CFC youth for christ

TRAINING TRACKS FOR COUPLE COORINATORS

Basic Couple Coordinators’

Training
2012 Revised Edition

Manila, Philippines
 Table of Contents
BASIC COUPLE COORDINATORS’
TRAINING MANUAL 2012 Revised Edition

Chapter 1 THE YFC BCCT GUIDELINES AND DYNAMICS

Rationale 9
Overview 9
Objectives 10
Program Schedule 10
Summary of the Sessions and Workshops 11
Guidelines and Reminders in Conducting the Activity 11

Chapter 2 THE SESSIONS AND WORKSHOPS

Session 1: Understand. Affirm. Pastor

Session Dynamics 15
Expanded Outline 19

Session 2: Called to be Couple Coordinators

Session Dynamics 28
Expanded Outline 30

Workshop 1: Conducting One-on-Ones with the Youth

Workshop Dynamics 41
Workshop Outline 44

Workshop 2: Leading a Prayer Meeting

Workshop Dynamics 48
Workshop Outline 50
Mock Prayer Meeting 55

Annexes

Annex A: Sample Problem Tree and Sample Solution Tree 57
Annex B: 100% Free Concept Paper 58
Annex C: 3-Year Pastoral Formation Track 62
Annex D: The YFC Household Topic Manual Guide 67
Annexes

Annex E: The YFC Chapter Assembly Manual Topic Guide 72
Annex F: The YFC Leaders Assembly Manual Topic Guide 76
Annex G: Situations for the One-on-One Workshop 80
Annex H: Worship 82
Annex I: The YFC Area Levels of Growth and Structure 84
 CHAPTER 1
THE YFC BCCT GUIDELINES AND
DYNAMICS

Rationale

T he Youth for Christ (YFC) Couple Coordinators (CCs) play a very

fundamental role in the fulfillment of the CFC Vision through the young.
Their stewardship is an integral part in the pastoral and developmental
formation of YFC members. They are given an opportunity to be the
models and guides as to how the youth can live Christ-centered lives,
being their mentors especially in times of challenges and difficulties. The
direct interaction that they have with the Youth for Christ under their care
makes it possible for them to be parent-figures that these YFC can look up
and run to outside of the home, while at the same time bringing the youth
back into their homes as sources of unity in their respective families. In
this way, the YFC CCs become instruments of joy, love, and peace. The YFC
Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training (BCCT) Module is then implemented
so that the YFC CCs will understand and embrace the YFC ministry – its
purpose and vision, and the different programs that give life to its mission.

Overview

T he YFC Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training (BCCT) is a whole day

activity conducted for all YFC Couple Coordinators: whether they have
been serving as YFC CCs for a time already, or are newly appointed CCs
coming from a different service in CFC and/or the other Family Ministries.
The BCCT provides the basics of being YFC Couple Coordinators: to instill
in the CCs the mission and vision of Youth For Christ, to lay out everything
that there is to know and do in the YFC Ministry, and to generally equip
and empower the CCs in their service. Also, this serves as a “pre-requisite”
for the appointment of YFC CCs. Hence, the BCCT is the basic training
10 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l ch a p te r 1 11

requirement for all YFC CCs1. Workshop 1: Conducting One-on-

1:30 – 2:30 p.m. 1 hour
The BCCT is conducted at the top level YFC area. For Metro Manila, Ones with the Youth
it is done at the Sector Level. For Philippine Missions, it is done at the 2:30 – 2:45 15 Break
Provincial Level. And for International Missions, it is done at the National/ Workshop 2: Leading a Prayer
Regional/Country Level depending on the Area’s Level. 2:45 – 3:45 1 hour
Meeting
3:45 – 4:00 15 Closing Prayer
Objectives
Summary of the Sessions and Workshops
For the participants:
TITLE SUMMARY
1. To be provided with basic information about the YFC ministry.
A session introducing the real situation
2. To be provided with instructional tools for the understanding of the and environment affecting the modern-day
roles and responsibilities of an effective YFC Couple Coordinator. Session 1: Understand. youth that the CCs will be handling. Also,
a) To develop the CCs’ pastoral skills in taking care of the young. Affirm. Pastor. a session on understanding the basics of
serving in YFC: the fundamental technical
know-how.
Program Schedule
A pastoral session empowering the couples
as husband and wife, and the role of their
T he BCCT is a whole day, eight (8) hour activity. It can be conducted becoming a solid pastoral team as Couple
on a Saturday or Sunday, whichever day is not in conflict with any YFC Session 2: Called to be
Coordinators. Also, a session on learning
activity. Couple Coordinators
the roles and responsibilities of a Couple
Time Duration Activity Coordinator in light of the service structure
of YFC.
8:00 – 8:30 am 30 mins. Registration
8:30 – 9:00 30 Opening Worship Workshop 1: Conducting A workshop on learning the proper process
9:00 – 9:30 30 Icebreaker/Game One-on-Ones with the of conducting one-on-ones with the youth
Session 1: Understand. Affirm. Youth members.
9:30 – 10:15 45
Pastor.
Workshop 2: Leading a A workshop on learning the basic skills and
10:15 – 10:30 15 Break Prayer Meeting process of leading a prayer meeting.
Session 2: Called to be Couple
10:30 – 11:30 1 hour
Coordinators Guidelines and Reminders in Conducting the
11:30 – 12:45 pm 1.15 Lunch Break Activity
12:45 – 1:00 15 Worship
A. Description and Roles of the Service Team
1:00 – 1:30 30 Icebreaker/Game
(Note: The service team for the BCCT should be Couple Coordinators, with help and
support in some roles by YFC leaders.)

1 After the BCCT, a new batch of Training Modules will be implemented specific to
1. Team Leader
the CCs’ area of service: Chapter Couple Coordinators’ Training, Cluster Couple Coordinators’
Training, Sector Couple Coordinators’ Training, and Program Couple Coordinators’ Training.
A designated YFC CC who leads the whole activity. Since
All these modules put together comprise the YFC COUPLE COORDINATORS’ TRAINING KIT.
12 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l ch a p te r 1 13

the BCCT is conducted at the top level YFC area, the Team 7. Speakers
Leader is preferably the top-level CC, like the Over-all Sector
Couple Coordinator for Metro Manila, Provincial Couple Deliver the Sessions/Workshops. Their profiles are in the
Coordinator for Philippine Missions, and National/Regional/ session dynamics.
Country Coordinator for International Missions. Either that, or B. Checklist
the Team Leader is a CC that is part of the YFC top-level Core
Group (e.g. Sector Core Group or Provincial Core Group). The οο Venue
Team Leader looks for the venue and oversees the physical οο Tables and chairs
preparations, as well as contacting his fellow CCs prior to
the scheduled BCCT and ensuring their attendance. As he οο Sound system
facilitates the BCCT, he makes sure that all the objectives are
met, sees to it that everything is done on time, wraps up/ οο LCD Projector
summarizes after every session and connects and processes οο White Screen
all the points of the talks together.
οο Laptop
2. Assistant Team Leader
οο Registration sheets
A CC who aids the Team Leader in ensuring attendance
of all the CCs, takes care of the food preparation, materials οο YFC Brochure
needed for the sessions, and the budgeting and finance. οο Fact Sheets per couple (copies located in Appendices):
3. Music Ministry • Participants’ Handouts of the Sessions and Workshops
Plays selected songs and motivates participation during • 100% Free Concept Paper
the worship, gathering, and reflection during the sessions.
They can be YFC leaders. • Answering The Cry of The Poor (ANCOP) Concept Paper
4. Registration Team • The 3-Year Pastoral Formation Track
CCs who are in-charge of the registration sheets and the • The YFC Household Manual Topic Guide
collection of registration fees. Prior to the BCCT, they help
the Team Leader and Assistant Team Leader in following- • Overview of the YFC Chapter Assembly Manual Topic
up their fellow attending CCs to ensure complete/maximum Guide
attendance of the participants. In coordination with the • Overview of the YFC Leaders’ Assembly Manual Topic
Assistant Team Leader, they also take care of the food and the Guide
materials needed for the training.
• Worship
5. Worship Leaders
• Levels of Growth
CC brothers that are designated to lead the worship: one
Worship Leader in the morning and one Worship Leader in οο Situations for the One-on-Ones (see Appendix G)
the afternoon, or depending on the program schedule. οο List of icebreakers/games
6. Icebreaker/Game Facilitators οο Lunch and snacks (depending on the agreed scheme of the
CCs who conduct the icebreakers/games to keep the Team)
participants alert and receptive. οο Bond papers
14 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l

οο Colored cards (¼ - size bond paper)

• Three (3) different colors per participant
-- red cards (two pieces per couple)
-- blue cards (two pieces per couple)
-- yellow cards (one piece per couple)
CHAPTER 2

• Another set of green colored cards UNDERSTAND. AFFIRM. PASTOR.

οο Marker/felt-tip pen/pentel pen, at least one (1) piece per three Session One of the Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training
(3) couples SESSION DYNAMICS
οο Any adhesive tape
“As (Jesus) saw the crowds, his heart was filled with pity for them, because they were worried
οο Manila paper and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. So he said to his disciples, ‘The harvest is large,
but there are few workers to gather it in. Pray to the owner of the harvest that he will send out
(Please refer to the Talk/Workshop outlines for when and where specific materials workers to gather in his harvest.’” (Matthew 9:36-38)
are needed.)

Objectives
For the participants:

1. To understand the nature of our young generation, in lieu of the

environment that they are living in.
2. To see the importance of Couple Coordinators (CCs) in the lives
and the future of today’s youth.
3. To give a basic introduction of the YFC ministry.

Speaker’s Profile
The Family Ministries Head, or the Top YFC Couple Coordinator of the
area: the Over-all Sector Couple Coordinator for Metro Manila, Provincial
Couple Coordinator for Philippine Missions, and National/Regional/
Country Coordinator for International Missions. Must be someone who
could share his own experiences in serving with the young. Can also be
someone who is a model “family-man” with children (either still young
or already grown-up), so that he can connect the session with how he is
raising/has raised his own children.

Dynamics
1. Opening Video:
16 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
Video Profile:
• The pre-produced video (3 – 5 minutes) will be divided
into three (3) segments.
• The First Segment will show the original plan of God for
the World, and how He intended it to be. The segment
will showcase God presenting His promise to the prophet
Jeremiah in the verse Jeremiah 29:11-14: a promise of a
future full of abundance and hope.
• The Second Segment will showcase how man – especially
the youth of today – neglects that future through vices,
violence, selfishness, corruption, immorality, and an over-
all negative perversion of values. The video will show the
disoriented views that most young people have nowadays
in handling the different aspects of their lives (e.g.
cheating in school just to pass, entering into a romantic
relationship for all the wrong reasons, etc.). The last part
of this segment will show a youth shouting, “STOP!” Then
darkness comes in.
• Coming from the darkness, the Third Segment will open
with a small light forming into words: “How far have we
known them? Do we truly care? Are we all ready to love?”
Then a glimpse of a Couple counseling, guiding, and
helping the young is seen. Pictures of Couple Coordinators
having fun with YFC during conferences and activities
then follow. These pictures should be many and should
move fast across the screen, until the entire segment ends
by flashing the statement ‘Understand.Affirm.Pastor.’
2. Opening Activity: The Solution Tree
• The speaker comes in after the video and launches into an
interactive discussion with the participants, asking them to
point out one by one the basic issues/struggles of the young
as seen on the video.
• The speaker then calls on the service team to distribute the
red, blue, and yellow colored cards to the participants (refer
to the checklist above, or the materials needed below).
The speaker asks the participants to recall two (2) positive
and two (2) negative scenes that they saw on the video, and
write them down/state them on the following corresponding
colored cards: red for negative, and blue for positive scenes.
ch a p te r 2 17
The yellow colored cards, on the other hand, are used to write
down the potential problems or common challenges that are
encountered when trying to solve a negative scene that they
cited from the video, with one yellow card corresponding to
one red card/negative statement. The Speaker then collects
all the yellow cards and pastes it on the Manila Paper/Brown
Paper, arranging the cards into a pasted up “Problem Tree”,
with the “higher level” problem above the other “lower level”
problems (See sample Problem Tree in Annex A).
• The Speaker then sets up the “Solution Tree” in variance with
the Problem Tree. The Problems – the negative statements on
the yellow cards – will be converted into positive statements
as Solutions, which will then be written on GREEN CARDS, and
pasted up as the corresponding Solution Tree. To cut short the
time for this portion, the Speaker can be the one to write the
solution cards. Example of Problem being transformed into
Solution: Problem (written on yellow card) “Fewer youth go
to church.” Solution (written on green card) “Encourage more
youth to go to church.” (See sample Solution Tree in Annex A)
• The whole exercise should be conducted within fifteen (15)
minutes. The Speaker need not consider all the cards if the
participants are many.
• The goal of the activity is to make the Couple Coordinators
realize that any negative observation should be seen as a
challenge, in order to bring about a determination in solving
any problem. This leads them to realize that they can do the
same for the young.
3. Talk Proper
4. Reflection
Materials Needed
1. Colored cards (¼ - size bond paper)
οο Three (3) different colors per participant
-- Red cards (two pieces per couple) for writing down the
negative scenes
-- Blue cards (two pieces per couple) for writing down the
positive scenes
18 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l

-- Yellow cards (one piece per couple) for writing down

the challenges/problems encountered when looking
for a solution to the negative scenes written on the
red cards
οο The Speaker will be given a set of green colored cards for the
possible solutions. CHAPTER 2
2. Marker/felt-tip pen/pentel pen, at least one (1) piece per three (3)
couples.
UNDERSTAND. AFFIRM. PASTOR.
Session One of the Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training
3. Any adhesive tape
EXPANDED OUTLINE
4. Manila paper
5. Laptop Introduction
6. LCD Projector
7. White Scree
T he video that we saw and the problem tree that we made reminds
us of the many challenges that our young people are currently facing.
Although admittedly we have already experienced (and surpassed) the
many things that they are going through right now, this day and age is
very different from when we were still in their shoes.
This is the scenario that our young people are in, and our Youth For
Christ members are no exception in experiencing it. Therefore, this is where
we also come in. As Couple Coordinators (CCs), we are given a special task
to take care of our YFC members, and nourish them as God’s gifts to us.
It is our mission to bring our youth to Christ. In order to do this, we need
to find a way to relate and deal with them. We have to understand, affirm,
and pastor.

Understanding the Youth

T o effectively serve our youth, it is essential that we first comprehend

and appreciate the grounds from which they are coming from, as
influenced by the environment where they are living in. We will then see
the factors that affect their emotions, decision-making, and daily purposes
and ambitions.
• They are in that stage wherein they are transitioning from
childhood to adulthood, from dependence to independence. This
explains their curiosity, their eagerness to know things, and their
wanting to explore and get a hold on what others have already
experienced or are experiencing – but they themselves haven’t yet
gone through.
20 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
• They are still living with their parents and growing up with
brothers and/or sisters. Hence, their families are also adjusting to
the changes brought about by this transition. At times, some of
the youth are affected when their parents spend less time with
them due to the demanding needs and pressures of work. Some
get compared with their siblings, so they tend to either feel less
of themselves, or become grossly over-competitive. This leads
to either apathy and complacency, or being too eager to please
others. Also – brought about by many reasons – some grow up
in a home with only one parent, or with both parents absent. This
sometimes brings about a feeling of lack: that they are incomplete.
And, depending on the situation, sometimes they feel that they
are unloved or unappreciated.
• They are yearning to establish their own identities, oftentimes
becoming rebellious especially when we, their parents, impress
on them our advice, guidance, and “tried and tested ways.” More
often than not, they see our corrections as irrelevant, restrictive, or
even unfair. They become increasingly attracted to their peers who
– just like them – are open to trying out new things.
• Part of the structures that they rebel against is the idea of school
itself. Studies become part of the routine that young people find
unexciting. This attitude leads them to look for other things to
do that are “more enjoyable” for them. They start engaging in
recreational activities such as hanging out with friends, playing
video games, and surfing Internet sites for entertainment purposes.
These are only some examples that – when left unchecked – can
become sources of distraction and/or addiction, and can eventually
lead to vices and even serious sin.
• Entering into romantic relationships is a whole new area that forms
part of the youth’s exciting life. Some enter into relationships
out of curiosity, or the urge to want to experience the surge of
emotions that go with it. Most enter them, however, in order to
divert themselves from other aspects in their lives that make them
feel unloved (e.g. since some do not feel loved in their family).
Others want to feel “whole”, since the brokenness in their family
makes them feel incomplete.
These characteristics play a major part in our YFC’s daily journey. With
sources of brokenness even in their own families, the youth can tend to look
for other sources of affirmation, love, and security outside of the home. As
Couple Coordinators, we need to be aware of these and patiently reach
out to them: mentoring them with parental love and guidance, while at the
ch a p te r 2 21
same time bringing them back into their homes as sources of unity in their
respective families. We can even become the parent-figures of our youth
in the YFC community. In this way, we the YFC CCs become instruments of
joy, love, and peace.
Our tasks as CCs – which will be discussed deeper and further in
Session Two – find its anchor in the Vision of the CFC-YFC community.
Through this vision we will discover our identity as CCs, and we will be able
to appreciate more our role in the lives of the youth.
Rooted in our Vision
A s YFC Couple Coordinators that are part of the greater family of
Couples for Christ, we root ourselves to where our community is being led
by God. Our roles are embedded on our Vision.
Our Vision in Couples for Christ states:
Families in the Holy Spirit, renewing the face of the Earth.
Moved by the Holy Spirit,
One with the Catholic Church,
Blessed to witness Christ’s love and service,
Couples for Christ is a united global community of Family
evangelizers
That sets the world on fire
With the fullness of God’s transforming love.
Our vision in CFC is about relationships. It impels us to be witnesses of
God’s awesome love, and we do that as a family involving the young.
This basically is the direction where we want our YFC to go also. We want
to bring God in the center of the lives of our youth.
Going further, history was made during the second YFC Global
Leaders’ Summit (GLS) held last August 12-14, 2011, at One Esplanade,
Manila, Philippines. It was in this gathering of about 200 YFC leaders and
Couple Coordinators from all over the world that our new YFC Vision was
launched. Rooted in the CFC Vision, this YFC Vision is unique only to our
Ministry.
Our new Vision in Youth For Christ states:
“Young people, being and bringing Christ wherever they are.”
Straightforward yet deep, encompassing and yet personal, our YFC
Vision defines us as Couple Coordinators, and the roles that Christ would
22 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
want us to imbibe. This is strengthened by the YFC Basics, which will
enhance our living out of the YFC Vision, and help us focus on our tasks
as YFC CCs.
YFC Basics
A. The YFC Seven Identities (7 IDs)
Our goal for all our YFC members is to embrace the YFC
Seven Identities (7 IDs), which reflect our original identity of
being sons and daughters of God. We want all our YFCs to carry
these identities, making them their own. These are therefore the
fundamentals that our YFC Manuals are grounded on.
As YFC, we are called to be:
1. Missionary
We gear our YFCs to be missionaries by heart: allowing
them to be true evangelizers, and empowering them to
introduce Christ to everyone. We inspire the youth to make
this their top priority, imbibing it as a need to carry Jesus – His
character and His deeds – through words and actions in their
everyday lives.
2. Source of Unity in the Family
We want all our YFCs to be a source of healing to
whatever brokenness their families might be experiencing.
We want them to be vessels of peace and advocates of love
in promoting better relationships. We want all our YFCs to be
active in their homes: doing their responsibilities and acting
out their roles as members of their own respective families.
3. Model of Excellence
We want our YFCs to be excellent in everything that they
do. We want them to excel in their studies, work, mission, and
in being good sons and daughters in their families. Being a
model of excellence means we give our best and seek to be
our best in every aspect of our life.
4. Single-Minded For God
We want all our YFCs to fix their eyes on Jesus. We see to
it that they choose to live a life of Holiness: living how Jesus
lived, and following His values and acts of kindness.
ch a p te r 2 23
5. 100% Free
We want our YFCs to stand out and choose a lifestyle of
being 100% Free from any vices, illicit behavior, and anything
that may harm their bodies as a temple of the Holy Spirit. We
want them to experience the fullness and beauty of God’s plan
for them as men and women made in His Image and Likeness,
and lovingly molded after His own Heart.
6. Champion of the Poor
We want all our YFCs to be involved with our mission
of building the Church of the Poor through our ANCOP
(Answering The Cry Of the Poor) Program. We want them
to take active part in restoring the dignity of the poor, and
building the hopes, dreams, and future of their less fortunate
brethren.
7. Patriot
We want all our YFCs to be concerned and make an effort
in building up their country. We want them to be aware of the
things that are happening in their society, and exhort them to
reach out to their fellow countrymen as Citizens of God.
B. YFC Four Fundamentals (4 Fs)
Our understanding and affirmation of the young adults need
to be sustained with a clear vision of righteous life. Thus, the YFC
ministry and its varied activities, formation, and fellowship are all
rooted in Christian culture, narrowed down into our unique YFC
Four Fundamentals (4 Fs): Faith, Fun, Freedom and Friendship.
1. Faith
Our Community moves with the Holy Spirit, the same
Spirit that gives the Virtue of Faith. It is the kind of faith that
can move people to trust and believe in the transforming love
of God. That is why we impart this great virtue to the youth.
It is fundamental in our activities because it opens the YFC’s
hearts and minds to believe in and respond to God’s love. Faith
strengthens their desire to discover and know the Lord more
through sessions/talks, worship, prayer meetings, assemblies,
households, and conferences. Faith allows them to see God’s
goodness and plans for their lives, leading them to a closer,
personal relationship with Him.
24 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
2. Fun
The young generation relishes in the atmosphere of Fun.
It is important for the youth to enjoy every aspect of their
life. That is why they invest highly in activities that will allow
them to experience the fulfillment of having fun. Though the
world may present different options and definitions of fun,
YFC opens opportunities for the young to experience fun in a
clean and Spirit–filled way. In this ministry, we allow them to
experience fun through living a life in Christ.
3. Freedom
The youth yearn to be heard, to express themselves, and
to live their lives freely. They want to feel that they have a place
in the world: to stand out and be different. It is at this time that
their individuality is often defined. However, the world teaches
them a different concept of freedom. That is why YFC wants
them to realize True Freedom: one that is liberated from sin,
and living in union with Christ. Our YFC activities encourage
them to develop their capacity for self-reliance through
responsible freedom: a life that is free from any bondage of
selfishness, material attachment, poverty, vices, disturbing
situations, and anything that might destroy their relationship
with God and the people around them.
4. Friendship
Our YFC activities allow the youth to develop and build
genuine friendships, healthy relationships with one another,
and a deeper intimacy with God. Despite doubt, lies, or
insecurities that may build around friendships nowadays, YFC
models the kind of friendship that reflects Jesus Christ, thus
moving them to share His love and generosity to others.
C. YFC Programs
Implementation of YFC activities is done through various
Programs that cater to wherever the youth are found: whether
in the neighborhood or local communities, schools, parishes and
dioceses. These are grouped into 5 YFC Programs, as follows:
1. Community Based Program
“Renewal in Christ through Raising Faith Communities”
is the YFC Community-Based Program’s goal and calling.
The objective of the program is to work towards making the
ch a p te r 2 25
neighborhoods of the youth and the different locales they
interact with to be a better place to live in. The YFC in this
program seek to reach out and partner with the private and
public sectors, as well as with the Parishes and Dioceses, in
order to support the mission of uniting a community through
love, peace, and joy.
2. High School Based Program
The goal of the High School Based Program is to bring Youth
For Christ to Secondary Schools/High Schools, establishing
the Program as a School Club or a Recognized Organization.
This then provides a means of bringing God closer to not only
the students, but to the faculty members, school employees,
and parents who are involved as well. This is done through the
High School Based Program’s thrust of “Bringing God’s High
to the Schools.” It seeks to introduce the ministry as the best
alternative peer environment for the students.
3. Campus Based Program
The vision of the Campus Based Program is to have “A
renewed and united society in Christ through the campuses.”
YFC Campus Based is a program that targets university and
college students in the hope of raising them to become
responsible and Christian servant-leaders in the near future,
and thus renewing the society in general. The Program aims
to motivate the students and the entire campus community
to be committed in living God’s righteousness and holiness
through a life of love and service.
4. TORCH Program
TORCH (TOwards Renewal in CHrist) is the support
program for the children of CFC Mission Core (MC) members
– who are themselves servant-leaders of the CFC Community.
The Program believes that the CFC leaders can “pass on
the torch” of responsibility and service to God and country
to their children. The youth are being prepared to take on
the anointing that their parents received from God. As they
become the front-liners of the YFC Vision, they are seen to
continue the Mission and Vision of Couples For Christ when
their time would come. In this way they could model how a
life ought to be lived, a life that is submitted to God. Hence,
TORCH becomes a real asset and sure foothold for the youth
to be trained and developed as leaders in the other YFC
26 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
programs.
5. YCOM Program
YFC Communications or YCOM is the official
communications arm of Youth for Christ. Together with the
Social Communications Arm (SOCCOM) of Couples for Christ,
its task is to assist the community in spreading God’s word to
its members and to the world, and proclaim God’s greatness in
a creative and powerful way. YCOM pursues creative methods
in sharing the various exciting programs and advocacies
of YFC, developing talent pools and providing pastorally
anchored skills training opportunities in the process.
The Challenge of the Couple Coordinators
E mploying all of the points mentioned above – and combined with
our personal witnessing and the power of the Spirit in our leadership – we
as Couple Coordinators are challenged to guide the young to be imbibed
with:
• A Life of Purpose
There is a deeper meaning to life than just going through it
passively, that God has a mission for every single youth.
• A Life of Passion
The young can embody a great zeal for pursuing this Purpose
that they have defined for their lives.
• A Life of Principle
This means that the life which they committed themselves to
will be lived out righteously and in God’s highest order.
• A Life of Priority
This means that their life is full of Christ-Centered goals and
plans, reflecting how all aspects of life should be anchored on
Christ.
• A Life of Perspective
This means that they are taught to see the “bigger picture” in
everything: praying to look at things the way God would see it.
Conclusion
ch a p te r 2 27
J ose Rizal, a literary genius, the Philippines’ National Hero, and
strongest advocate of the Filipino youth, was famous for stressing in his
writings that the Youth is the Hope of our Future. And true enough; this is
how we see it in our community. The youth will take on the work of building
and bringing this world into God’s hands. Our young generation may be
encountering struggles because of the negative realities surrounding
them, but with our help, they will be empowered and strengthened to
truly shine as sons and daughters of God.
Let us submit our lives and our tasks as Couple Coordinators to Jesus,
who has called us in the first place to understand, affirm, and pastor our
YFC. It is then that we are able to effectively understand more and care more
for young people. We must learn to give as much love, whether we gain
much or receive little love in return. As Couple Coordinators, we believe
that God can work in us and through us. The calling is overwhelming and
beyond our capacity, that is why we put our trust in the Lord. He called us
to this work, and so long as we remain faithful, He will definitely equip us.
Speaker then leads everyone into a prayer and Reflection, exhorting
them to seek God’s Voice in their hearts. After absorbing Session 1, the CCs
should be encouraged to pray to the Lord for the wisdom and courage to take
on God’s Anointing of them as pastors of the young, and to have the strength
and the heart to embrace YFC and surrender everything that they have to
Jesus, even their weaknesses as individuals and failures in their respective
families and personal lives. The Music Ministry plays an appropriate song
(e.g. I Give My All, Refiners’ Fire).
 ch a p te r 2 29

• Pastors of the Young

• Bring The Youth Back To Their Families
• Leaders of The Young To A Future Full Of Hope
• An Advocate Of Loving Others
CHAPTER 2 (Please refer to the Expanded Talk Outline for the explanation of each role.)

CALLED TO BE COUPLE COORDINATORS

Dynamics
Session Two of the Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training
SESSION DYNAMICS 1. Talk Proper. This session will be delivered as a plenary presentation,
and not as a breakout “all-brothers” or “all-sisters” session.
“My deep desire and hope is that I shall never fail in my duty…” (Philippians 1:20) 2. During the part of “Beauty and Passion of Womanhood”, the
speaker will introduce his wife and call her to talk about the roles
Objectives of women in a husband-wife relationship.
3. After this part, she gives the floor back to her husband, and he
For the participants: continues with the talk.
1. To re-visit and reinforce the roles that husbands and wives have 4. Before the conclusion, the speaker calls on three YFCs to share
for each other, and to highlight the importance of the husband their personal experiences of being blessed and helped by their
and wife to team up together and form into a solid pastoral team Couple Coordinators (refer to the Sharers’ Profile for the specifics).
in serving as YFC Couple Coordinators.
5. Continuation of talk.
2. To delve deeper into the general roles and responsibilities of YFC
Couple Coordinators, and introduce the service structure of YFC. 6. The session will end with an open forum.

3. To present the regular annual calendar of YFC activities and the

3-Year Formation Track.

Speaker’s Profile
A model YFC Couple Coordinator who sees the importance of Couple
Coordinators in YFC, and whose wife shares the same views; someone who
understands the YFC structure well, and who implements the YFC cycle of
activities and the 3-year Pastoral Formation Track.

Sharer’s Profile
Wife of the Session Speaker who can share how their roles as husband
and wife apply in their roles as Couple Coordinators in YFC.
Three (3) YFC Members who have experienced the blessing of any of
the roles of the Couple Coordinators:
 ch a p te r 2
CHAPTER 2
CALLED TO BE COUPLE COORDINATORS
Session Two of the Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training
EXPANDED OUTLINE
Introduction
Coming from Session 1, understanding the YFC ministry better helps
us appreciate the service that the Lord has given us. As Couples for Christ,
the Lord entrusted to us His young people; as YFC Couple Coordinators
(CCs), we are given an opportunity to not just mold the present community,
but we are guaranteeing a bright and strong future for the entire CFC
community itself. This is a very exciting challenge, and it gives us even
greater joy to know that as God equips us for this service, our Married Life
will be included and swept along as well. In this Session, we will journey
into our Roles as Husbands and Wives. As we all know, re-visiting and
reinforcing these Roles is certainly a must in order for us to perform our
calling as CCs. These are what we will be bringing as we start our journey
with the youth.
Roles of Husbands and Wives as YFC Couple
Coordinators
B. The Beauty and Passion of Womanhood
Our relationship as partners in this service is not new to us. We take
our roles as parents in our respective families and bring this to the bigger
family of Youth for Christ. In other words, the foundation of our relationship
as partners in service emanates from our relationship as husband and wife.
With this, it is important for us to understand our roles as men and women
of Christ.
A. The Strength and Splendor of Manhood
“God took the man and settled him in the Garden of Eden to
cultivate and take care of it. “ (Genesis 2:15) God anointed man to
look after His kingdom. This means that as men, we are tasked
31
with the following roles:
1. Servant-King
God created men – the husbands – to be leaders and
providers; God placed in their hearts the capacity to build and
make the community flourish and grow.
2. Mighty Warrior
God designed men to be protectors. God equipped them
with the strength to protect the flock that God entrusted to
them, to keep out of the members’ life anything that will keep
Christ out of their hearts.
3. Prudent Mentor
Since the Lord made the husbands to be pastors and
stewards of right and wrong, it is innate in their hearts to be
able to point to the direction of holiness and righteousness,
and bring the members there too. Using all of the experiences
that have led them to where they are right now as husbands
and/or fathers, they are enabled to “walk the talk”: to not just
show the way, but to lead the way, to set a future for the flock
with thought and care and guidance.
4. Faithful Friend
God also intended the husbands to be good companions,
not just leaders or directors. God has enabled them to be
friends to bear burdens with and share joys with.
(Note: The Speaker now introduces his Wife, and she will be the one to give the next
inputs. In between points, she can share about her personal experiences as a wife,
and how she is able to relate to the roles.)
The Lord God said: “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will
make a suitable partner for him.” (Genesis 2:18) Wives are created
with special roles to fulfill in God’s plan. They are an essential part
of what makes the community and the mission grow. As sisters
and wives, we are called to:
1. Be a source of encouragement to the husbands.
As their partners, we take on the role of being with our
husbands in every step of the way. We are witnesses to how
they make decisions for the relationship, and for the family.
32 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
Thus, we are called to encourage them to do the right thing
according to God’s will, to motivate them to keep moving
forward despite their weaknesses and mistakes, to lift them up
in times of defeat, and to honor them in times of victory. Wives
should encourage their husbands to play their leadership
roles as men.
2. Add exceedingly to their strength.
As wives, we have the capacity to strengthen our husbands
with our words. We have the ability to boost their spirit and
inspire their soul. We strengthen them as men when we give
them the opportunity to practice their God-given roles in our
lives, as mentioned for the men earlier.
3. Provide indispensable affirmation.
It is very hard for one person to fully and completely
hear and see God’s direction for our lives and for our area of
service. This is the one task of the husbands wherein we the
wives can give the kind of support that no one else can. In
terms of strong affirmation, wives can give their husbands the
insight that is necessary in addressing the needs of the area,
members, and leadership concerns.
4. Help him connect.
Women have a gift of building relationships. It comes
easier for women to build friendships and open up to people,
while the men are more inclined to deal with the tasks/
operation side of life. Wives can complement the men through
their strength in dealing with emotions and relationships.
(Note: The wife will now give the floor back to her husband.)
General Roles and Responsibilities as Couple
Coordinators
W e have re-visited our specific roles as husbands and wives,
and without a doubt, these will be necessary in our being YFC Couple
Coordinators. We have seen how the partnership at home can be a blessing
to the bigger family of Youth for Christ. Now, as a solid husband-and-wife-
pastoral tandem, we will go deeper and learn our most important roles in
the YFC Ministry. As Couple Coordinators, we are called to:
A. Be Pastors of the Young
ch a p te r 2 33
(“For I have chosen Him, so that He will direct His children
and keep His household after Him to keep the way of the Lord…”
Genesis 18:19)
To pastor the YFC under our care is to ensure their spiritual
growth by strengthening our HOUSEHOLDS with them. The
household is the very basic foundation of the life of a member in
our community. It is where a YFC member can fully grow in his/her
love and relationship with God.
As CCs and also their Household Heads, we ought to pastor
them in the best way possible by inspiring and molding them in
every household meeting they have with us. This is also the best
opportunity for us to know them better: their struggles, desires,
and strengths. This will give us the best advantage to guide them,
lead them and pastor them well.
B. Bring the Youth Back To Their Families
Though we become second parents to them in YFC, as YFC
CCs our role is to bring them back to their families. We do this
by making them appreciate and love the family that they have,
no matter what situation they are in. We are to instill in them the
values of love, respect, obedience and trust for their parents and
siblings.
This role makes us evangelizers as well, especially for non-CFC
parents. By knowing the families of our YFC members, we not only
get to know our members better, but we are given the chance to
develop a special relationship with their parents, and gain their
trust. This is how personal our roles are to them.
C. Be Leaders of the Young To A Future Full Of Hope
YFC members can stay under our care for at least two (2)
to three (3) years before they move on or transition to another
service (e.g. Community-based to Campus/High School-based)
or another ministry (e.g. YFC to Singles For Christ). So for the
meantime that they belong to YFC, it is the only time that we have
to make a difference in their lives. Our guidance of them in their
love lives, career choices, and principles and outlook will prepare
them for their future.
Young as they are, they need to hear from us how to face life.
And when their time would come in crucial decision-making, they
will remember everything that we taught them. We are to build
in them a life of integrity and excellence that is anchored on God.
34 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l ch a p te r 2 35

“Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather
than for men.” – Colossians 3:23). This is how decisive our role is
in leading them to a future full of Hope. As CCs, we constantly
look for opportunities for our YFC members to develop their
careers and talents, guiding them in moving on from one service
to another and transitioning them to SFC according to their needs.
We will also expose them to the bigger of community of CFC.
D. Be an Advocate of Loving Others
More than just our partners and co-missionaries in doing the
work of God, the youth also long for the relationships that they can
gain as they serve in YFC. And so, they need to know that because
God is love, His love should be reflected in our lives. We teach B. Provincial/Country Set-up
them this love through the value of respect, obedience, forgiveness
and humility. Thus, we are called to generally be advocates in The organizational structure of YFC Philippine Missions
loving others by being examples of love ourselves: through our follows the structure of the CFC in the province. The Provincial
relationships with them and our co-Couple Coordinators. Couple Coordinator is the head of YFC. The couple represents YFC
as one of the Family Ministries of the province. Under them is the
Provincial Program Couple Coordinators whose primary role is to
General YFC Organizational Structure see that there is proper implementation of each YFC programs in
the province. Compared to Metro Manila Set-up, the Provincial
T he Organizational Structure of YFC is highly dependent on the CFC Set-up has Provincial Core Coupe Coordinators not sector.
Structure. We follow the CFC flow of leadership starting on our startup
structure which is the Chapter level headed by the Chapter Couple As of now, it is only the YFC Community-based which has
Coordinators and Chapter Youth Heads. The Chapter Couple Coordinators multi-level of coordinators. This means that in the structure, the
is followed above by the Cluster Couple Coordinators then the Program presence of the Couple coordinators up to the Chapter level is
Couple Coordinators (for Metro Manila) or Sector Couple Coordinators highly appreciated and needed to sustain the YFC programs.
(for Philippine Missions). For a full blown structure of YFC Metro Manila
and YFC Philippine Missions, refer to the diagram below.
A. Metro Manila Set-up
The organizational structure of YFC Metro Manila follows the
structure of the CFC Metro Manila. The Over-all Sector Couple
Coordinator is the head of YFC. The couple represents YFC as one
of the Family Ministries of the Sector. Under them is the Sector
Program Couple Coordinators whose primary role is to see that
there is proper implementation of each YFC programs in their
sector. They are the Sector Core Couple Coordinators
As of now, it is only the YFC Community-based which has
multi-level of coordinators. This means that in the structure, the
presence of the Couple coordinators up to the Chapter level is
highly appreciated and needed to sustain the YFC programs.
36 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l ch a p te r 2 37

Note: An attached report focuses in detail on the levels of growth of a province in terms of and lived out by taking active discernments for the future
structure. Any addition/changes that this report entails to the roles and responsibilities of that God has in store him/her; by actively participating in
coordinators in any level will be noted but must be put in the respective training manuals/
the sacraments and in workings of the bigger Church; and
tracks for couple coordinators. (refer to appendix)
by taking a pro-active stand in the issues in the society.

3-Year Pastoral Formation Track B. Areas of Growth

In our pastoral formation, we recognized the different aspects
A fter hearing all the roles that we play as Couple Coordinators, we do
of life that our YFC members are surrounded with. After his/her
self, the family is the next surrounding aspect followed by the
not just simply do the above-mentioned tasks. YFC as a ministry has came
community of Couples for Christ and eventually the society. These
up with a formation track that every YFC member must undergo. The
are aspects where our YFC members play their role – person, family
formation progression, which we call phases of evangelization, lasts for
member (son/daughter), family ministry member, and a citizen.
three years with specific objectives per year. The activities per year also try
to affect the areas of growth of YFC from self to the society. The following 1. Self – This is how a youth member sees himself.
are the summary of the phases of evangelization and the areas of growth
respectively: 2. Family – This is talks about how YFC should relate towards
his family members.
A. Phases of Evangelization
3. Community – This is the relationship of the youth member
The Phases of Evangelization is the general theme of the between the bigger community of CFC and Catholic
foundation for a certain year in the track. YFC ministry sees the Church.
first year as all about knowing the faith. On the second year, it
focuses on deepening the faith and developing it. Lastly, on the 4. Society – This is revolves around the relationship between
third year, we concentrate on living out the faith and putting into the YFC member and to his country.
practice what we have learned. C. Level of Implementation
YEAR 1 – KNOWING THE FAITH All activities except for the Youth Camp should be done at the
• This is the phase when a YFC member starts getting to cluster level.
know God more and is learning to experience belonging D. Formation Progression
to a support community like YFC.
The following is an outlook of the YFC formation with regards
• The youth starts getting to know their own family more in to the Phases of Evangelization and the areas of growth of the YFC.
the light of Christian values and principles. (See 3-year Formation Track Brief Explanation in Annex C).
• They start being open to the idea that loving the poor is
YEAR 3
an expression of loving God. Areas of YEAR 1 YEAR 2
Living out the
Growth Knowing the faith Deepening the faith
Faith
YEAR 2 – DEEPENING THE FAITH
• This is the phase where a YFC is called to a deeper DISCOVERY CAMP
VOCATION
YOUTH CAMP (weekend activity)
relationship with God by taking a more active role in the SELF
(weekend activity) 1 year after Youth
RECOLLECTION
family and by taking faith a step higher by exemplifying (whole day)
Camp
excellence in studies and living a 100% Free life.
YEAR 3 – LIVING OUT THE FAITH
• This is the phase where a YFC’s conviction is strengthened
38 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l ch a p te r 2 39

International Leaders’ Conference

FAMILY CULTURE
PARENT’S April SHOUT
SHOUT
SHOUT SHOUT
SHOUT
(whole day) BEST WEEKEND Mission Trips Mission
FAMILY LIFE HONORING Mission Trips Mission Trips Mission Trips
3 months after (weekend activity) Execom Trips
(evening activity) HPV Weekend
Covenant Orientation Training
May
Provincial Youth Conference (PM)

COVENANT Cluster Highschool

Campus Fresh
ORIENTATION CHURCH & Heads Level-
Freshmen Care
High
COMMUNITY 100% FREE June Up Training Club-selling
(whole day) Sacraments
LIFE (whole day)
3 months after Youth (half day activity)
Provincial Youth Conference (PM)
Camp
Chapter
Heads’
STAKE FOR THE Y AD July Overnight
YOUTH POWER
SOCIETAL NATION (Whole day)
(whole day) Provincial Youth Conference (PM)
(half day Activity) Couple Coordinator’s Conference
YCOM
*while some modules must be conducted in a specific time frame (e.g. Covenant Orienta- Academy
August
tion which should happen 3 months after the Youth Camp), others are left to the discretion
Couple Coordinator’s Conference
of the Cluster Couple Coordinators and their youth heads, provided that they fall under the
September Sector Conference (MM)
specific year of the youth’s membership in YFC.
October Regional Youth Conference/ Metrocon
Parish
Cycle of Activities November
Priest Day
December

Y FC as a ministry has the following cycle of activities. Other country (For a more detailed description of each activity, a per program orientation can be given
can have other cycle of activities in different programs depending on the to have better comprehension.)
start of the academic year. As for the monthly cycle of activities, this is
highly encouraged to all areas. B. Monthly Cycle of Activities
A. YFC Annual Cycle of Activities Aside from the major activities, YFC has a monthly activity
(which can be replaced to give way to the major activities). The
The Annual Cycle of Activities is a line-up of activities that
monthly activities of an area should include a chapter assembly,
concerns the YFC members. The leaders in the area can include the
2 regular households, a leaders gathering, a program training (if
important activities in a year according to the existing programs.
there is a need for the programs to coordinate), and a recollection
The table presented below is a sample annual cycle of activities of
(it it is needed). The leaders of the area can decide the sequence
a full grown YFC.
and flow of the area monthly cycle of activities. YFC realized that
for youth formation to be effective, it should be frequent and
Community Campus High School TORCH
Month
Based Based Based
YCOM consistent. The table presented below is a sample monthly activity
of YFC.
January
Campus Tour
Week Activity
February TORCH Assembly
Campus Year-
Homecoming 1st Chapter Assembly
March HH Meeting
end
2nd Leaders’ Assembly
40 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l

3rd HH Meeting
4th Program Training
(For a more detailed concept of conducting a HH Meeting, Chapter Assembly, and Leaders’
Assembly see Annex D, E, and F respectively.)

Conclusion CHAPTER 2
CONDUCTING ONE-ON-ONES WITH THE
The Lord has brought YFC to greater heights since 1993. A lot of
programs have developed and people who have grown deeper to Christ. YOUTH
We have heard our scope of service and everything that this service
Workshop One of the Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training
demands. Let us not be consumed of everything that we have seen and
heard. Let us allow God to help us in this great mission that He has called WORKSHOP DYNAMICS
us to do.
Objectives
For the participants:

1. To learn how to live out their role of being pastors to the young
through regular one-on-ones with the YFC members.
2. To learn the proper way of having one-on-ones with the youth.

Dynamics
1. Mini Pastoral Talk
• This Mini Pastoral Talk is given as an exhortation and overview
of the “Spirit behind” conducting one-on-ones. The following
talk points are given as a guide in the exhortation:
Talk Points:
οο Our Role as Pastors to the young
-- a privilege
-- an opportunity
οο One-on-one is our tool as Pastors to the Young
-- an opportunity to know our YFC more
-- an opportunity to guide them and support
them
-- an opportunity to love and pray for them
42 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l ch a p te r 2 43

2. Workshop Proper: Triad Workshop with YFC; he must be able give concrete examples of his encounters with
• The speaker instructs the participants to group themselves in the youth during one-on-one.
threes (3).
οο One YFC + two (2) CCs (if YFC are available)
οο Or three (3) CCs (if no YFC can join the workshop)
• Each person in the triad will be assigned to play the following
roles:
οο YFC member
οο CC giving the one-on-one
οο CC as Observer
• YFC members (either real YFC or CCs assigned to act as YFC)
will be given certain situations or experiences that they will
share to the CCs in-charge of giving them one-on-one. (See
Situations for One-on-Ones in Annex D)
• The observer will write down comments and take note of
inputs that he/she has observed as he/she listens to the mock
one-on-one.
• When the allotted time for the mock one-on-ones is finished,
the speaker will ask volunteers from the triads to share based
on the following criteria:
οο YFC will share how the CC handled him/her.
οο CC will share how he/she handled the YFC.
οο Observer will share his/her observations from the
one-on-ones.
• After the sharing, the Speaker proceeds in presenting the
proper way of conducting one-on-ones in YFC.
2. Basic Guidelines in Conducting One-on-ones with the Youth (must
be with PowerPoint presentation)
3. Closing Prayer

Speaker’s Profile

A CFC brother (preferably a CC) of good pastoral integrity who has had
many experiences of One-on-Ones in the community, but more importantly
 ch a p te r 2 45

1. Schedule the one-on-one at least a week before the actual date.

2. Pray and discern God’s direction for the one-on-one.
A. Personal Life
B. Family Life
CHAPTER 2 C. School Life
CONDUCTING ONE-ON-ONES WITH THE D. Prayer Life
YOUTH E. Love Life
Workshop One of the Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training F. Service Life
WORKSHOP OUTLINE 3. Advise youth on the topic of the one-on-one so that he/she can
also pray for leading, revelation.
Basic Guidelines in Conducting One-on-ones with
the Youth 4. Set up the one-on-one in an appropriate venue at an appropriate
time.

As CCs, we need to have a constant one-on-one with our YFC

A. Appropriate venue – a place where both parties can discuss
with ease and comfort; a quiet, private place.
mission-partners. Chapter Couple Coordinators have their Chapter Youth
Heads with which they need to have one-on-ones with, Cluster Couple -- preferably at home of either party
Coordinators have their Cluster Youth Heads, Sector Couple Coordinators
have their Sector Youth Heads, Program Couple Coordinators have their -- free from disturbances, phone calls
Program Youth Heads, Provincial Couple Coordinators have their Provincial B. Appropriate time – both parties free at this time, no pressing
Youth Heads/Mission Volunteers/Fulltime Pastoral Workers, and Over- appointments that may disrupt free flow of discussion.
all Sector Couple Coordinators have their Over-all Sector Youth Heads/
Mission Volunteers/Area Fulltime Pastoral Workers to take care. 5. The one-on-ones should be conducted by the CFC Couple
Coordinator Brother to YFC Brother and CFC Couple Coordinator
Our YFC Youth Heads have been given the anointing to conduct one- Sister to YFC Sister.
on-ones to the YFC members under their stewardship. However, situations
may arise wherein the YFC leader cannot handle the YFC member’s pastoral
concern that has been brought up during their one-on-one (e.g. serious On the day of the One-on-One
family problems, grave sins). It is during this time that the YFC leader needs
1. The Couple Coordinator conducting the one-on-one should be at
to endorse that certain YFC member to his Couple Coordinator, and the CC
the venue fifteen (15) minutes prior or exactly at the agreed time.
will be the one to have a one-on-one with that YFC.
2. As soon as the youth arrives and settles down, the Couple
Hence, the guidelines below are used for conducting regular one-on-
Coordinator should start the one-on-one.
ones with our youth.1
3. Have a short opening prayer, ensuring the atmosphere of trust,
Prior to the One-on-One openness, honesty and wisdom.
4. State the purpose/direction of the one-on-one. Since one-on-
1 There is also a special/guided process of one-on-ones given to the youth whenever ones are done regularly, the primary purpose is to check up on
special concerns/issues are encountered. For this, refer to the Special One-on-Ones Workshop of the the life of the youth, and to get to know them on a deeper level.
Three Year Couple Coordinator’s Training Track.
46 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l ch a p te r 2 47

5. Initiate the first question. However, in the ensuing discussion the
Couple Coordinator should be more of a listener: trying to absorb
as much of what the youth is trying to say.
6. Throughout the one-on-one, the Couple Coordinator should
ensure understanding by summarizing the sharing of the youth.
7. The Couple Coordinator should mentally take note of pastoral
issues that need to be discussed more incisively. An action plan to
address the pastoral issues raised must be discussed.
8. The Couple Coordinator summarizes points shared, including
actions agreed on for pastoral issues. He then asks if there are
additional points that the youth may have missed or wishes to ask.
9. The Couple Coordinator closes with a short prayer of thanksgiving
and empowerment.
Post One-on-One Guidelines
1. One-on-one dialogue between the Couple Coordinator and youth
leader should be scheduled every quarter. The entire dialogue
may take a maximum of two (2) hours.
2. For succeeding one-on-ones, the Couple Coordinator should refer
to outputs from the previous one-on-one.
3. The Couple Coordinator should follow through with the youth
action points of the one-on-one in between the scheduled
sessions.
(Note: CCs should also conduct one-on-ones with their co-Couple Coordinators to
check on their service related roles.)
4. Taking down notes while the one-on-one is ongoing is not an
option as this can intimidate the youth and affect the openness with
which the sharing is being made. If the CC really has a complete
and absolute need to take down notes, a careful explanation and
expressed permission needs to be asked first from the youth.
5. The CC should take care that the one-on-one not fall into a
corporate “by-the-book interview” versus personal tone. This is
still a personal sharing, and the points above are just given for
guidance.
Conclusion
O ne-on-ones are a major source of joy for Couple Coordinators and
youth alike. It gives way to not just a stronger service relationship in the
mission, but a fuller and nourishing love and friendship as well. As has been
previously stated in Session One, our community is all about relationships
after all. As Couple Coordinators, let us pray for the grace and humility to
become the Lord’s mouthpieces as He reaches out to His youth. We may
be good conversationalists or not, but so long as we continue to be open
to be used by the Lord, the victory will always belong to Him in the end.
(Speaker ends with a Closing Prayer of thanksgiving and empowerment)

Tips for the Couple Coordinator

1. The Couple Coordinator should coach/facilitate the youth to
articulate/express one’s self. Practice active listening techniques –
asking follow-up questions, paraphrasing.
2. The Couple Coordinator’s goal should be more of knowing the
youth better through what is being shared, more than giving
corrections, or reprimanding.
3. One should have a mental picture of the key points of the sharing,
especially those items with pastoral implications.
 ch a p te r 2 49

Speaker’s Profile
A YFC Cluster Youth Head or a very experienced YFC Chapter leader
(whether in Community based, High School based or Campus based),
one who has already led a Prayer Meeting (be it a Chapter Assembly for
Community based, Club Meeting for High School based, and/or Prayer
CHAPTER 2 Meeting for Campus based); also, the Youth Head must have a good
working relationship with his/her Couple Coordinators, and particularly
LEADING A PRAYER MEETING one who has no difficulty in relating to and communicating with Couple
Coordinators.
Workshop Two of the Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training
WORKSHOP DYNAMICS Or a Couple Coordinator (preferably a Chapter Couple Coordinator
or High School based Program Coordinator or Campus based Program
Rationale Coordinator) who has a very good experience in overseeing and leading
Prayer Meetings, someone who is immersed in YFC and who has a good
working relationship with his/her Youth Heads as well.
T he Prayer Meeting is one of the most concrete and intimate venues
where one can experience the greatness of Christ’s love. It is where personal
stories, realizations, and God’s messages are brought to life. Prayer
meetings are held regularly to sustain the continuity and consistency of
a member’s growth towards Christ. The presence of Couple Coordinators
(CCs) in these prayer meetings is a must, for a YFC activity without CCs are
like children without parents. But more than overseers, CCs also need to
be on the ground and provide hands-on support for the YFC leaders who
are spearheading the prayer meetings. Thus, this Workshop is designed to
equip the CCs with the knowledge and skill in understanding and ultimately
leading a Prayer Meeting.

Objectives
1. To see the importance of Prayer Meetings in the mission of YFC.
2. To understand the basic elements of a Prayer Meeting.
3. To give a background on how it is to lead a Prayer Meeting.

Dynamics
(Note: This is a plenary workshop)

1. Talk Proper
2. Workshop Proper: Mock Prayer Meeting
3. Sharing
4. Open Forum
 ch a p te r 2
CHAPTER 2
LEADING A PRAYER MEETING
Workshop Two of the Basic Couple Coordinators’ Training
WORKSHOP OUTLINE
Introduction
P rayer meetings create a venue for the youth to intimately experience
the reality of God’s love through fun, freedom, friendship, and faith. It is a
venue where God will allow us Couple Coordinators (CCs) to personally see
how God has been working in the lives of our youth, giving us a chance to
witness the progress of growth in their faith. As Couple Coordinators, it is
our responsibility to work hand-in-hand with our Youth Heads in leading
our members into a Jesus-experience in these meetings. Therefore it is
highly important for us to know and fully understand what it means to lead
a Prayer Meeting.
Elements of a Prayer Meeting
A Prayer Meeting is a regular monthly gathering of all members of
a YFC Chapter, Club, or Organization. The prayer meeting is conducted
as a Chapter Assembly (for Community Based), a General Assembly (for
High School Based), and a Prayer Meeting (for Campus Based). Certain
YFC leaders spearhead these prayer meetings throughout the different
programs, namely: the Chapter Youth Heads together with the Chapter
CCs for Community based Chapter Assemblies, the YFC Vice President (VP)
for Evangelization with the assistance of the YFC High School Program
Volunteer (HPV) and YFC Club Moderator for High School based General
Assemblies, and the YFC Executive Vice President (EVP) with the assistance
of the YFC Campus Program Volunteer (PV) for Campus based Prayer
Meetings.
In order to create a successful prayer meeting, one must consider the
following elements:
51
A. Relationships
The prayer meeting is a venue for everyone to build and nurture
relationships. It is an opportunity for the participants to meet new
people and establish friendships. This can be done through group
discussions, games, or icebreakers that can create an atmosphere
of fun, trust, and sincerity with each other. At the same time, this is
also the chance for the CCs to get to know the YFC members that
they are taking care of, and to establish friendships with other CCs.
The prayer meeting leader is encouraged to have a good
relationship with the people attending the meeting, along with
the other friendly YFC leaders and CCs.
B. Worship
As CCs, it is important for us to see to it that the presence
of God is experienced and felt in every meeting, and worship is
the time when people have the opportunity to come into God’s
presence. In YFC, we stress the need and opportunity for each
member to experience and grow in faith, and worship greatly aids
in this. In worship, each person gets to personally experience the
love and faithfulness of Christ. In prayer meetings, it is important
that the YFC worship leader be able to exhort and bring everyone
into a prayerful atmosphere.
C. Talk/Activity
The talk or the activity is the gist of the prayer meeting: it is
the reason why we are having an assembly in the first place, and
it contains the whole message of that particular prayer meeting. It
is important that this will be delivered in an understandable way.
For chapter assemblies, the topics are taken from the Chapter
Assembly Topic Manual, while for the Collective Household
Assembly topics can be taken from the Household Topic Manual.
D. Sharing
The sharing is conducted to enhance the message of the
prayer meeting. This will help the listeners understand and capture
the points. It is encouraged that sharers are YFC members so that
the listeners can easily relate with the message. Sharers usually
convey stories about their life experiences and the victory of God
in those moments. Their experiences support a point or the main
topic of the assembly.
During the prayer meeting, the team can prepare two sharers
52 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
and encourage more on the day itself. For those who are on-the-
spot sharers, the service team should listen first to the story of the
sharer before allowing them to share in front.
E. Processing
This is when the team leader connects all the parts of the
prayer meeting – from the worship, to the talk/activity, and to the
sharing. This element is important because it gives the participants
a good grasp of God’s message throughout the entire activity. It
makes them fully understand and teaches them how to apply in
their lives everything that they learned in the meeting.
Prayer Meeting Sample Program
Duration of prayer meetings usually differ per area. Usually, it has a
duration of two (2) to four (4) hours. During that time, it is important that
one should know the following elements of the program:
οο Set-up one (1) hour
οο Gathering/Teaching of Songs (30 mins)
οο Exhortation & Worship (20 mins)
οο Talk/Activity (45 mins)
οο Sharings (30 mins)
οο Summary/Closing Prayer (10 mins)
The Prayer Meeting Leader
(Note: For purposes of the Mock Prayer Meeting later, the roles of the Prayer Meeting Leader
are discussed.)
The Prayer Meeting Leader is important in the over-all success of the
activity. He should be able to:
οο Welcome the participants as they arrive at the venue, making sure
that they are at ease and comfortable in being part of the meeting
οο Facilitate the entire activity by being the emcee of the assembly
and tying one segment to the next
οο Process the topic, the sharings, and the exhortation to the worship
in order to give the members a good grasp of the topic
ch a p te r 2 53
οο Exhort the crowd to be eager and excited of the activity by bringing
them into God’s presence
As he conducts his roles, it is important that he is also able to acquire
the following characteristics:
A. People Oriented
It is good for the prayer meeting leader to know what works
best for the members. He should know what it is that they would
be interested in, in order to keep things fun and entertaining for
them in the prayer meeting. He should also be in touch of what the
members may be generally experiencing or feeling at the moment
in order to better tailor-fit talks and processing points.
B. Inspiring
The prayer meeting leader is the one that leads people to
be in the presence of God. Therefore, he must be able to excite
the crowd into preparing themselves to listen to God’s personal
message for them. He can do this by sharing personal experiences
or inspiring stories that can be related to the topic, for he can then
use this as a starting point for discussing the topic.
C. Attentive
The prayer meeting leader should be the most attentive in
the gathering. He needs to listen to sharers, speakers, and to the
prophetic messages, mainly because God’s Word can be seen
in different parts of the assembly. He then connects all of God’s
messages heard throughout the prayer meeting. The prayer
meeting leader can carry a pen and paper in order to immediately
catch what the Lord is trying to say in every activity.
Important Considerations
As one plans a Prayer Meeting, it is important to take note of the
following:
1. The ideal seating arrangement in an assembly is square or oval
where everyone can hear the speaker in front.
2. Avoid having the participants face the door or window so that
they won’t get distracted by the people entering/passing by, or by
the things going on outside the venue.
3. Gathering songs are intended to gather members. No matter how
54 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l

many people are already there during the prayer meeting, the
Music Ministry should start singing or teaching songs the moment
a participant has already arrived.

Conclusion
CHAPTER 2
The Lord has given us the privilege of introducing Christ and the MOCK PRAYER MEETING
culture of YFC to our members. He has equipped us with the basic skills
and knowledge in order to carry out this exciting task. As CCs now ready
to go on mission, let us strive to be consistent and effective in our prayer
meetings, knowing that all our efforts will help bring our members closer
to Christ.
T he Mock Prayer Meeting is conducted in order for the CCs to get a
good grasp and idea of what transpires throughout the whole activity. The
goal is for them to learn how to handle the prayer meeting, understand
how the members may feel or react during the event, and have awareness
on the various skills and tips that they need to work on. As the service team
conducts this, it is important to take note of the following guidelines:
1. All the CC participants will act as the service team of the Mock
Prayer Meeting, while the service team will act as participants.
2. The Speaker will assign a CC brother participant to be the team
leader of the mock prayer meeting.
3. From there, the mock prayer meeting team leader will decide
on what assignment he/she will give to the other participants:
speaker, secretariat, program, sharer, emcee, logistics, etc.
4. The participants are given twenty (20) to thirty (30) minutes to
prepare.
5. After thirty (30) minutes, they will start the mock assembly. The
service team, acting as participants, may take on certain roles
throughout the event. The roles portray different kinds of attitudes
that members may display throughout a Prayer Meeting (e.g. the
shy one, the one that’s too loud, the one that’s bored etc.).
6. The mock assembly runs for twenty (20) minutes. It is expected
that all the elements of the Prayer Meeting – as discussed earlier –
would be present, and the suggested schedule of a typical Prayer
Meeting is followed.
7. The service team should observe how the participants are
conducting the event.
56 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l

8. After the mock assembly, the speaker can ask at least two (2) to
three (3) participants to share.
9. The speaker will then give specific inputs, observations, and
suggestions, about the activity.

ANNEX A
SAMPLE PROBLEM TREE AND SAMPLE
SOLUTION TREE

Sample Problem Tree

Sample Solution Tree


ANNEX B
100% FREE CONCEPT PAPER
Rationale
Purity and chastity have always been the values that we aim to uphold
as Christians. However, this has been an issue for the youth, especially
because of the fast-paced, rapidly changing lifestyle today. The views and
stands that the new generation is being taught about purity and chastity
are either lacking or distorted in information.
As Youth for Christ, we always seek to put our name into a lifestyle
as we try to live out the 7 YFC IDs. In every aspect of our lives, the aim
should be to become witnesses of God’s transforming love to millions of
our fellow youth who wish to experience the same. Thus said, one of the
identities of Youth for Christ is to live a 100% free lifestyle.
Although our previous 100% Pure program has been effective for a
time, with schools and parishes wanting to know more about it, comments
have arisen regarding the old program’s terminologies, technicalities
and approach. The 100% Pure Principles have been said to be too
condemning, harsh, or rigid. Thus, a new approach and a new name is
formed, the concept of 100% Free. Below is a fleshed out overview of this
newly repackaged YFC identity- 100% Free.
What is 100% Free?
M ore than just being an advocacy, 100% Free is our IDENTITY as
Youth For Christ members. This is our response to the bigger conviction
of Couples for Christ called PRO-LIFE. This identity anchors on the verse:
“For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to
the yoke of slavery.” Galatians 5:1
a n n ex b 59
Christ intends for us to be free, but this world has a different meaning
of freedom. It is a common notion to associate freedom with the thought
of doing anything that we would want to do. The world has placed real
Freedom in a negative light. As children of God, we use the freedom that
He Himself has given us to achieve our main purpose of loving, honoring,
and serving Him.
Therefore, 100% Free is defined as:
A. Living in the Fullness of Life (Promise)
This means experiencing the life that we are meant to live
as Christians, full of joy, love, and freedom. It means fulfilling the
great plan that God has set out for us, living in the light of His love.
It means being who we are meant to be.
B. Breaking from Bondage (Decision)
This means removing the chains of sin. This means living our
lives free from guilt, temptation, addiction, masks, negativity,
bad labels, and insecurities. This means removing all barriers or
hindrances from being with God.
C. Advocating Life (Conviction)
100% Free essentially means living a great life, and this is
what we want everyone to know and fight for. 100% Free means
that every child of God should experience this as well. We pass on
this knowledge of freedom and help others to free themselves.
Therefore, we, as Youth for Christ, fight the right to live this great
life planned by God for us.
In other words, we proclaim: BE FREE. BREAK FREE. LIVE FREE.
The Free Life
It takes effort, courage, and the ability to be steadfast in one’s
decision in order to maintain and continue being 100% Free. Our 100%
Free Identity stands on THREE basic principles and made firm by EIGHT
conviction statements. Living the free life allows us to be:
A. Free to Live
Free to Live stands by the conviction statements that support
taking care of our own bodies. It is a principle discouraging
substance abuse that can lead to not only an unhealthy lifestyle,
60 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
but also to sin. The following are the Conviction Statements that
champion this principle:
1. Zero Drugs – YFC says no to substance/drug abuse.
2. Smoke Free – YFC says no to smoking.
3. 0% Alcohol – YFC believes that drinking alcohol is not
a sin in itself. But young as we are, our bodies could not
handle and/or control alcoholic content. YFC believes in
practicing self-control and clean fun. YFC stands by the
fact that we don’t have to drink alcoholic beverages and
get drunk in order to experience fun.
B. Free to Be
Free to Be stands by the conviction statements that uphold
being who we really are, both in name and in essence. This means
living out our true selves and who we are made to be. It encourages
living out the roles of a man and woman, in accordance to God’s
plan. The following are the Conviction Statements that champion
this principle:
1. Pure Inside and Out – YFC believes not only in the purity
of our bodies per se but also purity at our very core. We
believe in purity of thought, speech, and action. Our hearts
and minds are the core of our being and it is important
that these be free from negativity and lustfulness. This
means YFC discourages physical self-gratification, and
avoids green jokes and swearing.
2. 100% Man and Woman – YFC believes that God has
created specific roles for us as men and women. YFC
believes that we are designed to be man and woman in
order to live with each other and work together for His
purpose. We encourage the youth to live their identities
as they were created, either as man or woman. We are also
taught to help our brothers and sisters that are having
trouble in realizing their identity in God’s plan.
3. Free from Pornography – YFC believes that our bodies
are created sacred by God and should not be exploited
for selfish pleasure. YFC believes that minds are powerful
cultivators of our actions and thus should be free
from lustful/malicious thoughts that are promoted in
pornographic materials.
a n n ex b 61
C. FREE to LOVE
Free to Love stands by the basic principles of upholding the
genuine kind of love that the Lord has given us. This means loving
the way that God has taught us, unconditional and unfailing. This
means believing in the kind of love that is learned, experienced,
and given in God’s time. This means that we don’t have to enter
into a romantic relationship to feel the genuine and real kind of
love. And as sons and daughters of God, we have the ability to
give real love. The following are the Conviction Statements that
champion this principle:
1. Virgin and Proud – YFC believes that sex is a sacred gift
given by God, a gift that is appropriate only for marriage/
the Sacrament of Matrimony. YFC believes that sex in
essence is used for Pro-Creation. And thus being virgin
and proud means having dignity and integrity. It means
loving yourself and experiencing the kind of love that
is not just bound by physical intimacy. Being virgin and
proud goes beyond technical and physical virginity, which
only relies on its definition.
This also means that we, as Youth for Christ, should
not engage in pre-marital sex. YFC believes that sex is a
gift intended only for pro-creation between two mature
adults, joined by God in marriage.
2. Real Love Waits – Real love is defined as the genuine
kind of love that comes as a GIFT from God. Like a gift,
it should be made precious; taken cared off, and received
in its proper time. YFC believes that special romantic
relationships are examples of this kind of gift. Thus, we
believe in the essence of waiting, as we prepare ourselves
to receive this Gift in His perfect time.
While waiting for the right time and at our age, we
as YFC should focus our time, love, and devotion on
our relationships with parents, friends, and siblings first.
YFC believes that our age is the time to build lasting
relationships with these loved ones, and not lead us to
be isolated from them because of early and premature
romantic relationships.
 a n n ex c
ANNEX C
3-YEAR PASTORAL FORMATION TRACK
OVERVIEW
YFC seeks to empower the YFC members through pastoral formation,
which will help them in their spiritual growth and nourishment. We in
the YFC ministry also acknowledge the fact that our members need to
grow not only in their personal relationship with God, but also in their
relationship with their family, friends, the community, and the society
where they belong in.
Summary of Formation Tracks
More so, YFC believes that intense pastoral support is needed by the
members not just in the first year of their membership, but all throughout
their YFC life. Because of this, YFC sought to create a pastoral formation
track that will assist them in their gradual growth as sons and daughters
of God. Hence, the 3-Year Pastoral Formation Track for YFC general
membership.
The 3-Year Pastoral Formation (PF) Track is the pastoral module of
Youth For Christ that is given to every single member, regardless of area or
program of service. It is composed of twelve (12) modules, starting with a
Youth Camp, the entry point to YFC.
Phases of Evangelization
T he 3-Year Pastoral Formation (PFO) Track caters to three (3)
Phases of Evangelization, which represent the number of years of the YFC
membership.
YEAR 1 – KNOWING THE FAITH
• This is the phase where a YFC starts getting to know God more
and experiences belonging in a support community like YFC.
63
• He starts to get to know his family more in the light of Christian
values and principles.
• He starts being open to the idea that loving the poor is an
expression of loving God.
YEAR 2 – DEEPENING THE FAITH
• This is the phase where a YFC is called to a deeper relationship
with God by taking a more active role in the family, and by
taking faith a step higher through exemplifying excellence in
studies and living a 100% Free life.
YEAR 3 – LIVING OUT THE FAITH
• This is the phase where a YFC’s conviction is strengthened and
lived out by taking active discernments for the future, actively
participating in the sacraments and workings of the bigger
Catholic Church, and by taking a pro-active stand on issues in
the society.
YEAR 1
A. YOUTH CAMP
The Youth Camp is the entry point into YFC. It is a 2-day
and 2-night weekend activity that introduces the youth to a
new life in Christ through YFC, founded in God’s ultimate love
for them. This will start their journey as a YFC member, and will
open new and exciting opportunities for them to grow in their
personal relationship with God.
• The Revised Youth Camp Manual (2011 Edition) features
a more extensive explanation of the Youth Camp: its
compositions, activities and sessions. It will address the
question “How is the Youth Camp conducted… really?” and
will lay down the principles behind its activities, doing
away with the practices that is not really part of our culture
but have nevertheless been done over the years.
• This includes new handbooks for the Team Leaders,
Facilitators, and Prayer Warriors.
64 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l a n n ex c 65

B. COVENANT ORIENTATION
The Covenant Orientation (CO) is the Pastoral Formation
Track that lays down our commitments as YFC members, as
shown in the YFC Covenant Card.
F.
Objectives:
• Learn and understand the covenant of a CFC Youth
for Christ member.
• Renew and deepen our commitment to Christ by
understanding and following our covenant with Him.
G. 100% FREE
• Develop a sense of identity and responsibility in
our role as a believer of the Catholic Faith and as a
member of our church, our family, our community
and our country.
• Inspire the youth to mature in their Christian life
through YFC.
• Live out the covenant of YFC through the pastoral
formation and activities.
H. STAKE FOR THE NATION
C. FAMILY CULTURE
This is a whole day activity, given in a YFC member’s first
year. It allows our YFC members to appreciate different family
cultures, thus encouraging them to appreciate their own
family. This appreciation moves them to start praying for each
of their own family members.
YEAR 3
D. YOUTH POWER
I.
This is a whole-day activity, given in a YFC member’s first
year. It focuses on YFC’s response to the social dimension of
the gospel, which is to love others, especially the poor. It brings
awareness to the youth that this is part of our expression of
our love for God.
YEAR 2
J.
E. DISCOVERY CAMP
The Discovery Camp is the 1st pastoral formation track on
the members’ 2nd year in YFC. It is given one year after the
Youth Camp. This talks more extensively about the different
aspects of a YFC’s life and shows the YFC Christian way of
dealing with these aspects. It also serves to refresh the YFC
members of their Youth Camp experience the year before. This
activity aims to bring them to a deeper level of commitment
to God, to YFC, and to their households.
PARENTS’ HONORING NIGHT
This is an evening activity, given in a YFC member’s second
year. This is a fellowship activity, which gives the YFC members
a chance to appreciate their parents and vocally honor them
in front of others.
This is a whole-day activity, given in a YFC member’s
second year. This is a launching of the 100% Free concept,
coming from the previous 100% Pure advocacy. It is an
overview of all the repackaged Principles and Advocacies that
is now 100% Free, given in a creative and comprehensible
manner. It is, all in all, encouraging the YFC into aiming and
advocating a life that is free from the bondage of sin and the
lures of the world.
This is a half-day activity, given in a YFC member’s second
year. This pastoral formation highlights the highest calling
of every YFC: being a student. It makes them see that their
education is a gift, moving them to strive harder to be the best
student for the Lord.
VOCATION RECOLLECTION
This is a whole day activity, which gives the YFC members
a venue to appreciate the different vocations, and perceive
God’s personal calling for them. It is given in a YFC member’s
third year. This moves them to start discerning and praying for
God’s personal purpose and plan for their lives.
BEST WEEKEND
This is an overnight activity given to a YFC member who is
in the third year of the YFC formation track. It is a Father-son
and Mother-daughter bonding activity.
This activity reinforces the YFC’s role in the family as they
66 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l

enter into a camp with their own father/mother. It is a great

venue for bonding and sharing between the father and his son
and between the mother and her daughter. This is also seen as
an evangelistic experience as well for the parents who are not
yet members of CFC.
K. CHURCH AND SACRAMENTS ANNEX D
This is a whole-day, immersion-type activity, given in a
YFC member’s third year. It is a venue for the YFC to further THE YFC HOUSEHOLD TOPIC MANUAL
appreciate their faith through our relationship with the bigger
Catholic Church.
GUIDE
L. Y-AD (Youth Advocate)
This is a whole-day activity, given in a YFC member’s third The What
year. It is an activity where YFCs will learn how to make active
stands as YFC in the society. This teaches them to translate T he Household is the basic unit in the structure of Youth for Christ.
their Christian ideals and values into concrete advocacies, This is the avenue where YFC members get to experience the greatness
moving them to fight for what they believe in. of Christ’s amazing love on a peronal level as they share with one another
their struggles and victories, tragedies and triumphs, and realization in
every aspect of their lives. Trust is built as they open their minds and hearts
to their fellow household members. It is also a place for the members
to deepen their relationship with God through prayer, worship, and in
listening to His’ messages for them. There are usually 4-7 members in one
Household group.

As we lead our respective Households, it is important for us to remeber

the following guidelines:

1. To have more openness, understanding and better handling, it is

ideal that the household of the brothers be separated from that of
the sisters, with a brother and a sister leading respectively.
2. Households are conducted twice every month, apart from the
regular meeting of the Chapter, depending on the availability of
the members.
3. Ideally, a Household is finalized right after its members finishes
the Youth Camp.

The Purpose

T his manual is designed to further affirm the value of fun, friendship,

freedom and faith. It aims to provide sutable topics and activities, so that
68 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l a n n ex d 69

every Household will become a place of nourishment and fellowship 3 Year Household Prayer Meeting Topics
for the members as they grow and tread the path of a good and happy
Christian life. However, in order to fully maximize this manual, the readers YEAR 1 YEAR 2 YEAR 3
must have already undergone the Household Leaders’ Training (HLT). ATTRACTION SUSTAINABILITY EMPOWERMENT
MISSIONARY
The How FEEL LIKE JESUS THINK LIKE JESUS LIVE LIKE JESUS
Topic 1: You’re Invited Topic 24: Exchange Gift Topic 47: It’s not about
This manual contains topic outlines that will guide us in the delivery (Eagerness to be part of the
activities of our community)
(Openness to learn new
things)
me
(Total Reliance on God)
of our chosen topic. Each outline consists of the following elements:
Topic 2: When I’m with
Topic 48: Win
you Topic 25: Send Me
WHAT IN THE WORLD! OH, I SEE… (Courage and Boldness
(Living out the joy of prayer (Servanthood)
to proclaim God’s Word)
This is the topic stated in a simple yet catchy and worship)
Title
phrase. Topic 26: Mission
The is the main lesson that we want to impart Topic 3: Take my hand Possible Topic 49: Tell the World
Value (Trusting Others) (Creativity and (Endurance in Mission)
to our YFC members. Resourcefulness)

This reminds us that the topic is based on Topic 4: Ears of Joy Topic 27: Tattooed on my
Anchor Verse (Humility and respect Mind
God’s Word, making it real, and everlasting.
through listening (Loyalty to God)

These give us a clear idea of what the main MODEL OF EXCELLENCE

Objectives SELF-DISCOVERY SELF-DEVELOPMENT SELF-DUPLICATION
topic is trying to achieve.
Topic 5: Meekness, not Topic 28: One Track, One Topic 50: On the
These instruct us on how to go about the weakness Mind Ground
Mechanics (Humility in accepting our (Focus and Knowing one’s (Humility in being a good
entire household by the detail.
own weaknesses) priorities) example to others)
These bring out the youth’s inner thoughts Topic 29: Jack and Jill and Topic 51: Becoming
and feelings about a particular topic. It Topic 6: Silent Mode their trades the Gift
encourages them to understand themselves (Growing in our prayer time) (Discovering and enhancing (Sharing one’s life to
Guide Questions your gifts) others)
better. These questions also pave the way for
a deeper relationship of trust and openness Topic 52: Anything but
Topic 30: Rough Riders
Topic 7: Rabbit or Turtle Ordinary
within the Household. (Focus and Determination)
(Perseverance and
(Honesty, Trust, Listening
Determination)
These are what we want our members to hold and Respect)
Lessons on to by the end of the Household, assisting Topic 31: Even the
Topic 8: Take the lead
them in applying it to their everyday lives. (Initiative and Perseverance)
Smallest Detail
(Diligence and Endurance)
Other Anchor Verses These support the Anchor Verse. CHAMPION OF THE POOR
Our households do not necessarily end LESS FOR SELF MORE FOR OTHERS ENOUGH FOR ALL
when we close it with a prayer. Action plans Topic 53: Mother
Theresa: Hero of the
Action Plans create opportunities for our members to Topic 9: Nothing More Topic 32: Share a Load
Poor
apply what they have learned; making their (Contentment) (Generosity)
(Commitment and
learning a habit, then a lifestyle. service to others)
70 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l
Topic 10: Simply JC
(Simplicity)
Topic 11: Genuine Love,
Genuine Service
(Servanthood)
LOVING GOD’S PLAN
Topic 12: Be Loyal
(Loyalty to our heritage and
our roots)
Topic 13: Color it Green
(Respect for Culture and the
Environment)
Topic 14: Live Out Loud
(Excellence in serving
others)
YOU ARE SPECIAL
Topic 15: The Best Gift
(Appreciating God’s Design)
Topic 16: A Matter of
Integrity
(Value of Honor and
Integrity)
Topic 17: He Recognized
True Worth
(Appreciating our Worth
and Value as God’s
Creation)
SINGLE MINDED FOR GOD
SEARCH-IN
Topic 18: My Prayer Life
(Growing in our prayer life)
Topic 19: S.W.O.T ME
(Knowing Oneself)
a n n ex d 71
Topic 33: Count me In Topic 54: Hands On Topic 64: Wait on the
Topic 43: Obedience Step
(Compassion for brothers Work Topic 20: See Me Through Lord
by Step
and sisters in need) (Servant Leadership) (Knowing oneself more (Patience in waiting for
(Learning to purify one’s
through others) God’s plan to unfold in
Topic 34: All in One Topic 55: Generation desires)
one’s life)
(Commitment in our work Next
SOURCE OF UNITY TO THE FAMILY
and mission with the poor) (Making a difference)
GOING BACK HOME I AM HOME UNITING HOME
PATRIOTIC
PASSION FOR Topic 21: Picture Perfect Topic 44: Do you love me? Topic 65: House Party
HONORING YOUR ROOTS (Appreciation of God’s plan (Patience and Perseverance (Understanding our God-
SERVICE
for the family) in our family relationships) given roles in the family)
Topic 35: Live Simply Topic 56: One Love
(Living out our values as (Living together in Topic 66: Family
good citizens) Harmony and Peace) Topic 22: Forever Gift Topic 45: I Stand Portrait
(Seeking the good in our Corrected (Perseverance in
Topic 36: Made to Be Topic 57: “T” Share own family) (Healing and Forgiveness) witnessing to one’s own
(Understanding God’s plan (Stewardship of one’s family)
and purpose) time, talent and treasure)
Topic 67: G.A.P. (God’s
Topic 58: You Complete Topic 23: Somewhere Out
Topic 46: Care to Chat Appointed Protector)
Topic 37: Meal of Justice Me There
(Honesty, Trust, Listening (Accountability in being
(Understanding the value of (Being Patriots as a (Appreciating the bigger
and Respect) guardians of unity in the
justice) response to God’s family of YFC and CFC)
home and in the family)
faithfulness)
100% FREE
RISING FROM THE
TURNING POINT
FALL
Topic 38: Hidden Charges Topic 59: Embrace the
(Building and having trust Broken
with one another) (Compassion for others)
Topic 39: Accountability Topic 60: Do IT!
Check (Confidence to overcome
(Accountability) temptation)
Topic 40: Silly Rules vs. Topic 61: I endure to
Vital Standards be pure
(Living out the Christian (Endurance to live a pure
Lifestyle) lifestyle)
SEEKING GOD’S WILL EMBRACING VOCATION
Topic 62: Next
Attraction
Topic 41: Will of God
(Appreciating the life and
(Knowing God’s Will)
mission of Singles for
Christ)
Topic 63: Standing
Topic 42: Cross Roads
Firm
(Making Godly and loving
(Being firm in one’s own
decisions)
vocation)
 a n n ex e 73

3. Make the Choice

Once you have an idea of what your members need, check
the table of contents. Each chapter assembly is categorized into
each of the 7 YFC ID’s, with at least 4 to 5 different topics for you
to choose from.
ANNEX E
4. Get Ready
THE YFC CHAPTER ASSEMBLY MANUAL Once you have made your choice, go to the page of your
TOPIC GUIDE selected YFC ID and topic, and you will see a step-by-step
instruction guide on how to go about with the topic for the
assembly.

The manual contains thirty-six (36) inspiring and nourishing topics 5. Go!
that can serve as a guide in choosing the appropriate topics for the Chapter Now that you’re well guided, get your act together and move
Assembly. into conquering more souls for God!

The manual is designed to further affirm the core principles of Fun,

Table of Contents
Friendship, Freedom, and Faith. It serves as a source of nourishment and
fellowship among YFC as they grow into the path of a good and happy
Christian life. YFC ID No. TOPIC TITLE
1 On Hands and Knees
2 King’s Champion
How to use the Manual
3 Heart of a Winner
MISSIONARY
1. Check the Calendar 4 Burden for the Lost
5 Mission Impossible
Schedule and plan your Chapter Assembly ahead of time. This 6 Called to Serve
is important so that you can prepare the necessary materials to 7 Banquet of Love
make the topic effective for teaching and discussion, and in so
8 United in Christ
doing provide an excellent and inspiring gathering for all your 9 A Piece of Heaven
members.
MODEL OF EXCELLENCE 10 Stairway to Heaven
2. Discern the Topic 11 Down to Earth
12 Encounter to Remember
As Couple Coordinators and Youth Heads, you should 13 Simon Peter Says
first know the needs of your YFC. Work together in asking the 14 Care Champ
Household Heads about the immediate needs of their members. CHAMPION OF THE POOR 15 A Jesus Experience
Through this guide you can address their needs by selecting the 16 Standing in the Gap
appropriate topic in your next assembly. Ask God for the gift of
discernment and then decide from the menu of topics listed in
this manual.
74 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l a n n ex e 75

17 Keeper’s of Paradise This is a clear description of the ideal

18 On God’s Side Always Speaker/ Sharers Profile people who can best discuss and share
PATRIOT 19 Homeland about the specific topic.
20 The Patriot These guide questions serve as a chance
21 Created to Care for the members to talk within their
Guide Questions
22 Foundation 1: True Colors discussion group/Household about what
23 Foundation 2: Boy Meets Girl they have learned from the topic.
100% FREE
24 Is Vanity Fair Through the reflection song, we allow YFC
25 Circle of Friends members to not only listen and talk to
Reflection Song/s
26 In Pursuit of the Purpose each other, but also to listen and talk to
God.
27 Body Builder
SINGLE-MINDED FOR
28 A Heart Like This These supporting verses are suggested
GOD
29 Following Christ Other Verses readings to further stress out clearer
30 A Special Meal points about the topic being discussed.
31 Family Matters
32 Amazing Love
BEING A SOURCE OF 33 Buddy Watch
UNITY TO THE FAMILY 34 Reaching Out
35 In the Midst of the Storm
36 Family Strengths

Session Description

WHAT IS THERE? DESCRIPTION

A one-liner phrase that will give you an
Title
idea of what the topic is all about.
Each topic reflects the YFC identity that
YFC ID
you can use to strengthen and discuss.
This is Bible verse on which the main topic
Anchor Verse
is anchored.
Objective This is what the topic aims to achieve.
This is the step-by-step flow of the selected
Dynamics
topic for the assembly.
This is the main message of the entire
Expanded
assembly. This allows you to talk about the
Talk Outline
topic in a clearer and expanded way.

ANNEX F
THE YFC LEADERS ASSEMBLY MANUAL
TOPIC GUIDE
The What
The Leaders Assembly is a gathering of all YFC leaders that occur
regularly once a month. This manual contains 36 inspiring and nourishing
topics. There are 12 talks per year that we can use for the next three
years. but to also live out these values in all aspects of their lives, in their
The Purpose
The manual is designed to further affirm the value of fun, friendship,
freedom and faith. It serves as a venue for nourishment and fellowship
among YFC leaders as they grow into the path of a good and happy
Christian life.
The Venue
The venue of the leader’s assembly depends on the chosen topic. The
usual venues are parish halls, clubhouses, classrooms, etc. As leaders in
your respective area, you are free to choose and discern the ideal and
appropriate venue for your activity.
The People
All the YFC leaders and YFC Couple Coordinators of your respective
are all invited to attend this regular assembly. Attendees for the Leader’s
Assembly should have undergone the Leader’s Retreat, an empowerment
retreat for new YFC leaders in the area.
Year 1-3 Progression of Talks
a n n ex f 77
The YFC Leaders manual is a 3-year topic guide for the monthly
leader’s assembly. The talks were written in order to strengthen the
different leadership values and characters that need to be developed and
strengthened by a true YFC Christian leader.
Year 1- Leadership as Defined by Christ
The talks in the first year of the Leaders Assembly Manual aim to
strengthen the leadership values and qualities mirrored and shown by
Christ Himself. Through these talks, YFC leaders can follow the examples
of Christ leadership in serving others.
Year 2- Forming the Leader in You
The talks in the second year of the Leaders Assembly Manual aim to
teach the YFC leaders how to apply and embody the values of leadership
in their own personal lives. Through these talks, YFC leaders can learn
these leadership values, not just on how they serve as leaders in YFC,
families, studies, relationships, and in the community.
Year 3- Bringing Out Chrsit’s Leadership in Others
The talks in the third year of the Leaders Assembly Manual aim
to encourage YFC leaders to also promote and be advocates of these
leadership values to others. These talks will allow YFC leaders to be
God’s instruments in teaching others, through their example, how they
can also embrace these values and be able to live them out.
How to Use the Leaders Assembly Manual Topic
Guide
A. Check the calendar
Schedule and plan your leader’s assembly ahead of time. This
is important so that you can provide an excellent and inspiring
gathering for all your leaders.
B. Discern the topic
As Couple Coordinators and Youth leaders, you will be the
best persons to know the needs of your leaders. Work together
in asking the household heads of the immediate needs of their
members which you can address in preparing for the topic in
your next assembly. Ask God for the gift of discernment and then
78 basi c coupl e coor di nat o r s ’ tr a i n i n g m a n u a l

decide from the menu of topic listed in this manual.

C. Make the choice
Once you have an idea on what your members need, check
the table of contents. Each leaders’ assembly is categorized into
each of the YFC IDs.
D. Get ready
Once you have made your choice, go to the page of your
selected YFC ID, Value and topic and you will see a step-by-step
instruction on how to go about the assembly.
E. Go!
Now that you’re well guided, get your act together and move
into conquering more souls for God!

Leaders Assembly Manual Topic

YFC IDENTITY YEAR 1 TOPIC TITLES YEAR 2 TOPIC TITLES YEAR 3 TOPIC TITLES
Prints of Humility A Sinner to Saint Ready to Be Sent
MISSIONARY
Eyes of God In Me Faithfully Yours You Got Served
In His Steps Fuel For Passion E-Witness
MODEL OF EXCELLENCE
Rated-E Cut Above Build ‘Em Up
CHAMPION OF THE POOR For King and Country Giving Like Jesus Dare to Be a Hero
PATRIOT Loving Like Jesus Stand Our Ground My Country’s Keeper
The Power Within Brave Heart Free to Lead
100% FREE
Father’s Gaze Dare to Be Live Free
Single Minded Disciple Greatest of Them Footprints of Christ
SINGLE MINDED FOR GOD
Battle Within Solid Ground Finding the Treasure
Just Like Ruth Family First Family Service
SOURCE IN UNITY IN THE FAMILY
House Rules Parental Guidance Say a Little Prayer
 a n n ex g 81

weakness.
7. You are a YFC whose parents are not open for you to be active in
YFC. They are in fact discouraging you and pushing you to leave
the community because of the bad things that they have been
hearing about YFC.
ANNEX G
SITUATIONS FOR THE ONE-ON-ONE
WORKSHOP

The following are some of the situations or roles that YFC members
can play in the triad workshop of conducting one-on-ones:
1. You are a YFC leader who is discerning to go into Fulltime Pastoral
Work after graduating from school. You do not know how to open
this up to your parents because you are afraid that they will not
give you their blessing. Consult your Couple Coordinator (CC) on
what you should do, and ask help with your discernment.
2. You are a YFC who is currently facing a very big family problem:
your parents are about to break up. They are not CFC. You are
thinking of running away from home and staying over with your
friends to escape the everyday troubles, fights, and arguments
that you always hear at home.
3. You are a YFC brother who is asking permission to court/have a
date with a YFC sister. Ask your CC for advice. What should you
do, etc?
4. You are a YFC who is having hesitations or doubts of moving on
to Singles For Christ (SFC). You are still very eager to serve in YFC
and you are afraid to transition to the next ministry because of
the negative rumors you have heard about it (SFC is boring, the
members are old, etc.).
5. You are a YFC who is having a hard time in passing school.
Because of this, you are thinking of leaving your service in YFC
and becoming inactive for the next few months.
6. You are a YFC brother who is having 100% FREE issues (e.g.
addicted to masturbation, or smoking, or drinking, etc.). Ask help
and advice from your CC on what you should do to overcome your
 a n n ex h 83

8. Slow song
9. Singing in the Spirit. The worship leader will encourage the
participants to use the Gift of Tongues.
10. Gospel Reading and Prophecy. This is the part where the worship
leader or an assigned person will read the Gospel, which is God’s
ANNEX H word for the day.
WORSHIP 11. Thanksgiving Prayer. The worship leader will express his gratefulness
to God for the many blessings and graces; he can recite a few
specifically.
12. Stating our Petitions. The worship leader will lift up personal
concerns and requests to God.
What is Worship?
13. Concluding prayer

W orship is being able to come before the presence of God; it is being

able to acknowledge that he alone is GOD, and that we are created to
worship and glorify Him. In glorifying Him we sing songs of praise and
worship. As St. Augustine once said, “He who sings prays twice.” We can
jump and dance like David as he celebrated God’s love in the book of
Psalms. We can raise our hands as we surrender our lives in prayer.

Worship Format

The following is the usual format of worship:

1. Exhortation
2. Sign of the Cross
3. Short Prayer
4. First fast song
5. Simultaneous Praising. Praising might be likened as “introductions”
in any audience. This is where we honor God and acknowledge His
greatness.
6. Second fast song
7. Simultaneous Worship. Worship is when we start to say how we
feel and when we begin to truly realize God’s greatness. In this level,
people start to “offer” themselves to God, saying, “I belong to you,
my life is yours….”.
 a n n ex i
ANNEX I
THE YFC AREA LEVELS OF GROWTH AND
STRUCTURE
Levels of Growth
Note: This focuses on the levels of growth of a province in terms of structure.
Diagram 1: Full-blown Provincial Top-level Structure
Provincial Set-Up
T he organizational structure of YFC Philippine Missions follows the
structure of the CFC in the province. The Provincial Couple Coordinator
is the head of YFC, and this couple represents YFC as one of the Family
Ministries of the province.
Under the Provincial Couple Coordinator (PCC) are the Provincial
2.
Program Couple Coordinators, whose primary role is to oversee the proper
implementation of each YFC program in the province. Initially, especially
when programs are still being established in an area, the province starts at
a basic structure – that is, a household-level structure – wherein the top-
level youth leaders are pastored by the PCC while the CCs of any starting
program, having their households in mainstream CFC, are under the PCC
functionally. Once the ministry starts to grow, the provincial set-up may
develop into a full structure.
YFC Full Structure for Provinces
1. Every province’s YFC full structure consists of:
a. Provincial Couple Coordinator, together with the Provincial
Youth Heads (1 brother, 1 sister).
b. Provincial Program Couple Coordinators – assigned to
each YFC program, together with youth heads (1 brother,
1 sister). The Program Couple Coordinator and youth
85
heads oversee the program of the entire province in terms
of activities, growth, and implementation of direction as
per advised by the International Program Heads (Full-time
Pastoral Workers based in Manila, assigned to head and
develop the YFC programs).
c. The Provincial Program Couple Coordinators and their
youth counterparts form the Provincial Core Group.
d. The Provincial Core Group functionally reports to the PCC
with details regarding their respective programs.
e. In terms of pastoral structure, the PCC is the pastoral
head of the provincial core youth leaders while the
provincial core couple coordinators have their household
in mainstream CFC.
f. Refer to diagram below.
Each program also has a basic structure to aid it in its specific
missions.
a. The Community Based Program has Sector Couple
Coordinators and youth heads (1 brother, 1 sister), Cluster
Couple Coordinators and youth heads (1 brother, 1 sister)
under the sector level, and Chapter Couple Coordinators and
youth heads (1 brother, 1 sister) under the cluster level. Every
level of the structure must follow the CFC structure of the area.
b. Each program has determined a structure to follow (refer to
diagram below) but has also set certain provisions to consider
at whatever level the province may be in. The basic structure
for school-based programs (Campus Based and High School
Based Programs) consists of Program Volunteers (youth
heads).
c. Each School Based Program may have several program
volunteers as deemed necessary. The number of program
 volunteers depends on the need/goal set by the province as
well as the availability of youth volunteers. For High School
based Program, Program Volunteers are assigned on a per
school-basis while in Campus Based program, program
volunteers handle 2-3 schools provided that the schools are
geographically near each other and provided that the PV’s
availability is taken into consideration.
d. Torch program has Sector Couple Coordinators and youth
heads (1 brother, 1 sister), and Household Heads under the
sector level.
e. YCOM program has Group Heads and a pool of talents under
each group called the YCOM crew.
f. The coordinators serve as the pastoral heads of the youth
while they, as Couples for Christ, have their household in
mainstream CFC. (For details on the pastoral structure per
program, refer to the program manuals) Expansion and Provisions in the Structure for
g. Refer to the diagram below. Provinces
Diagram 2: Full-blown Provincial Top-level Structure with Basic
Once a province starts to progress in its mission, certain provisions in
Program Structure
the structure may be made. Here are specific guidelines we need to know.

1. Any expansion and/or provision in the structure will be horizontally

Detailed Diagram 2.1: (This diagram shows that there’s more than 1
sector, cluster, chapter, and several number of PVs in an area)
and downward – meaning, if the PCC and Provincial Program
Coordinators deem it necessary, people and/or positions may be
added, NOT into the top level structure but at the levels below
them. Any addition of people/position must still be according to
the set structure for each level/program.
2. The PCC, together with Provincial Program Coordinator, may assign
couple coordinators under each program vis-a-vis the need/
goal/growth of the program, taking into consideration also the
availability of manpower for every position added in the structure.
Any provision in the structure must be guided by the structure
determined for each program (refer to previous diagrams).
3. Expansion/s for community-based and Torch program follows the
CFC structure of the area.
4. For school-based programs (Campus Based and High School
Based), coordinators are assigned under the Provincial Program
Couple Coordinators to help them either in sustaining the existing
campuses/high schools or in opening new campuses/high schools.
 Such coordinators will be called Program Area Coordinators Diagram 4: Full-blown Provincial Structure with Expanded
(Campus Area Coordinator/High School Area Coordinator). Provision on Program Structure
Program Area Youth heads may be assigned as partners to
Program Area Couple Coordinators.
5. Program Area Coordinators (Campus Area Coordinator/High
School Area Coordinator) are called such since they will be
assigned to oversee campus/es or high school/s in a specific area
through the Program Volunteers, considering the proximity or the
geographical location of these schools. Specifics about Program
Area Coordinators and Youth heads may be read in their respective
Program Manuals.
6. Further expansion for the YCOM program is on the level of talent
pools (YCOM Crew).
7. Each program has activities that happen independently of other
programs. However, schools/campuses may have a sector identity
(that is, they may be identified to a sector where they fall in
geographically) for mobilization and representation purposes.
8. Refer to diagram below.
Diagram 3: Full-blown Provincial Structure

1. Depending on the PCC and Provincial Program Coordinators’

strategy, several Program Area Coordinators and youth heads
may be assigned. For areas that still do not have program area
coordinators, Program Volunteers may still aid in the mission.