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

Youth

A Quick Guide to Faith Formation for Youth at Emmanuel

What

The learning & practice of Christian discipleship in the Episcopal/Anglican tradition, in the context of an intentional, committed community of peers & adult mentors, with close attention to the unique joys and challenges encountered by adolescents & teenagers in today’s society.

Why

Because our young people need a God-focused place & context to be vulnerable & honest, to ask the big questions & seek the best answers; to learn new spiritual practices; of playful refuge from the pressure, pace, and anxiety of everyday life; of building Christian solidarity with their peers; of authenticity & creativity directed toward pursuing God, in community; and of opportunities to reach outside themselves in service to others in the name of Christ.

How

Journey Groups for grades 6-12

  • Rite 13 (6th-7th this year; 7th-8th next year)
  • J2A (8th-9th this year; 9th-10th next, and including confirmation instruction)
  • YAC (10th – 11th this year; 11th – 12th next)

Sunday afternoon outings & events (per published schedule)

  • Discussions, presentations, contemplative worship, and supper
  • Field trips& fun
  • Mission / service projects
  • Fundraisers!

Emmanuel Youth Retreat (6th–9th) &2011-12 Kickoff @ Camp Mikell: Sept. 16-18

Diocesan-sponsored youth retreats& events

  • New Beginnings (middle school): Oct. 7-9 @ Camp Fortson*
  • Happening (high school): Nov. 18-20 @ Camp Mikell*
  • Jr. DYC (middle school): Dec. 2-4 @ Camp Mikell
  • Sr. DYC (high school): Jan. 6-8 @ Camp Mikell
  • New Beginnings: Feb. 17-19 @ Camp Mikell*
  • Happening: Feb. 24-26 @ Camp Mikell*
  • Hunger Walk/Run: March 2012
  • *New Beg. & Happening are “one time only” spiritual renewal retreats; though after you’ve been you may apply to return as a volunteer staff member!

At Emmanuel: Rite 13 Celebration & Liturgy (every-two-yrs event for active members of the R13 journey group); J2A Pilgrimage (every-two-years spiritual pilgrimage for active members of the J2A journey group); Mission/service projects & trips (both YAC and all ages); other special gatherings to mark the key passages in the life of each group