The Youth Group Program

What does it take to motivate teenagers to willingly get out of bed on Sunday morning week after week? It takes something significant, something of substance, something of value.

That something is the meeting of hearts, minds, and spirits that has been Leigh Rochelle-Woodley's gift to the youth of this church through the past several years. She has earned the acceptance and trust of the youth. She has connected with them in profound ways. She has been their spiritual guide.

What does it take to connect with youth? It takes an authentic person, committed to seeking spiritual truth, open to the evolving views of young minds. It takes someone who can listen intensely and love immensely. Leigh has been all of these things, and more.

Under Leigh's guidance, Middle School and Senior High youth groups meet on Sunday mornings at 9:50 a.m. (in a room which they have painted themselves as they work to create their own special space!) for fellowship, service projects, and spiritual explorations of the Bible and topics relevant to the lives of young people. Fellowship events are also offered periodically at other times during the week

Over the years, summer mission trips have included trips to work on a Heifer Project ranch, to work with Native Americans in Arizona, and to help refurbish homes of low income families in West Virginia. A future trip to Nicaragua is in the early planning stages. The congregation supports the youth enthusiastically as the youth prepare and serve lunches, sell sub sandwiches, and offer baked goods to raise money for these mission trips.