The Rite 13 is a two-year program and the first of the six-year Journey to Adulthood course. Depending on the year, sixth through eighth graders take their first steps of passage away from their families and into their own lives in this environment. The fall is kicked off with a liturgical celebration of the gifts of womanhood and manhood. The group will begin to acknowledge the gift of gender and celebrate the amazing creative power and potential of youth. An environment is fostered in which they can explore new ideas, new interests, and new abilities.

The J2A program follows Rite 13 and blends action and reflection in teaching faithful living. Participants learn the skills of active listening, negotiation, assertion, research/information management, partnership, and leadership. During this time, they will organize and work their way towards a Holy Pilgrimage. Upon their return, many will be confirmed. They are being recognized as young adults who have achieved new levels of responsibility.

Who is on the Youth Ministry team at St. James? Youth Ministers are supported by all of our clergy. The team itself is made up of Youth Ministers that work together for the good of our youth. They are Amanda and Drew Rucker, Louise Brinegar, Heather Johns, Richard Shield, Joe Collins, and Director of Youth Ministries Teresa Rogers.

Our YAC -- Young Adults in the Church meet on the 1st and 3rd Sundays of the month in the Volunteer Office with Teresa Rogers. These young people are taking on new responsibilities such as being the Youth Vestry Member, serving on the Diocesan Youth Commission, or being a Youth Leader at different youth events.

During the J2A phase of the Journey to Adulthood program, youth begin, collectively, deciding where to go. With the help of their youth ministers they organize fund raisers, team-building projects, and community building to get them financially and mentally ready for the journey they are preparing to take.

Once abroad, the youth and adults spend the majority of each day in reflection, meditation, integration, and interaction. This is a religious journey and discussions of God, faith, and one's personal journey are an integral part of the event. The experience is intended to be a transformational journey in which pilgrims learn about themselves, the group, and their relationship with God.