Salesian Youth Leadership Conference
General Information

What is it?

The Salesian Youth Leadership Conference (SYLC) is an experience of leadership training and networking for young people from Salesian ministries throughout the Western United States. Since the summer of 1985, young people and adults have gathered at SYLC to develop their abilities as youth ministry leaders and to grow in friendship as members of the Salesian Youth Movement. A significant contribution to this gathering comes from YouthLeader, a national Catholic youth leadership training program developed by the Center of Ministry Development. YouthLeader provides most of the training that happens at SYLC.

Who is it for?

SYLC is for young people between the ages of 15 and 21 from Salesian schools, parishes, youth centers and camps who are either already in leadership or demonstrate potential for being a Christian leader among their peers.  SYLC is also for adults who serve in ministry with youth.  Full participation in the SYLC experience will equip youth and adult leaders with skills and strategies for Salesian youth ministry.

What is Learned?

During SYLC over 125 youth and adult leaders develop the under-standing and skills necessary to serve as key animators at any Salesian school, parish, youth center or summer ministry. The workshops presented by YouthLeader are key resource for this leadership development. Workshop topics include Being Proactive, Principle-Centered Living, Communication, Group Facilitation, Following Jesus, The Gifts of Youth, Win/Win Negotiation, Planning Skills and Mission & Spirit.

Another key ingredient of the SYLC week is formation in Salesian Youth Spirituality, fostered through community life, daily prayer experiences and the Salesian tradition of brief “good night” reflections.  Spiritual themes learned and lived during the week include Finding God in Daily life, Following Jesus, Building Communion, Joy and Optimism, Responsible Service and Called to Mission. Fun is also essential to the week with daily recreation through sports and excursions to the beach as well as community socials in the evening.  Through all these activities shared as a community, SYLC becomes an experience of home, school, church and playground similar to the first oratory animated by the presence and charism of St. John Bosco.

When will it take place?

SYLC is usually held in the third week of June.  It has been held at various sites.  For 2006, SYLC will take place at Camp St. Francis near Santa Cruz.  It will begin on Monday, June 19, 2006 and continue through Sunday morning, June 25, 2006.

What's the cost?

The registration fee for SYLC is $220 per participant.  This includes lodging, food, training program and resources for seven days.  Some Salesian communities conduct fundraisers to help offset the cost of their participants.

How do I register?

Contact the local Coordinator of Youth Ministry, Director or Pastor in your community for registration information.  For further assistance contact the Salesian Youth and Young Adult Ministry Office at 626-280-8622#35 or email sdbyouth@salesianym.org.