Youth Ministries at St. Thomas'

Sr. High SmilesThe Youth Ministry at St. Thomas' is built upon the four areas of study, worship, service and fellowship. Our philosophy on Youth Ministry is to work alongside the parents of the youth to help the youth develop their own spirituality. Our role is to challenge youth to love God, to love God's creation and to love themselves, to be what God has created him to be, that is, fully human. All young people ages 11-18 are welcomed to come to the meetings on 2nd and 4th Sunday evenings at the church. Highlights included Movie Nights , Youth Sunday worship in Oct., the December Lock In , Souper Bowl Sunday, Halloween Spooktacular and CARITAS Service Project. There are summer outings such as water rafting, a trip to a theme park, and several outreach activities.

Middle School Youth - 2008: Middle School Youth on Amy's Birthday 2008In 2006, one of St. Thomas' youth participated in a Mission Trip to the Mississippi for Hurricane Relief. Three youth served on the Diocesan Parish Youth Ministry Council, helping in planning and coordinating the Diocesan Youth Events. St. Thomas' Youth participated in the Diocesan Jr. and Sr. High Weekends at Shrinemont. Two youth also served as Counselors at St. Elizabeth's camp at Shrinemont. The youth ministry of St. Thomas' is indebted to the work of the youth leaders and the support of the youth parents and the congregation.

What the youth have to say:

"We keep coming back because we know that we will find unconditional love here!  In our Youth Group we know we are accepted just the way we are."  --the High School Lenten Study Group 2007