Youth and Family Ministry: Building Connections

Every month, I look forward to sharing stories and updates from our Youth and Family Ministry. It’s inspiring to see how our community grows stronger through faith, fellowship, and fun aka"EF3" (more on that later). This month, I want to reflect on some recent events that brought our kids and families together and highlight ways everyone can get involved in the coming weeks. Whether you’re a teen looking for meaningful ways to serve or a parent hoping to support your child’s spiritual journey, there’s something here for you.

Growing Godly Play

We are now able to hold Sunday School twice a month. A huge thank you to Judy Quilter and Pat Anderson who answered the call to attend a half day training with me in Fredericksburg on June 30 to St. George Church to wortk with Dr. Rev. Rosemary Beales. We got a very informative primer on how to work in the Godly Play curriculum and saw first hand the kind of impact that this extension of our ministry can have on our young parishioners. We are very excited to build this program! If you are interested in learning more about Godly Play and the Sunday School curriculum, please reach out to youth@christchurchparish.com for more information. Upcoming Godly Play teacher training events will be listed below.

Fine Arts Camp - Fun and Games

We had a great time coordinating the games and "recess" time during the Fine Arts Camp. On Monday, we tried our hand at cornhole. It was a tough day for tossing bags as the heat was pretty brutal that day. On Tuesday, we stayed inside and did board games like checkers, Guess Who, Uno and more. Then we ramped up the excitement with a vigorous Bingo tournment! Wednesday, the boys vs. the girls for a fun kickball game. We really appreciate the kids and their upbeat attitudes during the camp. It was a lot of fun.

Upcoming Events to Mark on Your Calendar

Looking ahead, we have several exciting events planned that invite both kids and families to participate:

• Aug. 2 - Blessing of the Backpacks (Special Sermon and Prayer for Teachers and Students for the 2026-27 school year)

• Aug. 8 - Back 2 School Bash (Camp Piankatank) Vendor Table giving away swag to families

• Aug 15 - Children's Day (West Point Farmer's Market) Vendor Table giving away swag to families

• Godly Play & Sunday School: 1st and 3rd Sundays at 10:30am. We will join the parents during the exchange of the Peace during the service.

• Godly Play Teacher Training: Aug. 16, & Nov. 1

  • Training will consist of watching the day's lesson during the 10:30 service and then meeting to review materials, curriculum and methodology.

• EF3: An Evening of Faith, Fun and Fellowship

  • We are going to begin hosting a series of events to encourage middle and high school students to share one Saturday a month with us during the school year.

  • These events will include a trivia night, a blessing of the athletes, nature walks and more. A schedule will be posted to this page in the coming weeks. Stay tuned.

    
    

Each event offers a unique way to grow in faith and connect with others. I encourage parents to bring their kids and teens to these gatherings. They are designed to be fun and meaningful, creating memories while strengthening our community bonds.

Ways to Serve the Church

One of the most rewarding aspects of our ministry is seeing young people and their families serve side by side. Here are some practical ways you can get involved:

• Here is a list of opportunities for you to serve: 

  • Serving in the Nursery (available each Sunday during 10:30 services)

  • Sunday School/Godly Play Instructor

  • Serving as acolyte and/or crucifer (during the 10:30 services)

  • Singing in the choir (during the 10:30 services)

  • Learning to become Eucharist Minister - the person assisting Randi during communion (during the 10:30 services)

  • Rhythms of Grace Camp - June 2027

  • Fine Arts Camp - June 2027

  • Creation Care Garden  (Reach out to Allison Holt for more information - alyson.costnerholt@richmond.edu)

  • Various Ministry Service Breakfast/Dinner Volunteer (various dates and hours - see the calendar for events)

  • Diocese Youth Delegation in 2027

  • Coordinating and working with a grounds crew to clean the cemetery and landscaping of church and hall

    
    

  There are many ways to serve the church and its parishioners other than what is listed here. If you have other ideas, I'd love to hear them. 

  
  

Serving together not only benefits others but also deepens your family’s faith and connection. It teaches kids the value of giving and shows them how faith comes alive through action.

Faith grows best in community, and our Youth and Family Ministry is a place where kids and parents can explore, serve, and celebrate together. I hope you’ll join us at the next event and discover the joy of building connections that last.