Youth Co-Op

Youth Co-Op is a safe, welcoming, and collaborative youth group for students in grades 6–12. Our current partner churches are Lovely Lane, St. Paul’s, and Trinity St. James UMC. We are committed to creating a space where all students are embraced—regardless of race, ethnicity, abilities, gender identity, expression, or sexual orientation. Our ministry provides opportunities for fun, service, learning, and faith exploration in a supportive environment led by caring adults. Students are encouraged to attend when their schedules allow—whether weekly, monthly, or occasionally. Friends are always welcome!

We meet on the 2nd and 4th Sundays of the month at various locations for service projects, community-building activities, fellowship, and opportunities for spiritual growth. We also meet Wednesdays at St. Paul’s for youth group from 6:15–7:30 p.m. Each session begins with sharing our highs and lows, followed by games or activities, and concludes with a lesson that helps students connect their faith to everyday life. Youth build meaningful friendships while growing in their relationship with God in a welcoming and supportive community.

Confirmation

Confirmation is an opportunity to respond to the grace of God available to us, as acknowledged in baptism, and to promise to live as a person of faith. According to a resource on baptism from The United Methodist Church, “Confirmation and reaffirmation are our responses of commitment, profession of faith, and re-dedication.”

Traditionally students participate in confirmation in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade. However, high school students are also welcome to join.

Service-Learning Trips

At St. Paul’s, students have the opportunity to participate in service-learning trips each summer. These trips are typically week-long educational and volunteer opportunities where students and adults work hand-in-hand with community partners in the cities we visit.

Participating in these trips changes students by teaching them to care more about the world around them.

Youth Music

Students in grades 7–12 are invited to join Youth Music on Sunday mornings after worship for a variety of musical experiences that encourage participation in worship and help students grow in their gifts. Youth have opportunities to play handbells and other instruments, sing as a group, participate in drama, and more. Our welcoming and inclusive environment helps students develop their musical skills, deepen their faith, and build meaningful friendships while serving in worship. Youth Music is led by Dr. Mark Baumann, CAGO, Coordinator of Music Ministries.