Children, Youth and Families Ministry

The vision of the diocesan children, youth and families ministries department is to be a Christian community that reflects Christ's love and is a vibrant place of acceptance of all people. We want the youngest people in the church - even down to the littlest littles - to know they are wondrously made by our Creator, God loves them, and to we can help them find ways to share that love in the world. We want the children, youth and families in the diocese to have safe, affirming spaces to learn about God, scripture and The Episcopal Church. And we want them to have fun and build strong, faithful relationships in the process! Our department works with children and young people (birth through grade 12) and their families to come together to grow in spiritual formation and develop leadership within the church. This mission includes supporting children and youth leaders and congregations in their ministries.

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GETTING STARTED IN YOUTH MINISTRY

Are you new to parish or diocesan youth ministry? Find resources to help you get started.

Start your journey

COVID-19 RESOURCES

• Children's, Families and Schools Guidelines (September 6, 2022)
• Contact Tracing Template

DIOCESAN YOUTH MINISTRY

• Annual Events
  • Bishops' Ball
  • Genesis
  • Happening
  • HUGS Camp
  • Annual Convention
• Chartered Committee on Youth (CCY)
• Dismantling Racism, Youth Edition
  

COLORS OF HOPE

This is a monthly meeting for LGBTQIA+ youth in the diocese. We will use the book The Colors of Hope: Devotions from LGBTQ+ Christians as a starting point for our conversations. The discussions will be facilitated by LGBTQIA+ young adults and will be a safe space for fellowship, community and conversation. Preregistration is required to get the Zoom link, but there is no commitment to attend every month - come when it works, but hopefully often!

CHILDREN, YOUTH AND MENTAL HEALTH COMMITTEE

A subset of children's and youth ministry, the Children, Youth and Mental Health Committee, is dedicated to supporting young people and their parents in navigating mental health challenges and supporting mental wellness. They have curated resources appropriate to different age groups. Contact Amy Campbell, children's and family missioner, or the Rev. Lauren Villemuer-Drenth, committee chair, with questions.

Collective Trauma/Collective Resilience Webinar Collection

Community and School Shootings: A Diocesan Resource