Older Youth and Young Adults at St. Andrew's

We believe that Christian formation begins at home. Young people are profoundly influenced by their parents, even when it does not appear to be so. When your children see you pray and draw on your faith on a daily basis, and participate in the life of the church, they will similarly develop a strong foundation of faith.

At St. Andrew's, our formation program is meant to complement the faith learned at home. Parents are encouraged to talk about the topics raised during Sunday afternoon classes, as well as to further their own Christian formation by taking advantage of the adult formation opportunities offered.

Journey to Adulthood Program Youth Grade 6-12

St. Andrew's offers the Journey to Adulthood program for the formation of our young people. It uses Bible study, prayer, rites of passage, outreach ministries and both serious and playful activities to underscore its two guidingprinciples: manhood and womanhood are free gifts from God; and, adulthood must be earned.

Journey to Adulthood meets most Sunday afternoons during the academic year at 4:30 p.m.  The classes end with a celebration of the Eucharist or Night Prayer at 6 p.m.  For some families, this is an alternative to attending a liturgy earlier in the weekend. 

There are three two-year segments of the program (click here for more detailed information about Journey to Adulthood):

Rite-13: The first two years that focus on celebrating the individuality of each young person and their creative potential. The Rite-13 liturgy (A celebration of Manhood and Womanhood) is the community expression of this and a rite of passage form childhood towards adulthood .

J2A: The middle portion of the program engages youth with the skills and critical thinking involved in adulthood. The youth plan and embark on a pilgrimage together at the end of this segment.  J2A also prepares young people for Confirmation (an adult affirmation of the Baptismal Covenant).  Confirmation is generally held in the spring at Christ Church Cathedral in Springfield. 

YAC: This is a mentor-based program that helps older teens discern and carry out a ministry within their church or in the larger community.

We encourage our young people to find ways to be a part of the life of the parish. Some ways in which they may participate and serve are:

   Acolytes and crucifers: participating and assisting in worship services on a scheduled, rotating basis.
   Youth or adult choir: depending on age and availability, young people may choose to sing with the youth or adult choir.
   Nursery care or Faith Flight teachers: assisting with the care and formation of younger children.

For more information on any of the above, contact the rector by emailing: e-mail rector@st-andrews-longmeadow.org, or by calling the parish office 413-567-5901.