon a well organized activity than

upon specific knowledge of some individual craft or crafts.

3. Variety of activity, simple but well chosen tools and materials,

guiding descriptive charts showing how to do the various crafts given

a functional basis to any plan.

4. Scrap materials challenge the ingenius.

5. Subordination of organization, management and methods of

teaching is essential. Too often desire for a type of controlled success

makes these techniques an end in themselves,—a deadening threat to
any handcraft program.

6. Success is dependent not so much upon accomplishment as upon

the joy of experiencing. Hence, a product has its own excuse for being

and needs only to please the do-er to be satisfying.

When a handcraft program is builded on a well-planned organiza-

tion, allowing for choice of activity to care for individual differences,

clear descriptive charts as guides in the ways of doing; a wide choice

of tools and materials, a vast amount of opportunity for self-develop-

ment will it be truly functional. Then, and then only, can such a pro-

gram hope to obtain its goal and send out into a continuously changing

world a satisfied, self-reliant, self-confident youth.

Handcrafts Notebook, File-Way Craft Units

N.C.C.W. $1.00

Beatrice Harrison



N. C. C. W. POLICIES ON GIRLS' ATHLETICS

RESOLUTION (in part) adopted at the N.C.C.W. Convention, 1928.

Whereas we, the National Council of Catholic Women, believe that

our bodies should be reverence as temples of the Holy Spirit and taber-

nacles of the race; and

Whereas, their proper physical care and development is conse-

quently a duty as well as a legitimate pleasure:

Be It Resolved That: the National Council of Catholic Women
endorse all athletics for girls and young women that increase power

—

mental and physical, promote health, and provide legitimate enjoyment;

that the National Council record its unalterable opposition to an iden-

tical program for girls and boys; to track meets, exhausting match

games, public exhibitions, as lowering to the dignity of womanhood and

injurious to permanent physical poise and the future hope of mother-

hood.

The National Council of Catholic Women directs attention again to
the Resolution on “Christian Conduct” passed by the convention of

1927 and reaffirms its positive opposition to bathing and other “beauty”

contests as vulgar and dangerous to the morals of Christian women.

RESOLUTION of the N.C.C.W. Convention, 1930.

Whereas: The Women’s Division of the National Amateur Ath-

letic Association has recorded its opposition to competition of women in

the Olympic games, and

Whereas The National Council is in full accord with the standards

for athletics for girls as set forth by this federation.

Resolved: That the National Council of Catholic Women record its
disapproval of the entering of girls and women in such formal spec-

tacular Athletic contests.

GIRLS’ ATHLETICS

In previous conventions (notably 1930), the National Council of

Catholic Women has endorsed the program of the Women’s Division of
the National Amateur Athletic Federation, which is given in full:

1. Promote such programs of athletic activities for all girls and

women as shall meet their needs, and as shall stimulate interest in

activities that are suited to all ages and capacities.

2. Promote competition that stresses enjoyment of sport and the

development of good sportsmanship and character rather than those

types that emphasize the making and breaking of records and the win-

ning of championships for the enjoyment of spectators or for the ath-

letic reputations or commercial advantage of institutions and organi-

zations.

3. Promote interest in awards for athletic accomplishment that

have little or no intrinsic value.



48 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

4. Promote educational publicity that places the emphasis upon

sports and its values rather than upon the competitors.

5. Promote the use of suitable costumes for athletic activities.

6. Promote the provision of sanitary and adequate environment

and facilities for athletic activities.

7. Promote the apportionment of adequate time allotment for a

physical education program such as shall meet the needs of the various

age groups for growth, development and the maintenance of physical

fitness.

8. Promote the training and employment of women administra-

tors, leaders and officials who are qualified to assume full responsibility

for the physical education and recreation of girls and women.

9. Protect the health of girls and women through the promotion

of medical examinations and medical “follow-up” as a basis for par-

ticipation in athletic competition, and of a system of supervision that

shall assure a reasonable and sane attitude toward participation in

activities at times of temporary physical unfitness.

10. Protect athletic activities for girls and women from the dangers

attendant upon competition that involves travel, and from their com-

mercialization by interest in gate receipts.

11. Promote the general adoption of approved rules for the conduct

of athletics and games for girls and women.

12. Promote the study of the existing rules of all sports to the end

that they may be changed to meet the specific needs of girls and

women.

The above platform is used with the permission of the

Women’s Division of the National Amateur Athletic Federation

303 West 42nd Street

New York, New York



PLAY DAYS

“A Play Day is a day when girls from several groups

meet and play WITH rather than AGAINST each other.”

Play Day programs vary with the facilities available, with the

ages of the participants, and the game skills which they have acquired.

However, the general form of Play Day organizations is as follows:

Receptions of guests, registration of all participants, orienta-

tion and dressing.

First gathering of all players, organization of color teams,

get-acquainted games, ice breakers or folk dances.

Reassemble by color teams and go to playing fields.

Two or three half hour periods of team competition in which

teams rotate from one activity to another at end of half hour

periods. Program usually consists of one highly organized

game, one less organized game, and one section devoted to in-

dividual games and stunts, conducted by means of challenges.

One period for mass games in which half the girls compete

against the other half in such activities as relays, giant volley-

ball, etc.

Showers, dress and rest period.

Reassemble by color teams for group singing, cheers, ennounce-

ment of scorefi, stunts, refreshments, social dancing, or any

other recreational activities of a social nature.

It is important to note that in a true Play Day the girls represent-

ing a school or similar group do not play together, but are separated,

and play with girls from many schools, or a color team against other

color teams. These color teams are determined at the time of regis-

tration, when each girl is given a colored arm band. Her school mates

receive arm bands of other colors. All girls wearing arm bands of one

color become members of that color team for the Play Day. Many
meets, festivals and tournaments are conducted with the social aspects

of Play Day but with original teams as units. However, a true Play

Day is conducted on the color team basis.

PLAY DAY BIBLIOGRAPHY

Play Days for Industrial Girls, Helen Coops, N.R.A. Bulletin No. 1839.

The Question of Play Days for Industrial Girls, Dorothea Nelson,

N.R.A. No. 1882.

A Tournament for Girls, Dora E. Doslyn, N.R.A. No. 1807.

Play Days for Girls, Oakland, Calif. N.R.A. No. 1566.



COMMUNITY NIGHTS
One means of reaching the unemployed and the working girls, con-

sequently getting them into the youth program, is through the Com-

munity Night in the club or in the parish center. It is, moreover, one

of the best methods of demonstrating the recreational program to the

parents and friends, and this is an important factor when an appeal for

support is to be made.

Every parish center or club should be open one time every week, or

at least once a month for community activities. The usual Community

Night program is two-fold, aiming as it does to show the parents what

youth has been doing as the center, and to get the adults to take part

in the activities. About half or three quarters of an hour is devoted to a

program by youth, thus giving them a much desired opportunity to

show what they can do, and also giving the director a means of improv-

ing the quality of the daily activities, for, of course, only the best can

be presented for the parents. Therefore a typical Community Night pro-

gram will include the best of the activities conducted during the week,

and such things as adults and youth can enjoy together such as:

Youth program

Glee Club Harmonica Club

Clog Dancing Class Folk Dancing

Playlet or Pantomime Toy Orchestra

Concert by radio, phonograph, band, or youth band

Community singing

Games, contests, stunts and relays for adults and youth

Dancing, modern, folk or old time.

Plan some special activity for each Community Night. Some special

nights might include:

“Come and See Your Center” “Art and Dramatic Day”

“Pet and Hobby Day” “Father and Brother Day”

“Stunt Nite” “Midsummer Day”

“Mother and Daughter Day” “Floral Parade”

“Handcraft and Pageant Night”“Sports Day”

“Water Pageant” “Visit another Center Day”

“Circus Day” “Picnic Night”

The following pamphlets, helpful in planning for Community

Nights, may be obtained from the National Recreation Association, 315
Fourth Avenue, New York, New York.

“Rural and Small Community “Picnic Programs” .. 15c

Recreation” 75c “What Shall We Do” .. 25c
“Fun for Everyone”

“Recreational Games and

50c

“Play Production Made ...

Programs” 50c Easy” .. 50c

“A Few Suggestions for So- “Six more Dramatic

cial Recreation” No. 1470.— free Stunts” .. 35c



HIKING AND CAMPING

“The Groves were God’s First Temples” W. C. Bryant

“To know God is to know His handiwork!” As Catholic Leaders, we

have the privilege of giving to our young women the very real joys of

the out-of-doors, and in addition we have the responsibility of helping

them to appreciate better the beauties of God’s universe.

Hiking and camping take advance planning, careful preparation and

wise guidance, for the dangers of the out-of-doors must be met before

the real pleasure can be enjoyed.

Let each out-of-door even have some special feature that will make

of it a happy anticipation and a happy memory:

I. Mental pictures of beauty—God’s Own Artistry
“A host of Golden Daffodils” A flock of sheep
A Canopy of trees A deer running
A heron at sunrise A Bird Symphony

II. A camp fire with a central theme

Twilight Prayer

A Song Fest of Nations

A Nature Poetry Night

Study of the Stars

III. A Natural Trail Nature Lore Nature stories

IV. Special Camp Menus

Kabobs, Angels-on-Horseback, Somemore’ems, Etc.

Tin can cookery

Bean hole or ham hole

V. Out-of-door games, contests and relays.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Day Camping Maude L. Dryden
National Recreation Association—25c

Day Hikes Girl Scouts 50c

The Girls’ Camp 1 Abbie Graham
The Woman’s Press, 600 Lexington Ave., New York City—$1.50

Girl Scout Publications Girl Scouts, Inc.

14 W. 49th St., New York City

Birch-Bark Roll E. T. Seton

A. S. Barnes Co., New York City

God’s Amazing World Dr. Tihamer Toth

Translated by Stephen Chapkovicn

P. J. Kenedy and Son, New York



A SUGGESTIVE LIST OF SPORTS FOR GIRLS

MINOR SPORTS

Ping pong Dart ball Clock golf

Deck tennis Shuffleboard Paddle tennis

Tetherball Horseshoe Quoits

LARGE GROUP SPORTS

Volley-ball Dodge ball Soccer

Hit-pin Speed ball Hiking

Newcomb Hockey Camping

Swimming Bicycling Roller-skating

Boating Horse-back riding Ice skating

Canoeing Bowling Skiing

SMALL GROUP SPORTS

Tennis Archery Handball

Golf Badminton Fencing

SELECTIVE TEAM SPORTS

Basket-ball Base-ball Soft-ball

References

:

1. Youth Today and Tomorrow

National Council of Catholic Women

2. Youth Leadership and Catholic Action N.C.C.W.

3. Women and Athletics
Prepared for the Women’s Division N.A.A.F.

By A. S. Barnes Co., 67 W. 44th Street, New York City—75c

4. Handbook for Recreational Leaders Publication No. 231

Children’s Bureau, U.S. Dept, of Labor, Washington, D.C.
;
20c

5. Games and Recreational Methods Charles F. Smith

Dodd, Mead and Co., 443 Fourth Ave., New York City; $2.50

6. Games and Game Leadership Charles F. Smith

Dodd, Mead and Co. $2.50

7. Selected Recreational Sports Post and Shirley

A. S. Barnes Company $2.00

8. Team Sports for Women , Frymir and Hillas
A. S. Barnes Company $3.00

9. Social Games for Recreation Mason and Mitchell

A. S. Barnes Company $2.50



HOBBIES

In giving to our Youth a general program of spiritual, cultural,

vocational, and recreational activities, we should attempt as well to give

to each girl a predominating interest that will bring her “joy” through-

out life. In our program she should be privileged to have a widening

glimpse of many “hobbies”, but from the number should select those

that especially appeal—but be certain that she is always respectful of
the other girls’ preference as well.

Life of a special Saint

Personal prayer books

Madonna study—collections
Cathedrals of any or many

countries

Statues

Architecture

Painting

Drawing

Sketching

Clay modeling

Soap carving

Weaving

Embroidery

Tatting

Knitting

Crocheting

Home beautiful
Period furniture

Types of homes

Cooking—special dishes
Recipes—books—boxes
Glass

Pottery

Music

Books

Book-binding

Poetry-special subjects

Drama

Marionnettes

Puppets

Dancing

Foreign language

Period of history

Costumes of countries and eras

Dolls of countries

Flags of nations

Photography

Stamp collections

Maps

Coins

Nature lore

Nature collections

Nature poetry

Gardens

Hiking—camping
Camp cooking

Campcraft

Hobbies—a Bibliography (complete and good)
U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D. C.

Hobbies—Bulletin 3157—a list of suggestions
National Recreation Association, 315 Fourth Ave., New York City

Care and Feeding of Hobby Horses—Ernest Elmo Calkins—25c
Leisure League of America, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York City



UNUSUAL FUNCTIONS ADD VARIETY
LET SPECIAL EVENTS BE SPECIAL

January July

New Year’s Party
Initial Party

Mozart (27)—Musical
Snow-ball party

Sleigh-bell excursion

February

Valentine party

George Washington Tea

Backwoods Party

Fourth of July

Water Festival

Nautical Party

August

Gypsy Trail Party

Sunrise Breakfast

Seashore Jaunt

March

St. Patrick’s Day

Pan-cake Party

Springtime party

September

Scavanger Hunt

Steak Roast

Progressive Party

Trade Mark Trail

April

All-Fools Day

Easter Party

Detective Party

White Elephant Party

October

Waffle Supper

Hallowe’en

A Corn Husking

May

“Mary’s Day”

Mother’s Day

May Party for Service School
Garden party—May pole

November

Armistice—World Peace
St. Cecilia (Music)

Thanksgiving—one of service

June

Twilight supper

Song Fest—Campfire
Alice-in-Wonderland Party

December

Immaculate Conception (poetry)

^hristmas

Christmas Carols

Candy-land party

General

Old-Fashioned party

Colonial Ball

Fashion Show

Calico Party

Backwards Party

Kiddie Party

Gingham Party

Poverty Supper

Flip-flop hike

Play-nite

Stunt-nite

Mother Goose’s children



BIBLIOGRAPHY

CATHOLIC ACTION

Catholic Action Rt. Rev. Msgr. Luigi Civardi

Sheed-Ward Publishers—$2.00
Conferences on Catholic Action Most Rev. Guiseppe Pizzardo, D.D.

N.C.W.C.—25c

Aids to Catholic Action

N.C.W.C.—25c

Christ and the Christian Life Rt. Rev. John J. Burke, C.S.P.

Longmann-Green and Company, 55 Fifth Ave., N.Y.C.—$2.00
The Mystical Body of Christ Rt. Rev. Fulton J. Sheen, Ph.D.

Sheed-Ward Publishers, 63 Fifth Ave., N.Y.C.—$2.00
The National Catholic Welfare Conference N.C.W.C.

N.C.W.C.—25c

Catholic Action N.C.W.C. Monthly Magazine

$2.00 a year

NATIONAL COUNCIL CATHOLIC WOMEN
Youth Leaders Handbook 25c

Youth Today and Tomorrow 10c

Youth Leadership and Catholic Action 10c

Call to Youth—1937 25c

Call to Youth—1938 25c
Call to Youth—1939 25c

General Program for Leisure Time Activities 5c

Culture for Young People 5c

Youth folder free

Handcraft Note book 1.00

GENERAL

The Needs of Youth Rev. George Johnson, Ph.D.

N.C.W.C.—10c

Leadership in Group Work Dr. Henry M. Busch

Association Press, 347 Madison Ave., New York City, $2.25

Studies in Group Behavior Grace L. Coyle

Harper & Bros. 49 E. 33 St., New York City—$2.75
Psychology of Character Rudolph Allers

Sheed & Ward, 63 Fifth Ave., New York City—$4.00—abridged
$2.00

Psychology of Adolescence Fowler D. Brooks

Houghton-Mifflin Co., 386 Fourth Ave., New York City



56 YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK

Training the Adolescent Rev. R. McCarthy, S.J.

Bruce Publishing Co., 524 N. Milwaukee St., Milwaukee—$2.00
Sex Education and Training in Chastity

Rev. Felix M. Kirsch, O.M.C.

Benziger Bros., 26 Park Place, New York City—$2.25
The Rural Community Newell L. Sims

Chas. Scribner’s Sons, 597 Fifth Ave., New York City

The Gang Age Dr. Paul Hanley Furfey

The Parish and Play Dr. Paul Hanley Furfey

You and Your Children Dr. Paul Hanley Furfey

Benziger Bros., 429 Main Street, Cincinnati, Ohio—$1.50 each
The Adolescent, His Development and Major Problems

Dr. Henry C. Schumacher

N.C.W.C.—25c

PRACTICAL FOR PROGRAM PLANNING

Recreation for Girls and Women Ethel M. Bowers
Prepared for the National Recreation Association

by the A. S. Barnes Co., 67 W. 44th St., N.Y.C.—$3.00

Good Times for All Times Nina B. Lamkin

Samuel French, Inc., 25 W. 45th St., N.Y.C.—$2.50
Parish Activities Publications Rev. George M. Nell

Effingham, Illinois

Girl’s Clubs Helen Ferris

E. P. Dutton Co., 286 Fourth Ave., N.Y.C.—$2.00
Girl Scout Manual and Other Publications

National Girl Scouts, Inc., 14 W. 49th St., N.Y.C.

Partners in Play : Mary J. Breen

National Recreation Ass’n.—$1.00
Recreation Monthly Magazine

National Playground Ass’n. 315 Fourth Ave., N.Y.C. $2.00

Leadership Organization of Social Recreation .... Robert K. Murray

National Recreation Ass’n.—30c
Recreation Bulletin Service Bi-Monthly Bulletin

National Recreation Service—$2.00 a year.

GOVERNMENT HELPS

1. Development of a leisure-time program in small cities and

towns

Children’s Bureau

U.S. Department of Labor

Washington, D. C.

2. Handbook for Recreational Leaders Publication No. 23

Children’s Bureau, Washington, D. C.—20c



YOUTH LEADERS’ HANDBOOK 57

3. 4-H Clubs—Programs, projects and organization
Numerous pamphlets helpful to rural organization of Youth

4-H Clubs—Extensions Division
U. S. Department of Agriculture

Washington, D. C.

4. Youth—a Contemporary Bibliography . . . ask to have your
name put on list

Committee on Youth Problems, Office of Education

U.S. Department of Interior

Washington, D. C.

5. Current References on American Youth Problems . . . American

Youth Commission of the American Council of Education, 744

Jackson Pl., Washington, D. C.

6. Publications of the Committee on Youth problems—10c each
Youth—How Communities Can Help—No. 18 I
Youth—Leisure for Living—No. 18 II
Youth—Education for Those

Out-of-School—No. 18 III

Youth—Vocational Guidance—No. 18 IV
Youth—Finding Jobs—No. 18 V
Youth—Health Protection—No. 18 VI
Youth—Community Surveys—No. 18 VII

Write: Superintendent of Documents

Washington, D. C.