Parents

WHO WE ARE

Exit31 is a ministry designed to strategically reach the students in our community by providing a safe environment, relevant teaching and worship, small groups with strong adults mentors, and permission for students to be authentic in their search for the truth of Jesus Christ. At Exit31 we provide a variety of connection points that meet students in their areas of interests whether they be extreme sports, video games, or music. We strive to break down barriers that keep our students from experiencing the love of Jesus Christ.

OUR MISSION

To provide a safe place for youth to CONNECT to Jesus as their Savior.

To help youth GROW in their relationship with Jesus Christ.

To foster a culture where youth can SERVE Jesus in the church.

To help youth SHARE Jesus with the world.

OUR VISION

We believe that God wants to do immeasurably more than we could ever ask of him or dream of in the youth ministry of Exit31. Our staff strives to partner with the parents of our students to equip them with practical skills that will help them follow Jesus for a lifetime.  And as a staff we are intentionally creating an environment for our students to connect relationally with their peers in order to help each other in the journey of growing in their walks with Jesus.

YOUTH FAQ

-What do you offer for teens on Sundays?

During the 10:30am service on Sunday mornings we offer various electives for the HS to choose from in Rooms 111 and 113 and the MS meets in the Exit 31 Community Center.

-Do you have any evening events for teens?

During the school year the Middle School meets on Tuesday evenings, and on Wednesday evenings is the High School midweek program.  Both evenings begin at 6pm, with snacks and a social time in the café area.  Then we go into worship, teaching, and small group interaction.  This is a great night for teens to bring their friends to hear what it means to have a relationship with Jesus.  It’s also a time to strengthen friendships, build trust with their small group leader and have a safe place to talk about life challenges they may be facing.

-Is it okay if we visit your youth events as parents?

We would encourage you to not only visit but become involved with your teens in the Youth Ministry.  We have many opportunities for parental involvement.  What better way to know what your teens are learning and doing then to be a part of their church lives.  This will enable more intelligent conversations and follow-up at home.

-What specials events do you offer such as retreats, camps…?

We have a Winter Retreat in January, with Middle and High School combined.  And we have a Paintball Trip in April.  Additionally in the summer we offer camps for each ministry.  Our summer camps include: HS OBX Camp/Hi-Jacked, MS Soul Patrol, HS Go Global (Romania mission trip), Pre-Teen Week of Hope Camp/Thirsty-Work Week for our Middle School teens.  You can stay updated on any other activities we have going on by frequently checking the website.

-Is there a cost for your youth activities?

Most of our trips and retreats do cost money.  But we try to keep it as affordable as possible. We offer scholarships for those who need the financial help by application. Just ask someone on staff and we will assist you.

-Do you ever have parents help out?  How would I get involved?

You can email one of our staff to discuss ways to can get involved.  We encourage parental involvement where they and their teens feel it is appropriate.

-Where can I get more info on the youth ministry?

You will always be able to find printed material in the kiosk in the main church lobby, on the info racks in the Exit31 lobby, and on the Youth table in the church lobby.  Also, you can contact any of the staff listed below.

-Who is your staff and what kind of experience do they have?

Andy Yoder

Andy is our Interim Pastor of Youth.  He graduated from Liberty University with a degree in Religion.  Prior to getting hired at BranchCreek he has worked in the automotive field for 9 years.  He loves to spend quality time with his wife Annette.  In his free time he loves to snowboard and mountain bike.

JULIE ZBYSZINSKI

Julie is the Youth Administrator.  She has been involved with the youth ministry at BranchCreek since she was a teenager.  She is married to Jason and enjoys just about any outdoor activity.  She loves to sing and help lead worship for the youth on Wednesday nights when needed.  She volunteers at the Care n Share Thrift Stores and takes care of her niece after school.

-How can I get in contact with the youth pastor or other paid staff?

Andy Yoder 215-256-0100 ext. 7828

Julie Zbyszinski 215-256-0100 ext. 7832

Or you can email them at the following addresses:

Andy.Yoder@branchcreek.org

Juliez@branchcreek.org