At our Parish, Youth Ministries are an essential part of what we do. Between our CLB, Youth Group, Nursery, Godly Play, The Canadian Lutheran Anglican Youth (CLAY), and God’s Positioning System (GPS) we have a diverse group of young people that are engaged in, and an active part of, our Parish family.
Church Lads’ Brigade (C.L.B.)
The C.L.B. was founded in 1891 in London, England and through the efforts of a young Newfoundlander, Harold Blackler, the first C.L.B. overseas unit was started in St. John’s in 1892. Today, the C.L.B. in NL has 14 Companies, 1 Army Cadet Corps, and 1 Navy League Corps spread across the Avalon Peninsula, from St. John’s to New Harbour, and one Company on the Bonavista Peninsula in Trinity East/Port Rexton; in total over 500 members strong!
The objective of the Brigade is, through educational, recreational and social activities, to help youth develop the necessary skills to become future leaders. The C.L.B is open to all youth and is divided into five age groups:
- Little Training Corps (LTC) – grades K and 1,
- Young Training Corps (YTC) – grades 2 – 4,
- Junior Training Corps (JTC) – grades 5 – 7,
- Senior Corps (SC) – grades 8 – 12,
- Officers – ages 19+
Youth Group
We have a combined group of youth from the parish of the Good Shepherd, The Ascension, St, Mary’s, The Cathedral and St. Michael’s ranging from ages 10-20. We gather twice a month to share in a time of fellowship and sharing Jesus’ example through acts of kindness, outreach, fundraising, games, crafts and food.
Nursery
The space is made available in the worship space for children between the ages of 0-4. Children are under parental supervision and can be creative in play while still being present in the service. We have a change table, books, toys, rocking chair and other items to make this experience enriching and safe for all.
Godly Play
Godly Play teaches children the art of using Christian language – parable, sacred story, silence and liturgical action – helping them become more fully aware of the mystery of God’s presence in their lives. It’s about understanding how each of the stories of God’s people connects with the child’s own experience and relationship with God. Godly Play respects the innate spirituality of children and encourages curiosity and imagination in experiencing the mystery and joy of God.
Our parish had certified Godly Play instructors who meet each Sunday with children ages 5-11 during the 11am worship. If you would like more information please contact the office.
The Canadian Lutheran Anglican Youth (CLAY)
Is a program of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Canada (ELCIC) and the Anglican Church in Canada bringing together youth age 14-19 years old and their leaders for programming related to a certain theme. Every second-year youth from our parishes attend this event. They raise the funds needed for travel and registration. The youth who attend thoroughly enjoy their experience and return to their parishes sharing what they have learned with other youth.
The Goals of Our Gatherings
- To proclaim the grace and faithfulness of God revealed to us in Jesus Christ.
- To respond to God’s grace and faithfulness in ways that are intentional, practical and meaningful.
- To celebrate that, by the grace of God, we are children of God.
- To celebrate the Full Communion relationship of the ELCIC and the ACC and encourage youth to live out that relationship in their home contexts.
God’s Positioning System (GPS)
This Diocesan Youth Conference is for youth, from grade 7 and up, to come together to discover how faith is an important part of everyday life. Through guest speakers, outreach initiatives and other activities, youth have an opportunity to explore their faith with other young people from all across the Diocese.