Youth Ministry

In pre-COVID times, our Sunday Children’s School is held during the 10:30 AM service, using the “Rock Solid” curriculum with the addition of songs, prayers and crafts, to deepen the kids’ relationship with Jesus.  A youth choir also practices and performs when not within COVID-19 restrictions. And in the first week of August, St. Paul’s holds a 4-evening Vacation Bible School, for the children of St. Paul’s as well as for any surrounding congregations who want to join in the fun.

To bring the children of St. Paul’s back together during COVID-19 restrictions, the parishioners organized a 4-week Advent Zoom gathering. The topics included discussing and creating an Advent Wreath, celebration of St. Nicholas’ feast day, the importance of sharing presents, and painting their own Nativity Scene as we walked through the story of the Nativity of Christ.

Another weekly Zoom gathering has been held for Lent.  7 weeks in length, this series included the making of a family prayer table at home, the 3D layout and map of Jerusalem during the weeks leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion, the meaning of the stations of the cross, the explanation and coloring of Ukrainian Easter eggs, and the celebration of Jesus’ resurrection.

Though this is not our favorite way to get St. Paul’s youth together, Zoom has been a blessing in bringing our church community to our children during these trying times.

Youth Group

In pre-COVID times, St. Paul’s Youth Group organizes the Shrove Tuesday pancake dinner to raise funds for youth activities, and helps with the annual Chicken BBQ and New Consecration Sunday luncheon, aiding in building community and connecting with all parishioners.  As well, St Paul’s youth participate heavily in the Albany Diocese’s Beaver Cross activities throughout the year and at summer camp.

Even during COVID-19 restrictions, the Youth Group members are encouraged to be active participants in the various St. Paul’s committees, They currently assist as Acolytes and serving on the Buildings & Grounds, Children’s Ministry, Stewardship committees.