Our People and History

In late 2004, the Journey Ministry was started with four members, and was known as the YALL (Young Adults Learning & Leading) Sunday School Class. As more young adults became involved, the ministry outgrew the Church School hour on Sunday morning. We now strive to follow Embry Hills mission to Live Our Vision Everyday by being radically hospitable and actively involved in all aspects of our church and community.

The Journey ministry is currently made up of 15-20 active members, and welcomes several others on a regular basis. We range in age from 21 to 35 years old. Some of us are employed full time, others of us are completing school. Most of us are single, but we welcome married couples (with or without children) as well. And we are all united in spreading the love of Jesus that knew no boundaries.

What We Do

Our ministry is based around three central themes: helping others through service, exploring the Christian faith through discussion and meditation, and building relationships through fellowship. We do these things in the following ways:

* Outreach projects: Our goal is to provide an opportunity for service in the local community on a monthly basis. Some of these projects are organized specifically for the Journey ministry; others are coordinated through the churchwide EHugs ministry.

Currently on the schedule for the second half of 2007 are serving Trinity Table in July, walking in the Wesley Walk for Others in October, and participating in the Operation Christmas Child shoebox ministry in December. Other opportunities in August, September, and November are in the planning stages.

* Nothing But Nets: The Journey ministry is spearheading Embry Hills UMC's participation in the Nothing But Nets program. This United Methodist Church-sponsored program buys mosquito nets for families in third world countries and teaches proper use to prevent Malaria. Click here for more information about this ministry.

* Message in a Bottle: The traditional Sunday School hour before church on Sunday is not big enough for the Journey ministry. Embry Hills young adults meet for food, fellowship, and study every Wednesday night at 7:00 p.m. at one of our members houses. We typically meet for 3+ hours. Click here for more information.

* Building relationships: We believe that an effective church is characterized by strong relationships between authentic members. We attempt to build these relationships by regular fellowship outside the church. We come together in all types of social situations--from Christian concerts to baseball games to local bars--so we can get to know the full person. We believe the only way to effectively love and support one another is to embrace the whole person, faults included.

If you want information about the Journey ministry, or if you would like to be on our mailing list, please email Brian Jones (brjones9@gmail.com).