At St. John’s, we are passionate about equipping our 6th through 12th graders to go out into the world to share their love of Christ with their friends and neighbors. On Sunday mornings, our youth are serving at the altar, reading at the lectern, and meeting for BCD (Bible. Conversation. Donuts.). Youth nights on Sunday are a time for dinner, discussion, and fun, while discussion-based small groups such as Waffle House Wednesdays, Compline at Cascades Park, and after-school talks over burgers fill the week. Youth Commission and Global Philanthropy Leaders are ways students serve in leadership positions.
An important part of our youth programs is the opportunity for outreach. Students from all over Tallahassee serve at St. John’s week-long community service camp called B.E.A.T. Week (Being Extraordinary Around Tallahassee). Middle and high school students look forward to participation in domestic and international mission trips each summer, and return with new perspectives and appreciation for the gifts of this life.
St. John’s supports a lively children’s ministry program full of excitement and many opportunities for our youngest parishioners to get involved and learn about God’s love. Our New Baby Ministry supports families from the start by providing prayers, meal delivery, and a support system for our parish newborns. We continue to love and nurture our children through a thriving nursery, Children’s Chapel, and Sunday School programs.
Our children joyfully participate in opportunities to serve during worship. They carry oblations, read the Decalogue during Lent, light candles during Advent processionals, and serve as acolytes. St. John’s also offers a variety of special programs. Club 45, designed for our 4th and 5th graders, prepares them for the transition to our Youth Program by offering monthly opportunities for fun, fellowship, and service. St. John’s Vacation Bible School is a week full of energy and enthusiasm and provides a special opportunity for our oldest campers to serve on the St. John’s Service Squad and Community Outreach.