For too long, Confirmation has been the commencement ceremony that follows our having marched a bunch of youth through a series of boring classes, laid hands on them, and graduated them out of the church. This is why a Mentor Program is needed. We believe that if there is a relationship built with a significant adult, who is a faithful, practicing Christian, we will hold more of our young people. (The mentor may not be a relative)
To that end, we have designed a program whereby youth can look over the mentor’s shoulder and see what it means to be an involved and participating person of faith. Consequently, we will be asking each student and their mentor to meet with each other at mutually agreed upon and convenient times to:
1. Read the gospel of Luke together. As each of you read on your own, note the passages that you find interesting, confusing or inspiring. Every two weeks, discuss what you have read.
2.Attend worship together. After each service, discuss your reflections, questions, impressions – what you got out of the service.
3.Get a copy of the congregation’s budget. Find out where your money goes. Discuss how each of you decides, or will decide, how to make your financial commitment to your church.
4.Attend together any one of QUMC’s Administrative Board, Trustee, COM, or Financial Board meetings. You can ask Pastor Nancy for the schedule.
5.In your own words, explain to each other “Why I like Being a United Methodist Christian.” Discuss two aspects of your church about which you would like to know more. If necessary, ask Pastor Nancy to help you find this information.
6.Attend a funeral and a wedding (If one is scheduled). After each service, discuss where, how, and why God was present/involved in each service.
7.Go through the book Claim the Name, Talk Points for Mentors & Youth
Mentors will be selected by the student himself/herself before the first session. IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE A MENTOR, PLEASE LET PASTOR NANCY KNOW SO THAT A LIST MAY BE GIVEN TO THE STUDENTS TO HELP MAKE HIS/HER CHOICE .
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITY:
Sometime in April, the Bishop usually has a Confirmation Day at Old St. George’s United Methodist Church in Philadelphia. I would like for the students to attend if this day is held this year. (parents are also welcome). More information will follow as it is received.
Trip to homeless shelter or soup kitchen. Date to be announced.
Participation in the 30-Hour Famine with youth group.
