We encourage 6th-12th graders to find ways of making the church their own. We want our teenagers to know that they belong to the church and that the church belongs to them. Youth Group meets most Sundays from 10:15 until 11:00 a.m. Our youth serve as Ushers, Acolytes, choristers and lay readers at every 9:10 a.m. service. Special opportunities abound for both traditional and creative involvement in St. James’. Friends are always welcome! If you are a newcomer, we can’t wait to meet you!
“For you, O Lord, are my hope, my trust, O Lord, from my youth.”
– Psalm 71:5
Be A Leader in Worship
Youth can usher, acolyte, sing, and read at every 9:10 a.m. service (during the academic year). Service and special opportunities abound for both traditional and creative involvement.
Youth Advisors
If you are interested in working with the Youth Group or chaperoning the Friday Night Dinner Program, contact Calvin Bushman.
What About Confirmation?
In 8th grade, Church School students prepare for Confirmation. The Rite of Confirmation is described in the Book of Common Prayer as “the mature reaffirmation of baptismal vows.” Confirmation is an opportunity to explore one’s identity as a Christian through education classes, leadership in worship, regular service, and relationships in community. In late April or early May, the Bishop visits St. James’ and confirms those students (and adults) who wish to re-affirm their Christian faith.
Education (September through May)
6th & 7th Grade Class
Sundays, 10:15 A.M. - 11:00 A.M.
5th Floor Meeting Room
Join our Middle Schoolers for games, snacks, and to dive deeper into the Scripture for the day! Adult Youth Advisors oversee this time of fun and formation.
Confirmation Class (8th Grade)
Sundays, 10:15 A.M. - 11:30 A.M.
Kinsolving Room (2nd Floor)
Click here to learn about our year-long Confirmation program. If you are interested in getting confirmed, contact Calvin Bushman.
Youth Group (Grades 9-12)
Sundays, 10:15 A.M. - 11:00 A.M.
3rd Floor Youth Room
Middle School and High Schoolers meet each Sunday for Youth Group. Sometimes we’ll stick together and other times our High Schoolers will head out for food and coffee. Join us in the “Franks” Youth Room most Sundays for games, food, and time together.
Worship
Youth in 8th-12th Grade serve as Ushers and Head Ushers at the 9:10 a.m. service. Interested? Contact Calvin Bushman.
Youth serve as Acolytes, read from the Bible, and lead Prayers at 9:10 a.m. Email Vicki Hall to get involved.
Sing in the Choir with 3rd-12th Graders.
Service
Youth Host the Friday Night Dinner Program (September through May)
2nd Friday of the Month, 5:30-9:00 p.m. in the Kitchen
- 7th -12th graders are in charge of St. James’ Friday Night Dinner Program on the 2nd Friday of the month from September through May. We cook dinner, serve guests, and wash dishes at this seated, three course meal for our hungry neighbors. Friends and first timers welcome!
Offsite Youth Service Sunday: Throughout the year, the Confirmation Class will lead all of the Youth in a service activity that they will choose and plan.”
Community
Throughout the year, Middle and High School students participate in special events including overnights at the church and trips out of town, the annual Christmas Pageant and Good Friday Children’s service, Friday Friends and more! Youth are invited to join parish-wide events, like Homecoming, making Advent Wreaths, Shrove Tuesday supper.
John 21 Breakfast: Several times a year, Middle and High School Youth Groups gather in the Kitchen where High Schoolers prepare a delicious breakfast for all the Youth to enjoy together.
Friday Friends: High schoolers will throw a party for St. James’ middle school-aged youth. These evening will be time to spend together playing games, eating snacks, and getting to know each other better.
