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, 10:15-11:00 a.m.
Youth Room (3rd floor)
Join our Middle Schoolers for games, snacks, and to dive deeper into the Scripture for the day! Adult Youth Group Leaders oversee this time of fun and formation.
Confirmation Class (8th Grade)
Sundays, 10:15-11:30 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.
HS Brunch (Grades 9-12)
Once monthly, 10:15-11:00 a.m.
Meet at Parish Reception and head out to a restaurant for brunch
Once monthly, our high schoolers go out for brunch and coffee after the 9:10 a.m. service. We talk about our faith and what is going on in our lives.
Worship
Youth in 6th-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.
Youth can sing in the Choir every couple of weeks. Contact Kenneth Miller to learn more about the chorister program.
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
- 6th -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!
In addition to our dedicated time working the Meal Programs, during specific seasons, we accept donations of food, toiletries, and clothing for Midnight Run, an organization that brings resources to those in need. Our high schoolers then participate in a “Midnight Run” to deliver these essentials to underserved communities in NYC.
In the fall and spring, all students are invited to join a day of Creation Care at St. Francis Community Garden in North Bellmore, NY.
Contact Calvin Bushman if your child is interested in joining these mission opportunities, or if you are willing to be a chaperone for off-campus trips.
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, and more! Youth are invited to join parish-wide events, like Homecoming, making Advent Wreaths, and Shrove Tuesday supper.
Some activities include Mission Impossible, Life Size Clue, Flashlight Tag, and more on Friday Friends, trips to Dave & Busters on federal holidays, ski trips in the winter, Pizza with the Priests on Ash Wednesday, Youth Stations of the Cross in Lent, and lock-ins at the church overnight.
Youth Staff
Originally from North Jersey, Calvin completed his undergraduate degree in Biblical and Theological Studies at Nyack College before completing his Master of Divinity at Boston University School of Theology. Calvin has previously been involved with several youth ministries, and recently completed a one-year residency as a hospital chaplain at Mount Sinai Hospital prior to coming to St. James’. Calvin is beyond excited to be a part of the St. James’ community, and looks forward to the fun of exploring faith and formation with youth and young adults.
Outside of church, Calvin loves going to the movies and considers it a spiritual practice to go once a week. Currently, Calvin lives in East Harlem with his partner, Sophie and their dog, Moses.
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