Journey to Adulthood
History
The
Journey to Adulthood program was developed over a ten year period
by parishioners of St. Philip's Episcopal Church in Durham, NC.
The curriculum was written by Amanda Hughes and David E. Crean.
Holy Trinity has offered the program, since 1998 and receives modifications
and additions yearly. Bishop Henderson strongly supports Journey
to Adulthood and encourages participation by all parishes in our
diocese.
Overview
The
Journey to Adulthood includes Rite 13, J2A, and YAC. The program
balances Scripture, prayer, study, and both serious and playful
activities to nurture the youth of Holy Trinity during their passage
from chidhood to adulthood. Adulthood must be earned. the four
components of the curriculum are: spirituality, self, society,
and sexuality. The leaders provide a safe place for the discussion
of important issues. the Baptismal Covenant is a main focus of
the program. The curriculum is steeped in Scripture and young people
are reminded of the ever-present love and mercy of God. Having
four leaders, two males and two females, is ideal for each group.
The curriculum is flexible and leaders tailor classes to meet the
needs of the youth of Holy Trinity. The gourps meet sunday morning
from 9:15 - 10:15 and twice a month Sunday afternoon. Psalm 139
is Journey to Adulthood's Psalm. For more information email Carolyn
Wheeler or call 864/654-5071.
The Three Parts
of Journey to Adulthood
Rite
13 (usually ages 12-13)
The Rite 13 class begins at age 12 and parallels Jesus' journey to Jerusalem
at age 12. Community building is an important part of Rite 13. The youth are
taught that womanhood and manhood are gifts from God. The Rite 13 Liturgy,
which is held during a Sunday service, is the youth's acknowledgement of these
gifts and of their stewardship of God's creation.
J2A
- Journey to Adulthood (usually ages 14-16)
J2A is the core of the program and blends action and contemplation in teaching
young people to understand and affirm faithful Christian living. Confirmation
is offered to youth who are 16 years of age and above. At the end of J2A the
youth make a holy pilgrimage.
YAC
- Young Adults in the church (usually ages 16-18)
YAC encourages older youth to take on adult responsibilites in all aspects
of parish life and in the community. They are challenged to become good stewards
of their time, talent and treasure.
Responsibility
of Holy Trinity Parishioners
During
the service of Holy Baptism the priest asks the congregation, "Will
you who witness these vows do all in your power to support these
persons in their life in Christ?" And we, as a congregation,
respond, "We will!"
