Tools for Adult and Youth Faith Formation

The Program Summary

The Council at its beginnings was called the New York Sunday School Association. We invite people of all ages to reflect deeply on their faith through study, worship, and action. We strive to help congregations organize themselves to live out their faith in the public square. Towards this end we offer a variety of resources, seminars, opportunities for relationship building and travel, including our annual trip to Washington DC for High School youth.

Annual High School Trip

Description: Every year, the New York State Council of Churches sponsors a trip for high school students to reflect on a social justice topic where we help young people translate faith into action. Typically, the trip occurs during the scheduled February break for New York schools. Examples include study of institutional racism in New York City and Health Care and Anti-Poverty Policies in Washington DC. 


Listing of Faith Formation Opportunities for Youth

Description: The New York State Council of Churches brings to the attention of Youth leaders and high school students, attention faith formation opportunities sponsored by our denominational partners and ecumenical based programs such as the Youth Conference at Princeton University, Summer camps, and the summer Ecumenical faith formation program at Emory University. 

Member Denomination Programs for Youth

Youth Ministry at Princeton

Emory -  Candler Youth Institute. 

Clergy Mental Health and Support

Parish ministry and chaplaincy is stressful! Clergy need community, colleagues, support groups, spiritual guides and therapists to do their work. We urge all clergy to find a support group of colleagues where they are free to confidentially explore the joys and and challenges of ministry. 

Continuing Education Opportunities Worship, Curriculum

Description: There are a plethora or resources available to congregations to aid them in worship development and curriculum for classroom instruction. We also profile anti-racism materials produced by denominational partners and our recommendations on best practices.