Youth Ministry
Bethany Youth Group
The Bethany Youth Group (BYG) meets every other Wednesday from 7-9pm (Sept.-May). We may sit and talk about the week, do a Bible Study, and yes sometimes we just sit and laugh. All of our meetings are a great time and we invite anyone who is 7th to 12th grade to join us. The Youth continue to have wonderful achievements in their faith; some have made huge leaps while others are still exploring what it means to be a Christian. We will continue to move everyone into the path of Jesus and his teachings.
BYG serves at the Lenten suppers and participate in worship by serving as acolytes, readers, and ushers and Sunday nursery. We have several fund raising events during the year to raise money to go on extended field trips and the National Youth Gathering. Bible study and reflection is always the most important part of when the group gathers. Activities that youth participate in throughout the year include working with Habitat for Humanity, going canoeing, camping, mini-golf, skiing, movies, ice fishing, Christian rock concerts including Sonshine, hay rides and other events. The support of the Bethany Lutheran Church congregation is amazing and makes a huge difference in the lives of our youth.
The philosophy behind the group is based on a book called “Frogs Without Legs Can’t Hear” by Dr. Paul Hill and Dr. David Anderson both of The Youth and Family Institute. In the book they outline a 5-4-3 model of faith formation. Five principles, Four Keys, and triple A adults all combine to form faith in the lives of our young people.
FIVE PRINCIPLES for passing on faith
1. Faith is formed by the power of the Holy Spirit through
personal, trusted relationships—often in our own homes.
2. The church is a living partnership between the ministry of
the congregation and the ministry of the home.
3. Where Christ is present in faith, the home is church, too.
4. Faith is caught more than it is taught.
5. If we want Christian children and youth, we need
Christian adults and parents.
FOUR KEYS for daily living
1. Caring Conversations
2. Devotions
3. Service
4. Rituals and Traditions
If we incorporate the five principles, the four keys and triple A adults into the lives of our young people we will not only form faith in youth but will ultimately revitalize our congregation and the church as a whole. Please join us if you are interested in helping in this endeavor.