The philosophy of Youth Ministry at Asbury UMC grows from our understanding of God's relationship with human beings. All people have been created by God in God's image and are loved by God. Though we have turned away from God, all of us sinners, God's love remains steadfast. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believe in him should not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16)

By God's grace we are given new life in Christ. Youth today, like all people, have the option to serve many masters. Through our ministry and example, we strive to encourage youth to follow Christ and to be an active part of Christ's body the church. As followers of Christ, we seek to grow more Christlike in our daily lives. God desires wholeness for us in body, mind and spirit. Therefore our ministry with youth will include study, physical activity, spiritual growth and service to others.

The purpose of Youth Ministry at Asbury UMC is to minister to and with young people, from grade 6 through 12, so that:

• Youth may experience the love and grace of God through Jesus Christ in their lives.
• Positive relationships are developed between youth and adult leaders, and among each other.
• Both youth and adult leaders may grow in Christian faith and understanding and in their discipleship to Christ.
• A safe and welcoming environment will be provided for fellowship and fun in a Christian context.
• Youth may be given an opportunity to develop and use their spiritual gifts for ministry with the whole church.
• All youth will be valued for their uniqueness as children of God.

The Youth Ministry of Asbury Church is open to all youth, regardless of race, national origin, or church or faith affiliation. We as United Methodists welcome all people, never being coercive or condemning. We witness to our Christian faith through our hospitality and our love for others.

The Congregation of Asbury Church is made up of people with a variety of theological perspectives. Not all people experience the faith or express their faith in the same ways, nor are we all at the same place on our spiritual journeys. Our ministry with youth recognizes the differences that the youth bring and creates an open and safe environment for the sharing of beliefs and doubts, experiences and questions. We trust the Holy Spirit to work in all of our lives in such an environment.

The philosophy of Youth Ministry at Asbury UMC grows from our understanding of God's relationship with human beings. All people have been created by God in God's image and are loved by God. Though we have turned away from God, all of us sinners, God's love remains steadfast. "For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believe in him should not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16)

By God's grace we are given new life in Christ. Youth today, like all people, have the option to serve many masters. Through our ministry and example, we strive to encourage youth to follow Christ and to be an active part of Christ's body the church. As followers of Christ, we seek to grow more Christlike in our daily lives. God desires wholeness for us in body, mind and spirit. Therefore our ministry with youth will include study, physical activity, spiritual growth and service to others.

The purpose of Youth Ministry at Asbury UMC is to minister to and with young people, from grade 6 through 12, so that:

• Youth may experience the love and grace of God through Jesus Christ in their lives.
• Positive relationships are developed between youth and adult leaders, and among each other.
• Both youth and adult leaders may grow in Christian faith and understanding and in their discipleship to Christ.
• A safe and welcoming environment will be provided for fellowship and fun in a Christian context.
• Youth may be given an opportunity to develop and use their spiritual gifts for ministry with the whole church.
• All youth will be valued for their uniqueness as children of God.

The Youth Ministry of Asbury Church is open to all youth, regardless of race, national origin, or church or faith affiliation. We as United Methodists welcome all people, never being coercive or condemning. We witness to our Christian faith through our hospitality and our love for others.

The Congregation of Asbury Church is made up of people with a variety of theological perspectives. Not all people experience the faith or express their faith in the same ways, nor are we all at the same place on our spiritual journeys. Our ministry with youth recognizes the differences that the youth bring and creates an open and safe environment for the sharing of beliefs and doubts, experiences and questions. We trust the Holy Spirit to work in all of our lives in such an environment.