Youth Ministry

The Youth Group at Good Shepherd is open to students in 6th through 12th grades, meeting once a month for fellowship and spiritual growth. Beyond these gatherings, the youth have many opportunities to engage in service projects and community activities, fostering a deeper connection with their faith and each other.

Third Sundays

We gather on Third Sundays each month for a time of faith, friendship, and fun — sharing meals, games, and conversations that connect faith to everyday life. Each gathering includes opportunities to serve others, plan youth-led worship, and grow in community with friends who walk together in Christ.

At Church

Young people at Good Shepherd are encouraged to take an active role in worship and service, growing as leaders within the congregation. They may serve as crucifers, communion assistants, audio-visual techs, social media contributors, or any other type of service in worship, using their gifts to support the church’s ministry and share God’s love in meaningful, creative ways.

Fellowship & Fun

Christian fellowship gives young people a place to belong, be heard, and be loved as they are. In community, they discover that faith is not just personal but shared — strengthened through prayer, laughter, and service alongside others. By growing together in Christ, youth build lasting friendships and learn what it means to live out God’s love every day.

ELCA Youth Gathering

Every three years, 30,000 high school youth and their adult leaders from across the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America gather for a week of faith formation known as the ELCA Youth Gathering. Through days spent in interactive learning, worship, Bible study, service and fellowship, young people grow in faith and are challenged and inspired to live their faith in their daily lives.

Mar-Lu-Ridge

Mar Lu Ridge welcomes all people to a mountaintop experience of Christian community that changes lives, makes disciples, builds friendships, and encourages care of God’s creation. Campers of all ages experience and engage in cooperative learning while participating in new activities, all in a safe, non-threatening, non-competitive and hands-on environment that builds campers’ confidence along with an understanding of what it means to live as a community in Christ.

LYO

The Delaware Maryland Synod offers retreats for middle school and high school students. Through programs like the LYO Middle & High School Retreat, Seekers Retreat, and Unlikely Leaders, young people grow in discipleship, explore leadership, and experience God’s love in community at places like Mar-Lu-Ridge and Skycroft Retreat Center.

How to Get Involved!

Short-Term Opportunities: Help to plan an activity, chaperone a trip, coordinate a fundraiser
Long-Term Roles: Serve on the team, help us prepare for the next ELCA Youth Gathering
Skills Needed: Likes working with young people, sense of humor, and/or organization
Meeting Schedule: As needed, often seasonally and between the services
Contact Info: youthministry@goodshepherdmd.org