Children, Youth & Family

CYF ministry in this synod

Ministry to children, youth, and families is an important part of the mission of the Saint Paul Area Synod. One of the best ways we can train and equip leaders for mission locally and globally is to be attentive to the spiritual well being of the youngest in our churches.

The core leadership team for children, youth, and family ministry of the Saint Paul Area and Minneapolis Area Synods is comprised of 12 members and staff. The committee works to provide fellowship events, networking opportunities, and other support to congregations, ministers, and the young people with whom they serve.

Our Core SEEDS

At the very core of the steering committee’s work are five functions or seeds:

Support. To network ministers, to advocate for the ministry, and to provide an atmosphere of renewal.
Encourage. To pray constantly, offer blessings, and have regular devotions.
Enable. To provide leadership and offer training and resources to those engaged in these vital ministries.
Develop. To help congregations evaluate their current ministries, envision future ministries, and discern plans of action.
Share. To collaborate together, connect as fellow children of God, and work collegially to continue God’s work in the world through children, youth, and family ministries.

Programs

Several ongoing programs and events are supported by the committee which relate to these functions:

Gatherings: Ascension Day Breakfast, welcome lunches for new children, youth, and family workers, networking lunch at Extravaganza, Twin Cities Urban Youth Ministry Network, other area networks
Spiritual Retreat: A time for prayer and renewal together with others working in the field.
Recharge: Annual training event for leaders in children, youth, and family ministries
ELCA Youth Gathering: Adult leader training and communications. www.elca.org/youthgathering
News and Notes: E-newsletters sent periodically to children, youth, and family ministers in each synod.
LYNC: Lutheran Youth Networking in Christ

In addition, the synodical e-newsletters and websites provide information on the many events relating to children, youth, and family ministries which occur in the Twin Cities. Minneapolis Area Synod Youth and Family page