Supporting parishes and communities through specialized ministry areas
Events
Diocesan Ministry
Children, Youth, and Family
Nurturing Faith from the Earliest Years
About Children, Youth, and Family Ministry
Diocesan Children, Youth, and Family Ministry (CYFM) is called by the Spirit to create authentic and transformative experiences in faith for youth, young adults, and those who minister to and with them. We equip young people for passionate leadership and advocacy, empower them in their response to God’s call, nurture their spiritual gifts, and provide opportunities for them to explore their relationship with God through intentional safe communities, creative worship, Christ-centred leadership development, and relationship-based programming rooted in the Anglican tradition.
What We Do
We envision an Anglican community that nurtures the spiritual growth of children and fully includes children as partners in the faith community. Every child brings dignity, worth, unique abilities, and gifts to share. As we support parish-based programs, we advocate for a broader vision of the church that is inclusive of all kinds of people.
We honour volunteers and staff in youth ministry at the parish and diocesan level by providing continuing education, recognition, ongoing support, and practical resources. We encourage faithful risk-taking. Participants, volunteers, staff, and parents regularly provide feedback about programs and goals, which is integrated into our continuously developing ministry.
Who We Do it For
CYFM serves children, youth, young adults, families, and those who minister to and with them across the Diocese of Niagara. This includes parish-based volunteers, Sunday school leaders, youth group facilitators, and clergy seeking resources for their family programming.
Programs
CYFM Leaders Network
Networking, training, and resourcing opportunities for children, youth, and family ministry practitioners.
Events
Quarterly virtual meetings held over Zoom.
To join the community of leaders, please contact Kristen Jackson-Dockeray.
Training Opportunities Outside the Diocese
- Certificate in Youth and Theology, Youth Ministry Forum, Princeton Theological Seminary
Youth Leadership Training Program (YLTP)
YLTP gathers youth from across the diocese for a transformative four-day residential experience of leadership development, community building, and faith formation. The program is deeply shaped by our diocesan Mission Action Plan, equipping young people to grow in faith, discover their gifts, and live out God’s mission in their communities.
Learning takes place during three consecutive March Break retreats.
How do I apply for YLTP?
First-year applicants must be between the ages of 12 (Grade 7) and 15 years; applications must include a reference from the rector.
To register, please contact Kristen Jackson-Dockeray.
Date/Location
March 14 -17, 2027, at Camp Canterbury Hills, Ancaster
The Joyce Wilton Youth Ministry Bursary Fund
The Joyce Wilton Youth Ministry Bursary Fund was created by the Diocesan Youth Ministry Committee to enable young people to participate in Niagara Youth Ministry residential events by providing financial assistance to those in need.
Bursary Requests
To request a bursary, please complete the Bursary Request Form. Send your completed form to Kristen Jackson Dockeray by mail, email or fax (905-527-0963).
Bursary Fund Donation
Change a life and donate to the bursary fund by sending your cheque payable to the “Diocese of Niagara” (please note JW Youth Ministry Bursary Fund on the memo line) to
Youth Ministry Bursary
Attention: Kristen Jackson-Dockeray
252 James St N
Hamilton, ON
L8R 2L3
Tax receipts will be provided for all donations over $10.00.
Ms. Kristen Jackson-Dockeray
Children, Youth, & Family Missional Coordinator