Youth Engagement
In many ways, the youth are the heartbeat of the Wythe congregation, providing enthusiasm, creativity and joy in worship and beyond.
This group meets monthly for food and fellowship, and more often for service opportunities as they arise:
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Volunteering to cook and serve meals for A Night’s Welcome, the winter shelter for people without an indoor place to stay.
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Volunteering to sort donated items at the Peninsula Food Bank.
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Helping to set up yard sales with thousands of items
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Ringing handbells in worship, working as a team to glorify God.
This past summer, the youth learned about the causes of poverty and tangible ways to address it through a week-long mission trip with Asheville Youth Mission in NC. They helped prepare for a weekly meal that would serve 700 unhoused people, painted rooms in a church building and collected all kinds of trash. They played games with people who have suffered traumatic brain injury.
Through these experiences, the youth gained new awareness about some of the problems people face and developed a deep respect for the people who strive to serve those who need help.
The Wythe Presbyterian youth truly enjoy each other and share each others’ burdens.
They genuinely look forward to the next opportunity to be together. The friendships are deep and meaningful, and they have a strong connection with the adult leadership. The congregation values their service and provides opportunities to lead.