Youth and Family Strategy
Jesus said, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these." Jesus’ words show how much God cares for young people.
In 2012 the elders of Stormont Presbyterian church approved a youth and children’s ministry strategy.
Our vision is defined as, ”... that Stormont Presbyterian church will be a place where children and young people want to come because they are welcomed and accepted with grace as part of a church family of all ages; they are valued by being listened to and given opportunities to actively participate; they come to a growing, enduring faith and secure identity in Christ.”
The strategy is underpinned by values, which we hope will characterise all done in this area:
Positive attitudes
Loving environment
Spiritual growth
Prayer
Strong leadership
Meaningful relationships
Safe environment
There are six aims in the strategy to help fulfil the vision which are:
Getting our structures right; appointing the best possible leaders and supporting them; discipling young people as part of an intergenerational community; engaging young people with, and involving them in, worship; reaching out to young people within and without the congregation and ensuring the active participation of young people in the church’s decision making processes.
The key elements to the strategy are:
Promotion of the vital role which children and young people have in the church now and its future
Appointment of a staff member to coordinate Youth & Family Work
Increased partnership between church leadership, volunteer leaders, parents and young people
Investment in leadership amongst our youth and children’s ministry
Establish a budget for Children’s, Youth and Family Ministry
Some of these elements have already happened and others are in progress.
What can I do? Pray for our young people. Volunteer to help out in one of our many organisations
By simply showing an interest in our young people by talking with them.