Who We Are & What We Do
Youth Ministry (Grades 9-12)
Our purpose is to give direction and shape to youth ministry at East Zorra.
Our understanding of youth ministry is to invite youth into the unconditional love of Jesus by:
- NURTURING relationships,
- CULTIVATING faith conversations and
- ENCOURAGING youth to discover their gifts and live out their purpose!
Our Ultimate Goal
To be a faith community where every youth feels seen, valued, loved and inspired to live out the love of Jesus in their lives, in the church and in the world!
Our Core Values
- Loving Jesus
- Meaningful relationships
- Faith that forms
- Developing gifts
- Listening to God’s Call
- Belonging
- Accepted for who you are
- Making disciples
Retreat 2026
Theme: The Kingdom Has Come
Dates: June 5–6, 2026
Location: Redeemer University
Attendance: 23 youth members
Our Youth group had the opportunity to attend an inspiring overnight retreat at Redeemer University, joining together for a weekend centered on the theme “The Kingdom Has Come.” Throughout the retreat, participants experienced meaningful worship, biblical teaching, engaging breakout sessions, recreational activities, and opportunities to build lasting friendships.
The weekend included worship sessions, crafts, sports, vendor booths, games, great food, and plenty of time to connect with one another. Together, the group lifted their voices in worship through songs such as “Battle Belongs,” “Yet Not I But Through Christ in Me,” and “Christ Be Magnified,” creating an atmosphere of encouragement and praise.
Retreat Highlights
- Overnight stay in the Redeemer University residence halls
- Worship services and biblical teaching
- Breakout discussion sessions
- Pickleball, 9-square volleyball, and other recreational activities
- Creative crafts and vendor booths
- Shared meals and fellowship
- Opportunities to reconnect with old friends and build new relationships
- Late-night conversations that strengthened friendships and faith
What Some Participants Shared,
Alexis Leis
“One message that really stood out to me was from Matthew 28:19. It reminded me that when Jesus tells us to ‘Go,’ it doesn’t always mean traveling across the world. God also calls us to make disciples right where He has placed us—in our workplaces, schools, sports teams, and everyday lives.”
Alexis also shared that some of her favourite memories included playing pickleball and 9-square volleyball, creating a giant candy salad with friends, reconnecting with familiar faces, meeting new people, and enjoying meaningful late-night conversations with the youth group.
Bella Matthews
“The conference really brought us together as a youth group.”
Bella reflected on how the retreat strengthened friendships and helped create a greater sense of unity within the group.
Leah Ruby
“Worry is the opposite of faith. It steals the joy that comes from trusting God.”
This message deeply resonated with Leah as she reflected on God’s invitation to surrender anxiety, trust Him more fully, and find her identity in Christ rather than in life’s uncertainties.
Looking Ahead
Retreats like these provide more than just a fun weekend away—they create opportunities for youth to grow in their relationship with Christ, build authentic community, and return home encouraged to live out their faith in everyday life. We are thankful for everyone who attended and look forward to seeing how God continues to work through our Youth ministry.