Youth Ministry

Youth Ministry in the Horizon Texas Conference is all about connection, leadership and transformation. We believe young people are not just the future of the church—they are the church right now. Through dynamic events and opportunities for spiritual growth, we create spaces where youth can explore their faith, build lasting relationships and discover their unique callings. From Bishop’s Rally and multi-church gatherings to lock-ins and paintball games, our Area Coordinators work closely with local churches to offer meaningful experiences that meet youth where they are. Youth also have access to Youth Fusion Grants, which empower them to bring churches together for collaborative ministry.

Conference Youth Leadership

Conference Youth Leadership equips students to lead through events like ONE DAY Leadership Camps, MidWinter planning and retreats, Christmas Disruption between the Christmas and New Years holidays, and the Lead Retreat before Annual Conference.

Christine Peirce

Director of Child and Youth Empowerment

Tessa Armes

Area Coordinator, Lubbock

Rev. Jen Chickering

Area Coordinator, Belton

Abigail Harrison

Area Coordinator, Abilene

Rev. Bill Mauldin

Area Coordinator, Cleburne

Rev. Kat Smith

Area Coordinator, Paris

These experiences help youth discern their gifts, engage in the life of the church, and shape its future through service, worship and legislation.

Opportunities like Youth Annual Conference, Jurisdictional Youth Gatherings, and the Global Young People’s Convocation connect our youth to the wider United Methodist Church and amplify their voices on a global scale. Register here.

For Youth Directors

The Horizon Texas Conference offers growth opportunities through partnerships with Perkins School of Children and Youth Ministry, Rio Texas Faith Formation and Leadership Academy, and conference-hosted retreats like Embodied Exploration and A Time for Children and Youth. Whether you’re a student ready to lead or a director seeking support, Horizon Texas Conference is committed to walking alongside you in building vibrant, Christ-centered youth ministry.

Area coordinators also work to connect youth workers together at various times of the year. Please contact Christine Peirce or a coordinator to find when and how they gather.

New to leading youth ministry?

We’d love to connect! Email us your name and church to get started.

Resources

Youth FUSION Grants
Local Church Children, Youth and Vulnerable Persons Abuse Prevention and Protection Policy
Resource Library for Youth and Children Workers
QPR Training – Please email Christine to connect with our trainer
Dandelion Marketplace
Schedule Training or Access Background Check Tools

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