Youth and Outreach

"After completing our second day of work with Teameffort, we have already accomplished more than they expected. The families that we have helped have been incredibly thankful....Their reactions give me a tremendous sense of accomplishment. Helping these people and pulling them out of a rough patch in their life has greatly affected me. It inspires me to make my first priority helping others, because caring for others is much more satisfying than caring for yourself. God has blessed us to change lives." --Ranny Burke, July 20, 2011, writing from Jacksonville, FL

"When I first signed up for this trip I thought it would be only building houses and the occasional short chapel. But when I arrived here I learned that it was so much more. Every evening we have an amazing chapel service in which we praise God and learn about his great love for us. Each chapel has a theme: come, thirst, believe, trust, follow, and they are taught to us each day with evening talks and testimonies ( a testimony is a personal love letter to God) from the staff here. There are also many other church groups here who are strong in their faith and an inspiration to us.

"When I left for this trip I thought I would only learn how to paint or build, but after this week I have learned just how wonderful it is to be a Christian and I feel that I have grown stronger in my faith and my love for Jesus Christ." --Fig Stallings, July 22, 2011, writing from Jacksonville, FL

Looking for a way to get involved? Young people participate in mission, outreach and volunteer activities at St. Stephen's. St. Stephen's teenagers and young adults have gone to the Gulf Coast to help with post-hurricane clean-up and rebuilding; they've participated in one-day mission trips to CrossOver Ministry's Cowardin Avenue clinic; they've provided assistance at Peter Paul Development Center in the East End; they've helped with summer enrichment activities for East End youngsters at St. Stephen's.

Mission trips and pilgrimages that take place when students are on school breaks are a wonderful opportunity for youth. Rising middle and high school students also help with Vacation Bible School, the Farmers Market, the parish blood drives, the food pantry and many other opportunities at St. Stephen’s and in the wider community. Call Deb Lawrence (288.2867) or send her an email for more information.

Visit our outreach pages, too.

Last summer, high school youth participated in an Urban Adventure in New York City; middle schoolers took part in an in-town mission experience involving working during the day at Peter Paul Development Center and participating in recreational activities at night; and high school youth traveled to Jacksonville, Florida to do home repair for low-income families.

Mission Trip Vouchers

Each young person, upon being confirmed by one of our bishops, receives a voucher from the Diocese of Virginia good for $200 towards the expense of a mission trip, to be used before age 18. Download the application for a voucher from the Diocesan website here. For information, contact Matt Johnson, or call the diocesan office at 643.8451.