Children, Youth & Family Ministry

The Saint Paul Area Synod and the Minneapolis Area Synod partner to support, encourage, enhance and develop Children, Youth and Family (CYF) Ministry in our congregations as they share the good news of Jesus Christ.

The CYF Team exists as a resource for congregations, CYF staff and volunteers. Whether you are just beginning an intentional CYF ministry, or if your congregation already has a robust program, the CYF Team is here to connect with and support you. This is done throughout the year with regular events, learning opportunities, and meet-and-greets, as well as being a resource for all things CYF.

Facebook Group

One of the best ways to connect with other CYF folks in the area is through the Twin Cities CYF ELCA Facebook group. This is an active group for collaboration, encouragement and support! Whether you’re paid staff or a volunteer, we invite you to join the conversation!

Events

The CYF Team holds regular events throughout the year. Specific details about these events appear on the calendar page of our website, as well as the synod Facebook page and the Twin Cities CYF ELCA Facebook group. During the school year there are monthly children’s ministry gatherings and monthly youth ministry gatherings on specific topics of interest. In addition, the CYF team holds these annual events:

  • Welcome Event: The Welcome Event is designed to introduce recent arrivals to the Twin Cities’ synods who work or volunteer with children, youth, and family ministries. This event connects you with other people who are passionate about CYF ministries. 
  • Synod Lunch at the Youth Ministry Extravaganza: Join other youth leaders from the Twin Cities for lunch and conversation during the national Youth Ministry Extravaganza. 
  • Ascension Day Breakfast: Celebrate the year of ministry with worship and conversation with other CYF workers and volunteers. 

 

Resources

The CYF Team keeps a list of up-to-date resources. These resources include books, movies, curriculum, retreat centers, camps, trips, continuing education, and other networks. Click here for the resource list.

Synod Newsletter

Subscribe to the synod’s weekly newsletter for news and events related to CYF ministry and other activities around the synod. Click here to subscribe!

Questions?

Have a question that the resource list can’t answer? One of the CYF Team representatives from this synod can help!

  • Rachelle Gill – Easter Kids Director at Easter Lutheran Church, Eagan – rgill@easter.org
  • Ashley Greenwood – Deacon of Youth & Family Faith Formation at Gloria Dei, St. Paul – ashley@gloriadeistpaul.org
  • The Rev. Jen Rome – pastor at Pilgrim Lutheran Church, St. Paul – pastorjenrome@pilgrimstpaul.org
  • Josh Svenulski – Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministries at Christus Victor Lutheran Church, Apple Valley – josh@christusvictor.org
  • Kelsey Young – Director of Children, Youth, and Family Ministry at Shepherd of the Valley, Apple Valley – kelsey.young@sotv.org