~ Empowering Youth Protagonists for Mission-Driven Change ~
What is YCOPI?
YCOPI (Youth Co-leadership Protagonism Initiative) – as in “why copy anyone else when God made you unique in the world for a unique mission” – is a transformative initiative empowering youth to encounter Christ, discover their gifts, and grow as missionary disciples who live out their faith as servant leaders.
Founded on the pillars of Accompaniment, Youth Protagonism and Co-leadership, Transformational Service, Missionary Discipleship and Baptismal Identity, and Eucharist as Source and Summit, YCOPI leads youth through a discernment and formation process, equipping youth–adult leadership cohorts to design youth-led Youth Mission Initiatives in their parishes. Grounded in our partner, Goodfaith’s ministry model and the Gospel call to service, YCOPI fosters protagonism, spiritual formation, and intergenerational collaboration through structured learning, mentorship, and real-world application.
Vision
YCOPI envisions parish communities where youth and adults grow together as missionary disciples, with youth confidently living their Baptismal Call as protagonists of faith‑driven action.
Mission
To form youth and adults in missionary discipleship, empowering youth to be agents of change within their faith communities.
Core Objectives
- Equip youth to imagine and lead a Youth Mission Initiative (YMI) in their respective communities.
- Deepen youth skills and spirituality
- Empower adults through the skills of accompaniment
- Strengthen parishes through youth-led service and intergenerational engagement
Pillars
- Eucharist as Source and Summit
- Accompaniment
- Youth Protagonism and Co-leadership
- Transformational Service
- Missionary Discipleship and Baptismal Identity
Why YCOPI?
YCOPI Cohorts
Take a look inside the YCOPI year!
Timeline
- Sessions “flip” between virtual gatherings and in-person experiences.
- Cohort begins with a virtual Orientation in September.
- Formation kicks off with an overnight experience in October (Saturday 9 AM to Sunday 2 PM)
- Click here for the 2026 YCOPI Cohort session details and full schedule as an example.
See additional information below.
Who can participate?
Youth Delegates (Grades 9–11 in the 2026- 2027 school year)
Characteristics: Spiritual, passionate, team player, compassionate, available, committed, ready for the next step in their faith.
Adult Accompaniers
Characteristics: Supportive, creative, empowering, spiritual, flexible, and compassionate. They must be 21 years of age and have checks and clearances per the Office for Child and Youth Protection of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. *They should not be parish staff.
Important Details
- Parishes may nominate 1 to 3 youth. Youth can then select their accompanying adult(s).
- Youth delegates and accompanying adults are required to participate in all gatherings, including the overnight formation retreat. Of course, we understand that things can come up. We will work with participants on a case-by-case basis.
- Each parish will need a Parish Liaison to serve as the “connecting” resource between the youth/adult team and the pastor and parish. They are not required to attend the formation gatherings but are welcomed.
- Should the accompanying adult not be able to attend a formation meeting, the Parish Liaison would accompany the youth.
- Participants are only asked to cover a portion of the overnight experience, not to exceed $100 per person (final cost TBD). There are no other costs associated with participation in the 2026 YCOPI Cohort.
- Although it is not a requirement, we highly encourage YCOPI participants to join our Archdiocesan delegation to the National Catholic Youth Conference (NCYC) when in Indianapolis at the end of November (2027, 2029). It is a transformative experience that can powerfully stir the Holy Spirit, further strengthening the Baptismal Call in each participant. Details become available in February each year we lead a delegation.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us at [email protected] or call 215-587-3714.