The purpose of the youth and family ministries department is to strengthen churches of our Convention by assisting them minister effectively to youth, young adults and families.

We attempt to do this through the following means:

1. Events for youth: To challenge youth (ages 12-18) to commit their lives to Christ, grow in the Christian faith and contribute to the strengthening of their home church, we sponsor events that are oriented around evangelism, discipleship, leadership, worship and mission.
2. Equipping leaders: To help leaders become more effective in youth ministry and contribute to the health of their church, we sponsor training and encouraging events for both volunteer and paid youth leaders.
3. Young adults: To help young adults (ages 18+) grow in their Christian faith and contribute to the strengthening of their home church, we sponsor events and initiatives that encourage a healthy transition from high school to adulthood through a focus on community, worship, mission and the development of a Christian worldview.
4. Family: To help families strengthen their Christian commitment and contribute more fully to the life of their local church, we sponsor educational and missional events that focus on strengthening marriages, encouraging parents, and facilitating hands-on family mission experiences.
5. Research: To help churches and leaders better understand their youth, young adults and families, we conduct original research into the identity, beliefs and practices of those we minister to.
6. Speaking and consulting: To champion effective ministry to youth, young adults and families, our staff are available to speak at events and meet with local church and Association leadership teams.