More Than a Youth Group

At St. Andrew’s, Youth Ministry is more than just another thing to do during the week for our local middle schoolers and high schoolers; it is a place where students can grow in their faith, build friendships, and have fun while being fully themselves. We want every middle and high school student who walks through our doors to know they are loved, valued, and welcomed exactly as they are.

One of the things that makes our Youth Ministry so special is the wide range of students involved. From students just entering middle school to seniors preparing to step into the real world, every stage of life is represented. It creates a unique community where younger students can look up to older ones, and older students can encourage and support those coming behind them.

On any given Sunday, you can find us playing games, laughing together, worshipping, eating snacks, having small group conversations, and learning more about God. Every week is different, but every week is centered around building community and growing closer to Christ together.

Throughout the year, we also spend a lot of time outside the church walls. Whether it is camps, retreats, service projects, or fun outings around the community, there is always something happening in Youth Ministry. These moments give students the chance to connect with one another, step outside their comfort zones, and make memories that last long after graduation.

Our youth are all around the life of the church, not just on Sundays in youth group. Every week you can see them serving in Kids Ministry on Sunday mornings, helping lead and care for younger children, and jumping in wherever they’re needed. They also show up throughout the year in different seasons of church life like in the fall at events like The Pumpkin Patch. In the winter, you’ll find them at the 11pm Christmas Eve worship service and helping decorate the Christmas tree in the courtyard. In the spring, youth are present at meaningful services like Good Friday. These are moments they show up for, and they look forward to being part of these key events in the life of the church every year. 

Serving others is also a huge part of who we are. Our students have opportunities to serve through local ministries, church events, and mission trips. This summer, our youth will be traveling to Boston for a mission trip where they will partner with local organizations and serve communities in need. We believe mission work helps students live out their faith in meaningful and hands-on ways while learning what it means to be the hands and feet of Christ. For me, mission work has always had a special place in my heart thanks to the work my parents have done, and I am glad to share my love of missions with our youth. 

Youth Ministry is a place where students can grow in their faith, build meaningful friendships, and walk through life together. It is about walking through life together, asking questions, encouraging one another, and growing in faith side by side. We are grateful for the students, leaders, and families that make this ministry such a special place, and we are excited to continue seeing how God moves through the next generation.

Aubrey Warren

Director of Youth Ministry

St. Andrew's UMC-Brandon

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