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About St. Elizabeth of Hungary Parish CYO
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Sports, well understood and practiced... contributes to the development of the whole person because it demands generous effort, careful self-control, mastery of self and respect for others, complete commitment and team spirit... these values contribute to the building up of tomorrow's well-ordered society which we have characterized as the 'civilization of love.'" These words of Pope Paul VI echo the thoughts of Bishop Gerald J. Ryan when he established CYO on Long Island. They echo still today as CYO labors to provide quality athletic programs which foster personal growth, the dignity of each individual, and understanding of true sportsmanship.
The goal of CYO is to help young athletes discover and develop their talents by providing an atmosphere of fair play and sportsmanship; by instilling discipline and self-confidence, and by building pride and self-respect. In order to achieve this goal, the members of CYO (coaches, coordinators, officials, parents and other program volunteers), recognize that their actions have a dramatic impact on the children participating in the program.
What children experience in the CYO program will shape their future: "Children learn what they live." Sometimes it's so easy to think of the Church as apart from our daily lives. We must remember that the Church is not a building - it's us! Each of us is responsible for its growth and the success of its mission.
As individual Christians, we are called to bear witness to Christ in our daily lives: where we live; where we work; and where we play. We are called to use our unique God given strengths and talents to bring all people to God. This is our vocation as Christians. When people who are active in the church building are also active in the lives of its children, this message comes across loud and clear.
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