Smithfield UCC Youth Group 2009

It's for you--th grades 7-12.

Smithfield United Church of Christ has a very active youth group. The young people meet every Sunday morning at 9:45 for discussion, debate, and lots of laughs. They also join in a number of outings throughout the year and various projects in support of their activities, including the Light-up Night sale of hot cider and cocoa, warm brownies and cookies as they begin to raise funds toward their summer 2010 trip to UCC headquarters in Ohio.

The lights are on. The sign board is displayed on the sidewalk.

 

A last minute check ensures that all is in readiness and the doors are opened.
Early drop-ins are deciding whether they want the hot chocolate or spiced cider.
A cookie? A brownie? What about one of each!

 

The open door is inviting, and soon friends and strangers are entering. All are invited to see the sanctuary, and many take the opportunity to do so. New brochures prepared by the church archivist (and available at the Welcome Kiosk) serve as their guide.

 

During a slow period two of the teens take it upon themselves to make a personal appeal to passers-by.

 

As the evening progresses, more and more folks stop by for refreshment and, for those with little ones, a place to warm up, take a bathroom break, and visit with friends.

 

Youth Group leader Rebecca finds herself frequently replenishing carafes with hot cocoa and cider as the call goes out: "We need more cider!" "Almost out of hot chocolate here!"

 

And when the cookie supply threatens to run low, count on our multi-talented young cook in the pink hoodie being already in the kitchen making more! One easily imagines that she dances and sings as she works.

The teens are most grateful for the many folks who recognized the fund raising effort for what it was and said "keep the change."

Anyone up for a repeat on "First night"?

Link to Home page and to the young people's Washington, D.C. Mission experiences

  – through you and me!