What does a Big Fish do?

Most Big Fish will be assigned to a small group that has an adult leader and 7-10 middle school youth.  We plan to have 2 Big Fish for each small group. The adult group leader will provide the Big Fish with instructions and guidance for small group discussions and activities. Big Fish are expected to be good role models for the middle school students and to help them engage in the activities and discussion.

Big Fish will be part of skits or other games within the large group setting (when all the small groups come together). Big Fish will be involved in planning one EDGE night per semester. Some Big Fish will do special jobs like photography, technology, hospitality, etc.

How do I sign up to be a Big Fish? When do I need to attend events?

Every person desiring to be a Big Fish must turn in an application (even if you were a Big Fish last year). You will work with the Edge students (6 ^th-8 ^th graders) that meet on Sunday evenings from  6:30-8:15pm, September through April. Big Fish are invited and strongly encouraged to attend all the retreats, as you will be part of the CORE team leading the retreats. There may be a few other events throughout the year that a small number Big Fish will be invited to attend, like the Diocesan Middle School Youth Rally, Vocations Days or some field trips. 

How do I prepare to be a Big Fish?

There will be a training session in September. All Big Fish are expected to attend this all day event.  There will also be weekly meetings to receive additional leadership training. This is a full school year commitment designed to help build your leadership skills and your ability to help the middle school youth find ways to see how the Holy Spirit is at work in their daily lives.  You are a mentor for the youth and therefore will be expected to maintain a higher standard of conduct as a role model for them.

Qualities that adult leaders are looking for in their Big Fish:

* Good example of a young person doing their best to lead a faithful life
* Able to speak easily in awkward social situations
* Willing to share personal stories/faith
* Treat younger children as equals
* Working on a consistent prayer life
* Mature enough to be distinguishable from most of the youth being mentored
* Curiosity to learn more about their faith
* Willing to keep silent when asked
* Regular attendee to mass, confession
* Awareness of the Holy Spirit's action in their lives at some level and able to express it/discuss it
* Fun to be around, good sense of humor
* Willing to express real feelings
* Willing to serve with a smile on various tasks, like set-up, clean-up, etc.

Can I be a Big Fish and still attend Life Teen group meetings for high school students?

Yes! We have staggered the time of EDGE and Life Teen, so all Big Fish can head down to the youth room as soon as EDGE is done for the night. We know that you need time to get your own formation and interaction with peers to help you in your personal relationship with Jesus.

Applications are now closed for the 2021-22 school year.

---