Policy Statement for Youth Ministry

                                        POLICY STATEMENT FOR YOUTH MINISTRY

It is the goal of the Westminster Youth Program to encourage and support the spiritual development of young people.  This growth occurs through involvement in Christian education opportunities, in Christian community as young persons, and as important members of the wider church community both locally and in the world wide church community.

Recognizing the many focuses of our youth ministry and the many developmental tasks of young people, the following policies continue to be in effect to allow the goals of the Youth Program to be achieved.

1.     It is expected that there will be no use of alcohol nor non-prescription drugs
        at any function sponsored by the church.  If use occurs, the Director of Youth
        Ministry with the support of the church will intervene as appropriate.  The
        Youth Director may request that the offender’s parents pick up the student
        at an out-of-town location.

2.     In group settings, an individual’s behavior may at times be detrimental to the
        group.  On such occasions, temporary exclusion from the group may be
        necessary and appropriate.  The responsibility of caring for each individual
        will continue regardless of behavior.

3.     Legally and morally, the Youth Director is required to take the necessary
        steps to report and deal with abuse and neglect that comes to his/her attention.

4.     It is expected that parents will encourage young people in following the
        guidelines set forth for them, and will support the Director of Youth Ministry
        in dealing with inappropriate behavior.  Parental cooperation is a vital element
        in effective youth ministry.

5.     Participants in Westminster’s Youth Program are responsible to their peers and
        advisors for: their behavior, their choice of guests, and informing guests of the
        policies listed here.  Guests are expected to abide by these guidelines.

6.     The Youth Director’s first ministry is to youth.  On occasion, as part of this
        ministry, he/she may need to share concerns for particular young people with
        their parents.

7.     The Youth Director of Westminster carries the authority and support of the
        church in interactions with young people, parents, and the community.

8.     The Youth Program, as a unique ministry of Westminster, operates in
        accordance with the policy and guidelines of the church.


                                                              - - Endorsed by The Session
                                                                   Westminster Presbyterian Church
                                                                    April 21, 1986