Make It Happen
Eight weeks before Lent
- Identify volunteer(s) responsible for editing and compilation of the book.
- Identify young adults who will be asked to contribute/write. Compile a list with contact information to send personal invitations.
- Compile a list of the daily Gospel readings for the season of Lent.
- Create a “Writing Instructions” page that will be sent out with the invitation. These instructions will include length of meditations (suggestion: 250-300 words), deadlines (two-three weeks from assignment date), and any other instructions about the content of the prayer book. (See Help section for a sample.)
- Send personal invitation to young adults to contribute a meditation. Attach assigned scripture passage, writing instructions, and any other material you might want to include.
- Keep track of assignments on a spreadsheet.
Seven weeks before Lent
- Follow up with those who have not replied to the initial invitation. Send a second e-mail inviting them to participate.
- Reach out to other young adults if responses are too slow.
- If necessary, a young adult can write two or three meditations (depending of the number of positive responses). If needed, this is the time for reaching out to those who might want to contribute a second meditation.
- Remind writers of deadlines.
Five-six weeks before Lent
- Begin editing meditations and begin compilation of booklet using Microsoft Publisher or other desktop publishing software.
- Create an introduction page containing suggestions of how to use the prayer book, as well as other helpful resources/hints. (See Help section for a sample introduction page.)
Four weeks before Lent
- Continue to collect and edit meditations.
- Remind writers of deadlines.
- Ensure that all Gospel readings are covered.
Two-three weeks before Lent
- Send prayer book to printer (unless it is printed in house).
- Once books are received begin distribution of prayer book.
- Encourage pastor and parish leaders to promote the book with young adults.
One week before Lent
- Ask writers and other contributors to help distribute the prayer book at Mass or other young adult gatherings.
- Post flyers about the book in the church and even local coffee shops. Let people know how to obtain one (e.g., provide an e-mail address or leave copies in the church office to be distributed.)
- Recruit volunteers or instruct ushers to hand out the prayer book to young adults who might be visiting your parish on Ash Wednesday.
Ash Wednesday (and beginning of Lent)
- Remind writers and other young adults that Lent is about to begin and to make sure they have a copy of the prayer book.
- Hand out the prayer books to young adults visiting your parish on Ash Wednesday and the first Sunday or two of Lent.
