The Youth Committee at Debre Genet Amanuel Ethiopian Orthodox Church is more than a social club—it is a catalyst for personal development, faith formation, and community service among teenagers. In this post, we explain the committee’s mission, core activities, and how families can support their children’s involvement.

Mission Statement

“To cultivate an environment where youth discover their spiritual identity, develop leadership skills, and serve the church and wider community with compassion.”

Key Programs and Activities

• Weekly Fellowship (Fridays, 6:00 pm): Games, discussions, and a short teaching on Orthodox doctrine.
• Service Projects (Quarterly): Food drives, home‑repair assistance for seniors, and volunteering at local shelters.
• Leadership Training (Bi‑monthly): Workshops on public speaking, event planning, and conflict resolution, led by senior church members.
• Liturgical Participation: Youth assist as acolytes, choir members, and readers during major feasts.
• Summer Camp (June–July): A 2‑week immersion at a nearby monastery, focusing on prayer, fasting, and cultural heritage.

How the Committee Supports Spiritual Growth

Each meeting includes a brief study of Bible passages or saints’ lives. Youth are encouraged to ask questions in both English and Amharic, fostering a bilingual understanding of the faith. The committee also sponsors a mentorship program pairing each teen with an experienced parishioner.

Success Stories

Since its inception in 2018, the committee has helped over 150 teens:

• Samuel (16) organized a community clean‑up that attracted 30 volunteers and earned a city commendation.
• Lily (14) presented a research project on the history of the Ethiopian Cross at the church’s annual cultural fair.
• Michael (17) was elected youth representative on the church’s Administrative Board, influencing policy on youth outreach.

How Parents Can Get Involved

Parental support is vital. Here are ways you can help:

1. Attend the quarterly “Parent‑Youth” dinner to stay informed about upcoming events.
2. Volunteer as a chaperone for service projects or the summer camp.
3. Encourage your teen to share their ideas during committee meetings.

Joining the Youth Committee

If your child is between ages 12‑18 and interested in deepening their faith while making a positive impact, they can sign up through the Membership Form. The committee meets in the church’s fellowship hall; no prior experience is required.

Contact Information

To learn more, email youth@debrengenet.org or call the church office at (973) 555‑0123. We welcome new faces and fresh ideas!

Investing in our youth today secures a vibrant, faithful tomorrow for Debre Genet and the broader community.