We love young people here at Bethesda! In a recent survey, Bethesda members said the #1 thing we do well here is love and support youth and children. Our Youth Programs provide a way for children and teens to grow their faith and friendships.

These four legs support the “Welcome Table” for youth:

• Staff: Every pastor is a youth programs pastor! Pastor Tom oversees Confirmation and High School Youth Ministries and Pastor Sarah oversees Children’s Ministries.
• Volunteers: Many adults volunteer on a weekly, or regular basis with our Middle and High School youth programs.
• Youth Ministry Team: A team of parents, volunteers, and staff meets regularly to carry the vision and support of Bethesda’s youth programs.
• Supportive Congregation: Bethesda’s people are committed to praying for youth, including them in worship, providing leadership opportunities, and giving generously to subsidize every trip or retreat experience, so that no one will be turned away for lack of money.

Youth & Family Ministry

We continue to see new youth getting connected. We have had to begin splitting middle and high school into separate discussion groups, as we don’t fit around the same circle!

We use a teaching approach that mixes the Bible with Luther’s Small Catechism, and reinforce the “3 B’s” of youth group: Belong, Believe, Become. That youth group would be a community where every person feels they can belong.

As we bring the Bible and Catechism into conversation with adolescent concerns and realities, belief and trust in Jesus deepens. The gift of belonging to and believing in Jesus causes us to become different people. Our attitudes, behaviors, and practices get shaped in a positive direction by Christian faith and friendship.

High School Youth Group

Our last two “official” youth group Wednesdays are June 5 and 12. On the 12th, we’re going to the Eugene Emeralds baseball game! Many of our youth have never been. If you want to join us, the cost is $15. Contact Deanna Rivera.