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Youth Council

Serving on the Presbytery Youth Council (YoCo) is a unique way for high school youth to grow in their faith in Jesus Christ. Youth who serve on YoCo will also gain valuable leadership skills, learn more about the Presbyterian Church (USA), forge lasting friendships, and serve the church in an important, challenging way.

The Presbytery Youth Council is composed of youth and adults from the Presbytery of the James. Youth serving on the Presbytery Youth Council are nominated by their churches through an application process.

Presbytery Liaison

Barbara Chalfant
Presbyter for Congregational Life

YoCo Responsibilities

The Presbytery Youth Council of the James has primary responsibilities for:

  • Planning and implementing Presbytery-wide youth events and retreats.
  • Providing a balance of quality programming that offers opportunities for fellowship, study, service, worship, and discipleship.
  • Promoting opportunities for youth participation in the Presbytery, Synod, and General Assembly.
  • Serving as liaisons for promotion and communication of events between local churches and the Presbytery Youth Council.

YoCo Expectations

Youth who serve on the Presbytery Youth Council must:

  • Be active participants in their local church and youth group.
  • Be a high school student by the Fall.
  • Be an exemplary role model for other youth and refrain from abuse of any controlled substances (drugs, alcohol, and tobacco).
  • Be willing to learn new skills and take risks in leadership roles.
  • Be willing to commit to making the Presbytery Youth Council a priority in their schedules and be regular in attendance at meetings and events.
  • Be willing to abide by YoCo policies and Covenants. Youth normally serve until their graduation from high school. YoCo members may reapply each year, but will be given the same consideration as all other applicants.

 

Apply to YoCo

High school-age youth may apply to serve on the Youth Council of Presbytery of the James.

Download application (PDF)

Submit your application by August 1. Send it by email to Barbara Chalfant or by mail to Presbytery of the James, 3218 Chamberlayne Ave., Richmond, VA 23227.

Adults: Volunteer with YoCo

Adults are needed to assist youth in planning retreats and conferences. To learn more or offer your assistance, contact Barbara Chalfant.

 

Youth Council materials adopted from Central Florida Presbytery