If you are a student or young adult between 18-30 years old, this is your ministry! YAMS seeks to provide a safe and inclusive community where young adults from different backgrounds can learn more about the Episcopal Church, build meaningful relationships, and grow in their faith in a supportive community.
If you are new and would like to learn more about YAMS and how to get involved, contact The Rev. Brice Patterson, Deacon and Campus Minister, at deacon@ststephens-columbus.org.
Here is the general event schedule for YAMS through the end of September:
August
Mon, 8/21: Welcome Back Event 6-9pm
Sat, 8/26: Columbus Crew soccer match 6pm
Wed, 8/30: YAMS Planning Session 5:30pm
Thu, 8/31: Bible Study with Compline 7pm
September
Sun, 9/3: Beginning of Term Lunch 12pm
Thu, 9/7: Bible Study with Compline 7pm
Thu, 9/14: YAMS Volunteering 7pm
Sun, 9/17: 3rd Sunday Group Hike 12-3pm
Thu, 9/21: Theology of Inclusion Bible Study 7pm
Thu, 9/28: Game Night at Tabletop Game Cafe 7pm
And here are several write-ups of events that warrant more attention:
OSU Welcome Back Event – Monday, August 21st, 6-9pm
YAMS needs your help! We will be hosting a welcome back event for OSU students in the church parking lot with free food, lawn games, music, and more. We are looking for volunteers willing to help with set-up/tear-down, food prep, general logistics, and those who simply want to talk with students and share information about St. Stephen’s and our campus/young adult ministry. If you are interested in helping, please talk to Brice or Tim Betz and they will add your name to the list.
Annual Welcome Lunch – Sunday, September 3rd, 12-2pm
Invite your friends and roommates to join us for our annual Welcome Lunch! This is an opportunity for new and returning young adults to meet one another, learn more about our young adult and campus ministry, and provide feedback about events and activities for the autumn term. The meal will be catered by Lavash and can accommodate vegetarian/vegan and gluten-free diets. No need to register, just show up!
Save the Date! Day Trip to Cuyahoga Valley National Park – Friday, October 13th
Join us for a day trip to Ohio’s national park! We will be heading to Cuyahoga Valley National Park in northeast Ohio for a full day of hiking and outdoor adventures during peak autumn foliage season. Rides will be arranged for everyone, so no need to worry about driving. We will also provide food for breakfast and a group lunch at the park. All hiking abilities welcome (different options for those looking to go further/shorter distances). Look for registration information in early September.
Theology of Inclusion Bible Study Coming This Autumn
YAMS is excited to welcome Dr. Ben Huelskamp, executive director of local LGBTQIA+ advocacy group LoveBoldly, for a two-part bible study (Thu, Sep. 21st and Thu, Oct. 5th). We will explore the role of scripture and theology in shaping our understanding of Christianity as a faith of acceptance and full inclusion for people of all gender identities and sexual orientations. Come learn more about affirming theology and take part in the discussion.
Lastly, a general announcement for the parish:
Weekly On-Campus Morning Prayer Begins Tuesday, Aug. 29th
Bring your prayer book and join Deacon Brice every Tuesday at 8:30am for outdoor morning prayer in the Browning Amphitheatre next to Mirror Lake. We will use Rite Two from the Book of Common Prayer with minimal adjustments. The service should last no more than 20-25 minutes and is open to everyone (students, faculty/staff, and the public). Prayer books will be provided for those who do not have one. Contact Brice with any questions.
