Youth Formation

Over the past year, we have begun the process of re-booting Youth Ministry at Trinity Cathedral. As we re-vision and reinvent this program, some familiar things will change and others will go away, making room for new things to emerge. The mission of the Episcopal Youth Community (EYC) is to educate, encourage and equip young people to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. We seek to support and challenge each other, so that all our minds might be renewed and transformed together, so we might see clearly the will of God for us, for Trinity Cathedral and for the world. Come join us!

Frequently Asked Questions:

• What is the Episcopal Youth Community – EYC? The EYC is the gathering of youth and adult sponsors from Trinity Episcopal Cathedral who meet at various times and places for worship, formation, service and fellowship. It includes all students in the 6th through 12th grades. It is our devout hope to create venues and communities where all young people in our parish will be fed, formed and empowered to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. We also seek to create safe spaces where others could be invited to participate in our fellowship – all young persons are welcome at the Trinity EYC.

• When do they meet? What do they do? The EYC meets weekly on Sunday Mornings during the school year at 10:10 in two groups (Middle School 6-8th Grade, and High School 9-12th Grade) for formation. They also get together monthly for a community event such as bowling, a movie, or a retreat. Several times a year they also take on service projects where they volunteer their time and talents to help people or groups outside of the parish community. Additionally, many members of the EYC participate in our acolyte program where they perform essential functions in the parish worship services. Additional meeting times, venues and service opportunities are currently being discussed and developed. We welcome your ideas and input.

• What happens on Sunday mornings? The Middle School and High School EYC groups each have their own set of committed volunteer youth sponsors who lead them in guided discussions about a variety of topics. These will include an examination of Scripture and our relationship to it as Christians. We will discuss contemporary ideas and current events,especially seeking to understand the Church’s role and teaching in conversation with them. We will also frequently explore our liturgical and theological heritage as Episcopalians. What does it mean to be a Christian in this particular and sometimes peculiar way?

• Where do they meet? Both the Middle School and High School EYC groups have brand new youth house.  The youth house has spaces for education, worship, play, and socializing.  It is spacious, comfortable and multi-media ready.

• Who is in charge of the EYC? Pastoral care and oversight of the Episcopal Youth Community is provided by The
  Rev. Stephen Kidd. This is accomplished in collaboration with the rest of the clergy and staff team of the Cathedral and under the direction of the Dean. Stephen will also be assisted in time by the EYC steering committee, made up of interested youth and adults who will help with visioning, planning and implementing the ministry.

• What about Confirmation? The confirmation process will be slightly different in this format, but still offered to all in the 6th- 12th grades. The first step for any young person interested in confirmation is to be a regular participant in
  the Middle School or High School EYC groups. This is where confirmation preparation will begin for all interested.

• What about Acolytes? The Acolyte programis an essential way that the youth of Trinity offer their gifts to serve in
  this community. Monthly trainings and liturgical education occur as part of the regular EYC rotation.

• How do I know about upcoming events and meetings? EYC events and meetings will always beannounced in a variety of ways. Informationcan be found in the bulletin insert on Sunday mornings and on the parish website
  (www.trinitylittlerock.org). We publisha calendar by semester so parents and youth can plan ahead to participate.
  We also communicate regularly by routine emails as well as through our Facebook page and Twitter feed. Please email Stephen Kidd at skidd@trinitylittlerock.org or call him at 501-372-0294 so he can set you up for whatever way you communicate best, and answer any questions you may have about the EYC of Trinity Cathedral.