Mark’s Pastoral Reflection - Watching the next generation take the lead in faith communities.
In October, a group of students from several churches hosted a prayer event at the local KOA Campground. This is a student organized and planned event. Their theme for the event is “Rooted” (their selected verse is Matthew 18:20). Interestingly, this past summer I was engaged in several conversations with our own students at The United Church about the desire to engage with other youth groups. God and His mysterious ways! Join me in prayer as we see the Lord work through the next generation.
CareNet Support - Our collaboration with Youth Ministry and Care Net continues.
Early last month, four of our middle school and high school students participated in a CareNet fundraiser. This is the second year in a row we have partnered with them in their Fall fundraiser. The deep-felt gratitude expressed by CareNet for our helpful students affirms this important relationship. Pray for CareNet and their important work in our community.
Youth Groups - Deep Bible study, intentional prayer times, and relevant discussions are in store for our students…
Our High School youth group have begun their 6-week study on the book of Revelation. We are focusing on the 7 churches in the beginning chapters of the book, and using the Head, Heart, Hands Bible study structure. Our Middle School youth group is entering into the Alpha curriculum series, which covers the basics of the faith, and ties in relevant examples in today’s world of faithfully living out our faith. Both groups are also practicing the ACTS prayer acronym during our prayer times (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication), with a current focus on Adoration. As previously mentioned, we are looking to connect all elements of our youth groups to Imitating Jesus; pray for our youth as we continue this journey.
Youth Sunday School - Learning and connection continue to be the focus during our Sunday School Classes
Our High School students have journeyed through a sampling of the Gospels as they focused on our Savior, and are now studying what it means to have a well-rounded faith. Our Middle School students have recently walked through the Fruits of the Spirit, and are now focused on the everyday-habits of those who follow Jesus. Before their studies, both the Middle School and High School students come together for activity time, which gets them up and moving, all while fostering healthy friendships with one another.
Harvest Potluck Gathering & Advent Decoration Night - A celebratory gathering with our church family…
Join us at 5PM on November 22 for Christmas worship music (led by our high school youth group), a potluck dinner (to celebrate Thanksgiving together), and Advent decorating! Everyone is invited! Check out the Adult Ministry page for our need for volunteer support during this event!
Here is our agenda:
- 4:30pm - High School Worship Band arrives for practice/set up
- 5:00pm - Welcome and Worship (youth lead the time of worship)
- 5:30pm - Thanksgiving-Themed Dinner Potluck (youth will enjoy food with the rest of our church family)
- 6:15pm - Church Advent Decorating (MS/HS students will prioritize upstairs and youth room)
- 7:45pm - End
90-Day Outlook - Save the dates…
- Beaver Camp Fundraiser - November 7
- Harvest Gathering & Advent Decorations - November 22
- The Cause Christmas Party - December 13
- Christmas Mall Trip - December 19
- Christmas Pageant - December 20
- Intergenerational Sunday School Class - January 3, 2027
- Youth Night - January 23, 2027
- Annual Meeting Fundraiser - January 24, 2027
- Women’s Intergenerational Half-Day Retreat - January 30 (9:30am-1:00pm)
Monthly Fellowship Opportunities - Come join us…
- Canandaigua Connect (6th-12th grade) - Second Thursday, 6:45am (Tim Horton’s, across from Tops)
- Game Night - Second Saturday, 6:30pm
