The youth in the Diocese of Central Florida are not the future of the church; they are the church of today. We hope to provide the diocese with the vision and encouragement that is needed for the task of equipping students to have a long-lasting faith and kingdom focus.
Grounded is a conference-style youth retreat event designed for you and your youth to hear, engage and experience the gospel of Christ.
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Soul in the City is a five-day mission experience that brings students together from across the Diocese of Central Florida to serve, think deeply, and build real friendships that last. Whether you're part of a youth group or an Episcopal school, this week is an invitation to step into the care and purpose of God.
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New Beginnings, a long-standing ministry created in the Diocese of Central Florida, will host a unique retreat for middle and high school students, led by high school and college students with support from adult leaders.
New BeginningsOur Youth Ministry Coordinators Team is comprised of devoted individuals who are not just leaders, but mentors, friends, and guides on this spiritual journey. Each member brings their unique gifts, talents, and experiences to foster a welcoming, inspiring, and supportive environment for our youth. Email them to set up an appointment to discuss how they can support you in your ministry.
The Rev. Garcia Barnswell-Schmidt is the School Chaplain at Holy Trinity Episcopal Academy, in Melbourne FL. She also serves as a mentor to school chaplains in the NAES Chaplain Mentorship Program.
Rev. Garciaâs areas of specialty include:
Rev. Garcia believes that the ministry of youth and families is fundamental. Her love of children and her passion to teach them about God drives her ministry forward. She is happy to serve and support you in your ministry needs, even if itâs just simply to talk or use her as a sounding board for your ideas.
The Rev. Kevin Bartle has served as rector at St. Mary of the Angels, Orlando, since his ordination in 2018. He holds a Master of Divinity from Asbury Theological Seminary, Orlando, and completed Anglican studies at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Jacksonville.
Rev. Kevinâs areas of specialty include:
Throughout his life, Kevin has continually felt a calling to attend to the care and development of youth. He taught elementary students, worked as a psychiatric assistant in a residential facility for adolescents facing mental health challenges and served as youth pastor for a handful of churches within the diocese. Today, Kevin continues his investment in the next generation by serving as the director of New Beginnings and as a chaplain at Camp Wingmannâs winter and summer camps.
The Rev. Jared Jones is rector at Holy Cross Episcopal Church in Sanford. He received his Bachelor of Science in Biblical Studies from Liberty University and his Master of Divinity from Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, where he is currently working on his Doctor of Ministry degree.
Rev. Jaredâs areas of specialty include:
In 2022, while serving as an associate priest at All Saints in Winter Park, Jared helped start âGrounded,â a diocesan-wide youth weekend that had over 75 students and leaders in attendance. With regard to student ministry, Jaredâs focus is making sure that middle and high school students find their way into youth environments with leaders who love them and preach the Gospel.
Check out these stories from Central Florida Episcopalian Online about what’s happening around the diocese with Children and Youth. And explore more articles here.
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