Report from the LCY for 2016

“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Mathew 5:16

As I read this scripture from Mathew, I can’t help but think of the youth we have here at St. Jacobs. We are so blessed to have such a talented group of young people who are willing to share their gifts in our congregation and elsewhere. They serve as a wonderful example of what God can do with His children when they a willing to shine their lights in the world.

It is a fun and exciting time for our youth as they continue let their “Light” shine!! Here are some of the examples of Outreach that SJY (St. Jacobs Youth) accomplished during 2016:

• During our trip to the Coastal Retreat Center we enjoyed fellowship and fun in the sun, but we also gave the retreat center a thorough cleaning before we left.
• The kids decorated pumpkins and wrote card to some of our congregational members.
• SJY assisted the Lutheran Women with the Easter Egg hunt and Christmas caroling.
• Our youth participated in a Homeless Lock-in. While there was fun and faith building we also made blankets to give to our shut-ins.
• The youth planned and lead worship for the congregation during Youth Sunday.
• Our youth helped the Christian Education Committee during this year’s Vacation Bible School.
• A Youth Planning Committee has been established and it has given the youth and parents the opportunity to take ownership in planning activities for SJY.
• The Youth Choir has been established and they are now singing one Sunday a month.

This year has been filled with opportunities for our youth to grow in their faith and to fellowship with their friends while participating in variety of fun activities. Some of these activities included: Partying at the Lake, the BBQ, going to Carowinds, visiting Congaree National Park, Christmas Caroling, and a monthly Bible Study.

Besides all the fun and outreach…St. J’s middle and high school kids have taken on active roles in our congregation. They can be seen serving as acolytes, lay readers, communion assistants, instrumentalist, vocalist, and teaching VBS classes. With such a great group of young people who are willing to serve…the future looks bright for St. Jacobs!

A GREAT BIG THANK YOU to the Congregation for your support and for volunteering your time to chaperone and facilitate events for our youth this year…we couldn’t do it without you!

Peace & Love,

Dawn