The Mustard Seeds is a Christ-centered youth ministry rooted in the Gospel and inspired by Jesus’ parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 17:20). We believe that faith often begins small—through curiosity, questions, kindness, prayer, courage, and service—and can grow over time into a deeply rooted, lived relationship with Christ when supported and intentionally nurtured.
Our ministry exists to support youth in developing faith, character, and identity within a safe, supervised, relational, and non-coercive environment that honors the dignity and developmental stage of each young person.
The Mustard Seeds exists to nurture Christ-centered faith, character, and joyful service in youth through a respectful, supportive, and relational community where small beginnings are cultivated into strong, lived faith.
We envision youth who are:
Rooted in God’s love
Confident in their God-given identity
Equipped to live with integrity, compassion, and courage
Prepared to serve and lead with humility
The purpose of The Mustard Seeds is to:
Provide consistent opportunities for faith formation outside of traditional classroom models
Foster belonging, trust, and community among youth and mentors
Encourage faith that is practiced, not pressured
Support parents and guardians as primary faith formators
Raise future Christ-centered servant leaders through mentorship and modeled discipleship
The Mustard Seeds is guided by the following principles:
Christ-Led & Scripture-Centered
All formation flows from the person of Jesus Christ and Sacred Scripture.
Safe & Supervised
We adhere to diocesan safety standards, best practices in youth ministry, and appropriate boundaries.
Relational, Not Performative
Belonging precedes belief; relationships are foundational to faith growth.
Non-Coercive & Respectful
Participation is invitational. Youth are encouraged, never forced, to pray, speak, or share.
Developmentally Attentive
Programming reflects the emotional, spiritual, and social stages of youth development.
Service-Oriented
Faith is expressed through action, generosity, and care for others.
The Mustard Seeds is a supplementary Christ-focused youth community and support. However, it is not a complete faith formation offered at many churches. In other words, it is just a first step and/or auxiliary community.
The Mustard Seeds intentionally welcomes:
Youth from other Catholic parishes
Youth from other Christian denominations
Youth who are not affiliated with a church but are open to being part of a Christ-centered, values-based community
Basic Rules-All participants are expected to:
Respect the Christian identity and practices of the group
Engage with openness and curiosity. Be coachable.
Uphold community norms of respect and safety, and act reasonably. Caregivers are to connect early if a child has in the past had trouble upholding these norms. If extra support is needed to help a student participate, parent involvement might be needed or a paid aide.
Participation does not require formal church membership or sacramental status.
Mustard Seed Participants
Students in Grades 3–8
Mustard Seed Youth Volunteers
Grades 9–12 (up to age 17) serving as Assistant Leaders or Mentors
Mustard Seed Adult Volunteers
Adults 18+ serving as Assistant Leaders or Mentors
Mustard Seed Helpers
Adults assisting with logistics, donations, one-time tasks, and support roles
Parents & Guardians
Partners in communication, safety, and faith support at home
Structure of Gatherings & Formation-Repetitious?
The Mustard Seeds offers three complementary types of engagement:
Typically held once per month once the ministry is established.
Faith discussion
Games and relationship-building
Prayer and reflection
Community connection
2. Special & Outreach Events
Held on weekends, school breaks, or during summer.
Service projects
Faith-based events
Retreat-style experiences
Outreach and evangelizing opportunities
3. Online Activities
Faith prompts and reflections
Community connection between gatherings
Supplemental formation and communication
Adult leaders are responsible for:
Creating a safe, Christ-centered environment
Modeling Christian character and discipleship
Facilitating discussions and activities
Upholding diocesan policies and safety protocols
Supporting parents and guardians
Youth leaders are invited into:
Servant leadership roles
Mentorship under adult supervision
Modeling faith through action and example
Age-appropriate responsibility and accountability
Youth leaders do not replace adult leadership and always serve under adult oversight.
The Mustard Seeds is committed to:
Clear drop-off and pick-up procedures
Two-adult rule at all gatherings
Appropriate boundaries and communication practices
Required registration, waivers, and emergency information
Transparent communication with families
Questions, concerns, or feedback are always welcomed and taken seriously.
The Mustard Seeds is free to attend, reflecting our belief that faith formation should be accessible.
Donations may be requested to help cover:
Food and materials
Special events
Scholarships
Outreach opportunities
No youth is excluded due to financial limitations.
The Mustard Seeds operates under the oversight and support of Holy Rosary Catholic Church, in alignment with parish leadership and diocesan policies.
Primary Parish Contacts: Holy Rosary Catholic Church (507) 387-6501
Pastor: Fr. Paul Van de Crommert.
Faith Formation / Staff Lead: Cathy Neve
Administrative Staff:
Curtis Wenkel
Donna Wenkel
Pastor & Parish Staff at Holy Rosary Catholic Church
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Volunteer Main Leader (currently Roxi Lang)
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Adult Asst. Leaders Young Adult Asst. (9th grade-12th) Roxi's Admin. & Media