Whether we’re riding roller coasters at a theme park, serving our neighbors here in Tallahassee, building relationships on mission trips, or sharing pizza after a retreat, St. John’s Youth is a place where middle and high school students can grow in faith, friendship, and joy.
Our youth gather for Sunday School, Youth Group, and Confirmation classes, with plenty of opportunities throughout the year to worship together, serve our community, travel on retreats and mission trips, and simply enjoy spending time with one another. From delivering meals to those in need and singing Christmas carols with our senior friends to volunteering, laughing, praying, and learning together, there’s always a place to belong.
At St. John’s, we believe every young person is loved by God and has gifts to share. No matter where you are on your faith journey, you’ll find a welcoming community ready to walk alongside you. Keep reading to learn more about Sunday School, Youth Group, Confirmation, mission opportunities, retreats, and all the ways you can get connected.
Acolytes serve at the altar on Sundays and other occasions. All youth in fifth grade or older are eligible to become Acolytes. Training is held periodically. Youth Lectors read the Old Testament and New Testament scriptures during the 9:00 Sunday service. Training is held individually with clergy direction. Youth Choir Members contribute greatly to the worship experience.
Stay tuned for more info on our upcoming Sunday School classes for youth starting on September 13!
Youth in grades 9–12 are invited to participate in our annual Confirmation class, a time of learning, conversation, and spiritual growth as they explore what it means to follow Christ in the Episcopal tradition. Together, participants dive into Scripture, worship, prayer, church history, and the beliefs and practices of our faith while asking honest questions in a welcoming environment.
For many, Confirmation is an opportunity to make a mature, public affirmation of their faith and reaffirm the promises made at their baptism. Whether a student has grown up in the church or is just beginning to explore Christianity, Confirmation is a meaningful next step on their faith journey. Classes begin each January and culminate with the Rite of Confirmation led by the Bishop during a spring visitation.
Stay tuned for more info on our Youth Group activities! We have some incredible events planned for Fall 2026.
If you are a high school senior, join us once a month (DATES TBD) to talk about the different events you are facing, the choices you are making and how God and community can see you through it. This is a laid back get gathering with snacks, coffee, and community of people going through the same thing you are.
Civil Rights Pilgrimage (bi-annually) - mature middle schoolers and high schoolers travel as pilgrims to significant civil rights sites in the south on a three-year rotating basis. Pilgrimages feature museums and culturally important sites in Montgomery, Atlanta, and Birmingham, respectively.
Universal Studios Trip (January) - pure fun in the parks of Universal is a great way to build and strengthen friendships. All 6-12 grade youth are welcome.
Mission Team (Summer) - youth entering grades 9-12 are invited to serve and learn in Cuba, Ecuador, or a domestic location for a week in June or July. This is a significant time commitment to fundraising and team meetings before and after the actual mission trip. Confidential scholarships are available.
Camp Weed is our diocesan camp and conference center, located in Live Oak, Florida. Among many other programs, they host a youth summer camp. Campers of all faith backgrounds are welcome to attend. More information is available on the Camp Weed website.
New Beginnings is an annual fall retreat designed for youth in grades 6-8. During the weekend, participants meet peers from across the diocese, enjoy skits, listen to talks, and participate in small group activities and discussions. Click here for more info.
“Happening” is a renewal weekend for youth in grades 10-12 from across the Diocese of Florida. The retreat occurs three times per year, in September, January, and April. It is a weekend planned entirely by a team of high school youth, and involves fun, games, sharing, surprises, and spiritual renewal. Click here for more info.
Youth B.E.A.T. (Being. Extraordinary. Around. Tallahassee.) is a service-oriented camp, typically offered in the summer, for youth entering grades 6-12. Although this is a faith-based camp, the week is open to all youth in the Tallahassee area. Participants earn service hours and gain a wider perspective of who makes up our community while serving at five different local organizations during the week.
Youth ministry at St. John’s is successful due to a team of dedicated volunteers. Please contact us if you are interested in serving as a youth advisor, or as a member of our Youth Commission.
To learn more about upcoming gatherings, see our
EVENT CALENDAR.
