Emmanuel Episcopal Church, Athens Georgia
Four pictures of Emmanuel young people

Youth

Welcome to the pages devoted to Emmanuel’s youth group.

The youth group is also known as the EYC (Episcopal Youth Community). 

If you have already browsed the pages under the "Formation/Youth" heading in the main menu, then you know Emmanuel youth take part in the Journey to Adulthood program (J2A). The pages under the "Youth" menu entry concentrate on EYC activities that take place on Sunday evenings, although there is a lot of overlap.

The Journey to Adulthood curriculum used in the Sunday school and EYC celebrates the growth of 6th - 12th grade youth through adolescence. While there are numerous opportunities for youth involvement at Emmanuel, this combined program is truly a youth ministry. A major goal of this ministry is to provide opportunities for these young people to recognize God's presence in the everyday activities of their lives, as summarized in the mission statement generated a few years ago by the kids, their parents, and the youth leaders:

As an integral part of the Church's ministry, the youth program is an exciting and fun-filled program which offers opportunity for the expression and development of Christian faith. This is accomplished through outreach, education, fun, fellowship, and leadership development in a safe and trusting environment that encourages the development of self-esteem and confidence.

Our EYC is split into four age groups:

  • 6th-7th Graders (Rite-13)

  • 8th-9th Graders (J2A)

  • 10th-11th Graders (YAC)

  • 12th Graders

For all of EYC, we strive for a balance in service projects, special programs, and of course fun and fellowship activities. This year we will participate in several outreach projects, a parish youth retreat at Camp Mikell, and cleaning Oconee Hills Cemetery for All Saints' Day. The diocese also hosts a number of youth retreats, mission experiences, and gatherings throughout the year.

The EYC meets in the Christian Connection on Sundays at 5:00 pm. All groups join together for dinner in the Common Room from 6:30 - 7:00. A $3.00 dinner donation is suggested.