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Sr. Margaret Michael
A Message for the MTV Generation
(and their parents)
 Sister
Margaret Michael often addresses packed audiences of teenagers and parents
on media issues. Teens warm up to the opportunity to be able to
discuss and learn to question what they are seeing and hearing on TV and
in music. Her seminars are an opportunity to talk to young people about
Jesus Christ in their language. She uses videos of various types of contemporary
Christian music - Christian rock, rap, R&B, ska, alternative, metal.
Though she touches on their favorites shows and music, she makes it clear
to them that she will be talking to them about Jesus Christ. And, she
invites them to listen deeply.
"I know Jesus has a message for you this morning," she often says.
"He has a word for you today. It may come through the images you'll see,
the words of the music, or the Gospel message we'll share. But I know
he'll speak to you."
A young man recently shared his impressions with his youth minister after
Sr. Michael's presentation:
"Finally, someone has talked about God in a language I understand - music."
They're hearing about Christ, they're learning about Christian rock. At
the same time, they're learning as well to be critical users of the media
- to think about what they're watching and listening to, and talk about
it with others.
In addition to her presentation to teenagers, Sr. Margaret Michael often
meets with their parents. Her talk to parents, "Leading an MTV Generation
to Christ," covers everything from current movies, to lyrics of popular
songs, to TV commercials geared to "selling" not only product but ideas
to young people.
Her big point is for parents to communicate with their kids about what
they're
watching and listening to. "I'm not saying you have to turn the TV off
-
although, in some cases you may have to. What I am saying is that we need
to talk with our young people about what they are watching and listening
to. We can help them bring our Christian values into contact with the
media messages they are receiving. "
She encourages parents to listen to the music their children listen
to. "If you don't understand the lyrics to a song, ask your kid to translate
them for you! Ask them the meaning of the song, and then enter into a
conversation with them
about the lyrics - both the positive and negative aspects, " says Sr.
Michael.
Sr. Margaret Michael realizes that trying to live with Jesus in an "MTV
world" isn't always easy, for teens and parents alike. "But, always
remember Jesus' words," she exhorts them. "He says to you and me, 'Do
not be afraid. I am with you' - yes, even in an MTV world! And he's calling
you to make a difference in this world today!"
To find out if a sister is available for media presentations in your area,
contact media presentations.
Copyright
© 1999-2005, Daughters of St. Paul. All Rights Reserved.
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