VIBE Urban Youth Ministries began in the fall of 2000 when several local youth leaders in St. Paul beleived that urban youth and families could do more together than apart. With the partnership of a few urban ELCA congregations of the Saint Paul Area Synod and their pastors, VIBE launched their first collaborative confirmation program. In the months and years following, other congregations joined the collaborative, activities for all ages, high school youth meetings, families activities, and summer camp were all added and youth ministry in the city of St. Paul was changed for good!
It takes faith to be a part of a collaborative community such as VIBE. Not every Lutheran is the same, even those in the city. Not all of the VIBE congregations are alike, and we wouldn't be who we are if they were. VIBE stretches far beyond race, ethnicity, disability, and sexuality to a place where every person meets Jesus through relationships. All are welcome!
Taking the risk to transform and empower urban youth, working together to unite congregations in the city for good, and working towards strengthening the communities around us, is the exciting joy of being a part of VIBE!
