Epiphany Children & Youth

Being Brave

Last week, our youth presented their art projects in the gallery after church. Students and parents were moved by the response our parish offered these young artists. People showed up. They engaged thoughtfully, asked meaningful questions, and purchased artwork. Thank you to everyone who helped make this event a success.

In reflecting afterward with one of our parents, we talked about why opportunities like this matter. Many of our youth felt uncertain, hesitant to share their work, a bit anxious about speaking with others. But, they showed up.

In recent weeks, our youth have been exploring the Book of Psalms. In the Psalms, we encounter a full range of human emotion. Some psalms are filled with praise and wonder; others give voice to grief, anger, and questioning. When I asked our students how it feels to read such honest expressions, especially of emotions often labeled “negative,” their responses varied. Some said it brought relief, making their own feelings feel more valid. Others admitted it made them uncomfortable. We don’t need to hear people questioning God in the Bible. We need to know that Christians can be strong, and brave.

But the Psalms suggest something deeper: that faith does not require us to choose between being afraid or being brave. Instead, faith invites us into the both/and, into trusting God and acting on faith, while acknowledging our fear and uncertainty.

Later that same Sunday, our youth and their families gathered for a bowling night at Comet Lanes. A few of our youth had never bowled before and were pretty nervous about giving it a try. But, much like our youth artists, they decided to be brave and to put themselves out there.

Our students are remarkably brave. They step forward as artists, readers, acolytes, and leaders, offering their gifts with honesty and heart. One of the things I value most about Epiphany is our shared commitment to teaching young people that church is a place they can come when they feel afraid or uncertain. Thank you for creating a community that gives our students the support and encouragement they need to be brave.

-Taylor

This Week

Formation

Formation continues this Sunday!

Room 205 - Godly Play, ages 3 - 2nd Grade
Room 206 - Children's Formation, 3rd - 5th Grade
Donut Den - Youth Formation, 6th - 12th

Youth Group

Thank you to everyone who came to Family Bowling Night last week! This week, youth group is back at Epiphany. We will be making bird houses in the courtyard and enjoying the Spring weather.

Upcoming Events

For a full list of upcoming events, please see the Calendars below.

Children's Calendar

Youth Calendar

Youth Group Schedule

Our annual Youth Sunday and graduate recognition is Sunday, May 3. Youth are invited to serve in a variety of ways during this service.

If your youth is interested in participating in the youth Sunday service, please contact Taylor at tirwin@epiphany.org by Sunday, April 19.

Graduation Celebration

This year's Diocesan Graduation Ceremony will take place at Epiphany! The service will feature youth musicians, readers, and preachers and Bishop Wright will officiate the Eucharist. A dessert reception will be held afterwards in the parish hall.

Dinner with Littles

We invite all families with "littles" (newborn through kindergarten + any siblings) to a potluck dinner at the Chaffin family's house on Friday, May 8, from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m.

The main dish is included. Please bring a side item to share. Along with dinner we will have games, chalk bubbles, and the Epiphany bouncy house!

Youth Car Wash

Join us for our annual Car Wash to support our youth pilgrimage to Camp Mikell! Swing by on Saturday, May 9, from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. to get your car sparkling clean and support a great cause. This also makes for a great Mother's Day gift.

Youth—especially those going to Camp Mikell—are encouraged to come help wash cars. Everyone is invited to come get their car washed and cheer on our hardworking crew!

Field Day

Our Epiphany intergenerational field day will take place in the meadow on May 24 after the parish picnic. Participants of all ages are invited to join!

Questions? Contact Taylor Irwin at tirwin@epiphany.org