Roles of Mas and Pas

 

Roles of Mas and Pas

  · Enhance the spiritual experience. The Ma and Pa prepare themselves spiritually and seek the Spirit in all they do and say. One of their most important responsibilities is helping the youth benefit spiritually from the trek. Music, stories, testimonies, expressions of love, and family discussions help create an environment in which the Spirit can teach and inspire youth. 

 

· Build unity. The Ma and Pa strive to help members of their group become unified and develop supportive friendships. They ask group members to stay together rather than join with other groups. To help build unity, the Ma and Pa model in their relationship the skills they hope the youth will acquire or increase. They work together in harmony, support one another, and have fun together. 

 

· Challenge youth to participate wholeheartedly. The Ma and Pa make every effort to help the youth in their group become engaged in the trek. Rather than doing most of the work themselves, they help all group members work together and make contributions. The Ma and Pa encourage youth to step outside of their comfort zones, although they must not require them to do anything against their will. 

 

· Set expectations. As the trek begins, the Ma and Pa discuss expectations with their group. For example, they could explain the importance of working together to make the trek experience beneficial for everyone. They help the youth understand that this doesn’t happen automatically but will require the efforts of each person. Another expectation to discuss is the importance of showing courtesy and respect to each other.

 

  · Keep things positive. The Ma and Pa set a good example of being positive. They should be loving, humble, and firm, while also having fun. If one or more youth are detracting from the experience of others, the Ma and Pa counsel with them. Most treks have challenges, but the Ma and Pa can help the group face them positively and prayerfully. 

 

· Help the family youth leaders (“big brothers” and “big sisters”). If the family has youth leaders, the Ma and Pa support them in fulfilling their responsibilities. These responsibilities could include helping lead the family in games, devotionals, meal preparation, and problem solving. 

 

· Be there. The Ma and Pa should be present for the entire trek and walk with their group the entire way. They seek to understand the thoughts, feelings, and personalities of each group member. They talk with and listen to the youth individually and as a group. 

 

· Be flexible. Some families are outgoing and lively, while others are quiet and reserved. The Ma and Pa guide their group’s development according to the personalities of those in the group, with the assistance of the Spirit. 

 

· Lead family discussions. The Ma and Pa encourage group members to share their thoughts and feelings about their experiences. They encourage group discussions in formal and informal settings, such as mealtimes, campfires, and devotionals. The Ma and Pa also share their own experiences, talk about their own feelings, and testify of truth. Suggestions for leading discussions are provided below. 

 

· Maintain hydration and encourage safety. The Ma and Pa ensure that all group members (including themselves) drink plenty of water. They also encourage youth to be safe and to protect themselves from injury and illness. They observe each of their youth to ensure that they are not sick or unduly struggling. If any questions or concerns arise, they contact a member of the medical team immediately.

 

· Keep track of participants. The Ma and Pa keep track of the youth in their group at all times.