explore vocation,

do theological reflection,

engage in hands-on ministry in rural and urban communities,

look at how their faith can make a difference in today's world,

learn the distinctives of the Methodist tradition,

practice spiritual disciplines,

plan and lead worship, and

deepen their faith in God.

To facilitate this, youth study with seminary professors, staff and students, members of the wider community who are in various vocations, people who are engaged in public witness in The Capital and other regions of the country. In addition, these young people have adult mentors with whom they meet frequently. There are also online sessions where youth interact with other participants and program staff to reflect on their experience at the previous weekend session and prepare for the next one.

Over the course of a school year, beginning July youth meet at Saint Paul School of Theology in Kansas City, Missouri or at Lydia Patterson Institute in El Paso, Texas or in Nebraska. They also meet in a rural setting and participate in online discussions for intensive learning, service, and theological reflection.

The yearlong process culminates with a nine-day Pan-Methodist pilgrimage to the East Coast to explore and experience historic locations from the beginnings of Methodism in America.

With guidance from their local mentor, fellow participants, seminary faculty, and program staff, youth do a project to share with their local congregation what they have experienced and learned during the year.

In order to be selected for the youTheology program, youth must commit to attending all sessions (face-to-face and online) and to meeting with a local mentor (who is not their relative) throughout the program.

Program details
For detailed information on what you will be learning, visit the learning section.

For detailed information on being a mentor, visit the mentor section.