7th – 9th Grade
The journey of faith is only beginning for middle school and high school students. In a supportive mentoring relationship with adults in the congregation, youth explore and discover what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. Their learning, serving and growing goes beyond the Stratford area as they are sent out into this world.
Confirmation
Confirmation begins Wednesday, September 11,2024 from 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Throughout the school year (September – April), 7th-9th graders meet with the pastor and adult leaders on Wednesday evenings for times of learning, service, relationship-building, and fun. In addition, there are opportunities for retreats and other activities with parents or other adult mentors. The focus is on Biblical studies, Lutheran faith, and how to be a follower of Jesus in today’s world. You do not need to be a member of Zion to participate. All youth are welcome.
Service and Activity Opportunities
This year students will need to actively participate in the life of the Church. There are a variety of service and activity opportunities for students to participate in.
Below is a suggested list of service opportunities and activities. It is not an exhaustive list. Upon completion of the activity, a Service and Activity Verification form must be turned into the church office or in the basket in the Narthex. You are welcome to email the completed form to the church office at [email protected]. Forms must be signed by a non-family member.
Parents will be notified by email periodically throughout the year as to the number of points earned for service and activity opportunities.
Advent Meal
Serving and cleaning-up Advent meals is required for Confirmation students and families. Students will earn 2 points for helping with an Advent Meal. Students are required to only help with one of the three meals. Parents are required to help serve and clean-up with their students. Families will be contacted with date and time by the lead person. Families may choose to be reimbursed by the church for any food purchased. You will need to turn in your receipt(s) and complete a form in the church office.
Summer Opportunities
There are a variety of summer opportunities for high school students from mission trips, Bible camp experiences and high adventure trips in order for them to explore their faith, build relationships, discover the world, and learn who God created them to be.
ELCA Youth Gathering
High School students will head to New Orleans, July 16-20, 2024 for a once-in-a-lifetime experience of worship, concerts, activities and service projects with over 30,000 youth from across the country. College students may contact the ELCA Youth Gathering Team to sign up for volunteer opportunities.