Youth Ministry

We believe that all young people and adults who are involved in youth ministry have been called by God. God's word is what shapes us and shapes our youth ministry. It provides a foundation for all that we do. We want our youth program to be a safe place where young people can find significant adult friends and a wonderful peer group who will listen, support, and help them develop skills that will last them a lifetime. The youth are involved in the life and ministry of the church in a variety of ways.

Worship

. . . is central to the Christian Community. At First Presbyterian youth are involved in a number of different ways.

Youth Sunday

More information coming soon . . .

Exploration / Education

. . . is a cornerstone of church life in the reformed tradition. Through various activities in our youth program, youth are encouraged to worship Christ with their minds as well as their hearts. We explore and learn about a variety of different topics throughout the year. We have Bible studies, learn about the effects of drugs and alcohol, learn how to cope with stress, etc.

Service

. . . God calls us "out." Mission, at home and abroad, is another way we worship God in faith and life. The youth at First Presbyterian participate in mission and service projects both locally and away from home.

We understand mission trips to be. . .

Windows through which to see the world and God's vision for it in new ways Mirrors in which to see ourselves, our church, and our culture more clearly Doorways through which we enter into deeper fellowship with God and our neighbor Voices through which we may hear God's call to us

Local Mission

Our program has worked with Caroline's House (home for battered women), Martha's Mission, The Carolina House, shut-ins, and many other groups.

Away From Home Mission

2004 Mission Trips – The Mid High group went to Charlotte to work with The Cross Program and the Sr. High group went to New York City to work with YSOP (Youth Service Opportunities Project). (see photos)

2005 Mission Trips – The Mid High and Sr. High groups went to Washington, DC to work with the Pilgrimage Service and Learning Center and Hostel. During our stay at the Pilgrimage we focused on issues surrounding hunger and homelessness, as well as ways in which people of faith have responded to these critical issues.

2006 Mission Trips – Our Sr. High group traveled to Mexico to do work

Fellowship

. . . Life as a young person in a community of faith certainly means fellowship. At First Presbyterian we have tons of fun as we grow in our faith. Throughout the year, we take time out to simply have fun, get to know each other better, and to make our group stronger. We go skiing every year, go bowling, have scavenger hunts, sing karaoke, and do lots of other fun things! Click here for pictures of the most recent bowling outing, the Jonathan Tasker Concert, and the Youth Luncheon. (see photos)