Service, Worship, Friendship and Fun

6th through 12th Grade

As our young people grow into who God has created them to be, Holy Cross seeks to walk alongside and support them as they discover their gifts and joys. Our Youth Group meets once a month for fellowship and service activities. Our meeting time each month is not regularly set, as we often take advantage of teacher work days for Fairfax County Public Schools to create weekday activities for our youth. Confirmation classes for those who are interested begin in the fall of odd-numbered years and culminate with the bishop’s visitation that occurs every two years. We invite our young people who are Confirmed to commit to another ministry opportunity at the church, such as helping with Children’s Chapel, Acolyting, serving on the Outreach Committee, or something else that matches their unique interests and gifts.

Acolyting

Young people in 3rd grade and up can participate in leading our worship each Sunday by serving as an acolyte. Acolytes assist the clergy in a host of ways during the liturgy, and training is offered for any young person who wants to join.

Service

The youth shop together for toys to stock a Christmas toy store for those in need, collect e-waste to protect the environment, and participate in other community projects. We hold the annual Holy Cross pancake supper on Shrove Tuesday. At the end of the program year, we lead the morning service on Youth Sunday. The prayers are written, the lessons are read, and the sermon is preached by Holy Cross children and youth. Then, those interested head out on mission trips over the summer.

Safeguarding God’s Children at Holy Cross

At Holy Cross, we are committed to ensuring the church is a place where all God’s children can grow up feeling safe and comfortable. Any adult working with minors must be known to the clergy of Holy Cross for at least six months prior to beginning that ministry and is required to participate in training to prevent misconduct. Parish leadership also takes the Safeguarding God’s Children training to ensure that we maintain a culture that is committed to the safety and protection of God’s children.