Youth, Grades 6-12
Our mission is to nurture a safe space where young people are free to explore their faith, wrestle with their doubts, and discern how God is present in their lives while also creating opportunities for intergenerational connections among members of the parish.
Sunday School for youth meets 9:15 – 10:15 in the Upper Parish Hall and is led by teams of leaders using Bible-based curriculum, discussion, and hands-on activities.
Confirmation (High School) Beginning in 9th Grade, youth are invited to participate in Exploring Spiritual Treasure (EST) on Sundays, 9:00 – 10:15 a.m. This class composed of teens through adults contemplates faith topics that pertain to confirmation and spirituality in a small group setting. Youth will also meet on the 4th Sunday of each month in the afternoon to discuss youth specific issues that are of particular interest or concern for them.
Youth Group (Episcopal Youth Community) involves faith, fun, food, and fellowship! Beginning in September, Youth Group for grades 6 through 12 will include:
Wednesday Night Youth Group gatherings during the school year. We will begin with supper in Gerhart Hall or the Courtyard at 6:00, then move to the Youth Room (in the basement of the Parish Hall) for conversation, games, fellowship, and prayer.
Monthly Weekend Activities just for youth such as:
Denton Valley Farms - October 22
Miniature Golf at Play Faire Park - November 12
Winter Lightfest - December 17
Christmas Pageant (Children & Youth) - December 21
Progressive Dinner
Preparing a Wednesday Night meal
Making sandwiches for BOBS
Game Night
Swim Night
And more
Youth are welcome to attend one or all!!
Worship is for everyone! Youth are encouraged to worship with their families but are also invited to lead in ways that are meaningful to them and through which they may use their gifts.
Service - Some of the opportunities: Acolyte Ministry, Stream Team, Altar Guild, Canterbury Choir and Handbells (HS and Adults), Greeter and Welcome Ministry, Usher Ministry, and Lay Ministry (Reading Scripture and Serving Communion). Youth can also serve during special events like Tamasha la wa Africa, Easter Egg Hunt, and more. Contact Carol Ann and she can help youth connect to the appropriate leader.
Child/Youth Information and Release Forms need to be filled out by each August so that we have the most up-to-date contact and safety information.
OPPORTUNITIES TO SERVE:
Leaders and assistants are needed for ALL ministries with youth. You are encouraged to visit with Carol Ann, our Director of Family Ministries, to see where you might best serve on a regular or occasional basis. Training and all materials will be provided. All leaders with children and youth also complete training and background checks through Safeguarding God’s Children and the Episcopal Diocese of NW TX.
Support for many ministries is also a valuable way to serve without working directly with youth.
Contact: Carol Ann Weston, Director of Family Ministries cweston@heavenlyrest.org