Young Adult Resource Persons

WHAT IS A YARP ???

Y A R P stands for Young Adult Resource Person. A YARP is a committed member of the ELCA between the ages of 18 and 25 who has extensive experience in congregational life and youth ministry and who wishes to serve the Lord by volunteering as a resource in youth ministry to congregations, conferences and synods.

WHAT DOES A YARP DO ???

A YARP provides a powerful witness to children and junior and senior high youth by sharing his or her faith through the YARP ministry. A YARP may be asked to:

• serve on a planning committee for a large youth or family event,
• serve as staff at a large youth or family event,
• plan and lead a retreat or lock-in,
• plan and lead Bible studies or worship experiences at a youth event,
• present a workshop,
• lead youth and adults in evaluating an existing youth program and in planning for a new, revitalized program,
• lead songs, games, and mixers for all sorts of events.

A YARP makes a commitment to the synod to attend a week of training each year and to volunteer about two days per month for at least two years.

WHAT DOES THE SYNOD DO FOR A YARP ???

The synod will provide training and ongoing opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. It will provide a coordinator to administer the program and to offer support and guidance to the YARP as needed. The synod will provide reimbursement for any expenses incurred during YARP service.

WHY BE A YARP ???

Although being a YARP is hard work and requires a lot of commitment, there are a number of benefits. At a time when many changes may be taking place in a young adult's life, this program will offer a supportive and empowering community of peers and adults. A YARP will have the opportunity to continue his or her role as a leader in youth ministry, to share and grow in his or her God-given gifts and in the expertise gained during years as an active youth. A YARP will have the opportunity to network with other committed servants of God and to gain a broader experience in the mission and workings of the church-at-large. And most important, a YARP will grow and become more secure in his or her own relationship with God.

If you are interested in learning more about the YARP ministry, please contact the program coordinator:

Heather Hansen
19501 Encino Knoll
San Antonio, TX 78259
210-824-7135

Please note that the deadline for new YARP application materials for the coming YARP year (August to May) is July 1st. We do hope you will consider applying. YARPs is a wonderful ministry that needs your God given gifts and love for children to be a succesful ministry!