Youth at St. James are an important part of our parish life. They serve in many roles within the parish. Our youth programs encourage them to explore, question, and develop their faith. Our primary gathering, EYC, meets most Sunday evenings from 5:00 to 6:30, with friends and guests welcomed. For more information about youth programs and activities, please contact The Rev. Laurie M. Brock at 387-5141 or email at lbrock@stjamesbr.org

(Episcopal Youth Community)
Youth from 6th through 12th grade are encouraged to be part of this program. We have fun, explore Christian faith, ask questions, and just be ourselves. On the last Sunday of each month we participate in celebration the Eucharist at the 5:00 PM service in the Chapel, followed by dinner together.

This year the EYC is focusing on the eight Millennium Development Goals that strive to eradicate extreme poverty in the world. Christ tells us that what we do to the least of these, we do to him. The EYC strives to learn about the realities of poverty and works to help those in need through fund raising, service, and prayer. This year we've donated insect netting to help eradicate malaria in sub-Saharan Africa and also supported Heifer International.

We served our homeless and poorest neighbors at the December Feast of St. James and will for future Sunday meals. We've made public service announcements about the great needs of so many of our brothers and sisters. We're living out our Christian responsibility. Not bad for a group of teenagers!

Confirm, not Conform
Ever wondered what it really means to be confirmed? What's the big deal about church and faith anyway? And what if you're not sure you always believe in God? Bring all your questions, doubts, answers, and thoughts to Confirm not Conform... a new and innovative confirmation or post-confirmation program for 8th to 12th graders. Our gathering begins in late February.

Mission and Ministry Trips
Each summer our youth have opportunities to participate in mission and ministry trips to serve others, and learn more about our own faith. This year's trips include a week long pilgrimage to Heifer Ranch in Perryville, Arkansas for all EYCers. A mission trip to East Tennessee is for older youth (including college age) to make much needed home repairs in a mountain community... and for white water rafting.

EYC Out and About
Join St. James' EYC as we explore Baton Rouge through some great local adventures. Past Out and About adventures have included a Haunted Cornfield and the historic LSU Rural Life Museum's Christmas Celebration. Who knows where we'll go next?

Sunday Christian Education
Both middle school (6th through 8th graders) and high school (9th through 12th graders) meet regularly for Sunday Christian Education. Each group explores current topics and discusses how they relate to Christian teachings. Come, join us Sunday mornings from 10:00-10:45 in the Ministries Center, across Fourth Street from the church.