At Edgewood, youth are not our future – we worship, explore, learn, and play together as the whole people of God. Youth are nurtured, supported, and encouraged to participate in learning events, service projects, outdoor events, camp, worship, and leadership positions according to their interest and enthusiasm for the task at hand.
We offer Sunday School on Sunday mornings, beginning together with worship in the sanctuary and departing for class. Youth class is in session except during spacial multigenerational worship services and Easter. Other days without a class are listed on the calendar and include holiday weekends and dates when we are out on retreats/work/learning trips. (Be sure to sign up for our weekly update with Marcia Beer). On these Sundays youth are strongly encouraged to remain in worship. Classes are led by a small team of experienced teachers who love working with youth. We currently use the Whole People of God Curriculum and are responsive to the interests and passions of class members.
At Edgewood, we believe relationships are essential – and create opportunities to connect people of all ages. An important way to enhance a sense of belonging is through time together, guided discussions of life and faith. Learning together what God is bringing forth today in our lives, in our work, and in our world.
Social justice is a priority at Edgewood. Our youth work to address hunger, homelessness, racial equality, and environmental concerns. We celebrate all types of families, sexual orientations, and faith backgrounds. We participate in the Lansing Pride Parade, AIDS Walk, and CROP Walk. Each year we join together to volunteer at a local, regional, or national non-profit organization to serve and learn. Recently we worked a week with the Morgan Scott Project in Deer Lodge, Tennessee building relationships and ramps for homeowners who would not be able to leave their home unassisted. This year we are traveling to South Dakota to serve with Re-Member in building relationships and minor home repair and cultural learning with the Lakota people. Other trips include Heifer Ranch, Alabama and Rippling Hope in Detroit.
Music brings people of all ages together for fun, for worship, for learning. Many of our youth play musical instruments, sing, and are members of the youth handbell choir. We meet each Sunday, September – June beginning at 11:30 to rehearse bells and vocal ensemble and at other times for those who play instruments and would like to provide music for the worship service. JoAnn Hubbard and Marcia Beer are co-directors for youth music.
Our youth fellowship program is project focused and planned with youth to meet their learning, growth, and social needs. We are open and affirming of LGTBQ youth.
If you have questions, Marcia Beer, Youth Ministry Coordinator may be reached at marcia@edgewooducc.org or by phone at 517 375 2977. If you are looking for a place youth feel supported, nurtured, and engaged Edgewood would love to meet you!