Ministry to children, youth, and families is an important part of the mission of the Saint Paul Area Synod. One of the best ways we can train and equip leaders for mission locally and globally is to be attentive to the spiritual well being of the youngest in our churches.

The core leadership team for children, youth and family ministry of the Saint Paul and Minneapolis Area Synods has a common mission: “To support, empower and develop children, youth and family ministries to nurture discipleship for leaders and congregations.” Comprised of 12 members from both synods and staff from both synods, the committee works to provide fellowship events, networking opportunities, and other support to congregations, ministers, and the young people with whom they serve.

Our Core SEEDS

At the very core of the steering committee’s work are five functions or seeds:
Support: To network ministers, to advocate for the ministry, and to provide an atmosphere of renewal.
Encourage: To pray constantly, offer blessings, and have regular devotions.
Enable: To provide leadership and offer training and resources to those engaged in these vital ministries.
Develop: To help congregations evaluate their current ministries, envision future ministries, and discern plans of action.
Share: To collaborate together, connect as fellow children of God, and work collegially to continue God’s work in the world through children, youth, and family ministries.

Take a look at our core seeds >

Programs

Several ongoing programs and events are supported by the committee which relate to these functions:
Celebration of Confirmation
Companion Synod:  Connections
Gatherings: Ascension Day breakfast, welcome lunches for new children, youth and family workers, networking lunch at Extravaganza, Twin Cities Urban Youth Ministry Network, other area networks
Spiritual Retreat: A time for prayer and renewal together with others working in the field.
Recharge: Annual training event for leaders in children, youth, and family ministries
ELCA Youth Gathering:  Adult leader training and communications.
Connections Newsletter: A quarterly newsletter for all those interested in children, youth, and family ministries in the Twin Cities.
News and Notes: E-newsletters sent periodically to children, youth, and family ministers  in each synod.
LYNC: Lutheran Youth Networking in Christ

In addition, Connections and the synodical e-newsletters and websites provide information on the many events relating to children, youth, and family ministries which occur in the Twin Cities.

Core Leadership Team for Children, Youth, and Family Ministry
Saint Paul Area Synod

Don Marsh, AIM; Augustana Lutheran, West St. Paul
The Rev. TJ Anderson, Trinity Lutheran, Stillwater
Joe Rand, Chisago Lake Lutheran, Center City
Cassie Nault, Pilgrim, St. Paul
The Rev. Susan Miller, Assistant to the Bishop for Congregational Life and Mission