In many Episcopal churches, youth ministry is synonymous with EYC (Episcopal Youth Community). Certainly EYC (Middle & High School “youth group”) is a big part of the youth ministry here at St. Paul’s. In fact, one of the things that excited me the most when I first came to St. Paul’s was the incredible team of college students who help to lead the EYC. It didn’t take me long, however, to discover that there are many exciting ministries involving the 300+ young people here at St. Paul’s. 

One of my responsibilities is to be equally supportive of all of these ministries (1 Corinthians 12:20). Now some, for example EYC or the Youth Choir, have paid support staff, whereas others, such as the Acolytes or Youth Ushers, are lead by volunteers. My hope is that those who are called to a leadership position (staff or volunteers) in these or any of our ministries involving young people would feel supported by the clergy of St. Paul’s. 

I also hope to deepen the sense of community among all of these various ministries. To that end, this Spring we hosted our inaugural Youth Ministries Banquet, with over 200 people attending.  The purpose of this annual event is to (1) celebrate together the good things that our Lord Jesus Christ is doing in our midst through the youth ministries of St. Paul’s, and (2) showcase these ministries to the up-and-coming members of our parish family. 

Youth Ministry at St. Paul’s has a long and rich history, but I believe that our best days are yet to come. I hope you’ll enjoy looking over our website, and that you’ll call on any of the staff of St. Paul’s to answer any questions you may have. 

By His Grace & for His Glory,

The Rev. Thomas P. Murray

June 2008