The FUMC Youth Ministry is for middle school and high school students. These years can be some of the hardest to get through and, yet, some of the most vital years for building a faith that lasts and friendships that matter. Our ministry exists to EXPOSE students to God’s love and truth, to CONNECT them with fellow Christians, to help them GROW in their faith, to challenge them to DISCOVER their ministry, and to HONOR God with their lives.
Sunday School
Meeting Time: 9:30am every Sunday
Location: Family Life Center (FLC), Room 104 | 1101 Fifth Ave. Conway, SC 29526
Sunday School is offered each week for students in grades 6–12 and meets at 9:30 a.m. in the Family Life Center (FLC). Led by a rotating team of dedicated adult volunteers, this class creates a welcoming space where students can explore their faith, ask honest questions, and connect Scripture with their everyday lives. Through conversation, learning, and community, youth are encouraged to grow in their understanding of God’s love and what it means to follow Jesus today.
UMYF (United Methodist Youth Fellowship)
Meeting Time: 5:30pm every Sunday September – May
Location: Family Life Center (FLC) | 1101 Fifth Ave. Conway, SC 29526
On Sunday evenings, students in grades 6–12 gather for United Methodist Youth Fellowship (UMYF) from 5:30–7:30 p.m. Rooted in the United Methodist tradition, UMYF brings youth together for faith, fellowship, and fun. We begin around the table with a shared meal, then dive into games, meaningful devotions, and small-group conversations. Through worship, service, and community, youth grow as disciples of Jesus—learning to live out God’s love in their everyday lives and in service to the world.
Confirmation
Meeting Time: 4:30pm every Sunday September – May
Location: Family Life Center (FLC) Room 104 | 1101 Fifth Ave. Conway, SC 29526
Confirmation is a chance for students in 6th grade and older to explore their faith and decide what it means for them. Meeting weekly from September through May and led by the clergy of First UMC, Confirmation builds on the promises made at baptism and invites youth to take the next step in their journey of faith. This is a space to ask real questions, grow closer to God, and begin to claim your own identity as a disciple of Jesus.
What Happens at Confirmation?
During Confirmation, students dig into Scripture, talk honestly about faith and life, pray together, and serve others. You’ll learn what the United Methodist Church believes, why it matters, and how faith connects to everyday life. Students will also participate in a spring Confirmation Retreat at Epworth-by-the-Sea, offering time away for worship, reflection, and building deeper connections with one another and with God. The journey ends with a Confirmation service, where students choose to affirm their faith and commit to being part of the Church’s life and mission.
What If I Haven’t Been Baptized?
Baptism is God’s gift of grace and our entrance into the life of the Church. You do not need to be baptized before beginning Confirmation. Confirmation is a time of learning, reflection, and growth for all students. If a student has not yet been baptized, baptism may be celebrated during the Confirmation season or in connection with the Confirmation service. The clergy will walk alongside each student and family, helping them prepare and respond to God’s gracious invitation in the way that is right for them.
Senior High Devotion & Breakfast
Meeting Time: 7am Tuesdays September – May
Location: Starbucks, 1615 Church St., Conway, SC 29526
High school students are invited to hang out on Tuesday mornings from September through May for breakfast and devotions with Rev. Emily at Starbucks. Come grab a bite, sip some coffee (or a refresher), and start your day with good conversation, a short devotion, and a moment to breathe before school. No pressure—just a welcoming space to connect, ask questions, and grow in faith together.
Thursday Prayer Breakfast
Meeting Time: 7am Thursdays September – May
Location: Family Life Center, 1101 Fifth Ave., Conway, SC 29526
Students in grades 6–12 are invited to join us for Chick-fil-A Prayer Breakfast in the Family Life Center starting at 7:00 a.m. Come grab some breakfast, hang out around the table, share prayer requests, and start your day with encouragement and fun. Transportation is provided to Conway Middle, Whittemore Park Middle, and Conway High School. Bring $5 for chicken minis, hash browns, and tea—no pressure, just a great way to begin the day together before school.
Wonderful Wednesdays
Meeting Time: 3:30pm Wednesdays | September – May
Location: Family Life Center | 1101 Fifth Ave., Conway, SC 29526
All youth are invited to come hang out after school on Wednesdays in the Family Life Center. This laid-back time includes snacks, good conversation, and a short weekly devotion—an easy way to relax, connect with friends, and take a moment to refocus on faith in the middle of the week. No pressure, just a welcoming space to be yourself and grow together.
Retreats & Mission Trips
Each year, our youth grow in faith through retreats and mission experiences that take them deeper into community and service. Every November, students head to Asbury Hills for a fall youth retreat filled with worship, fun, and meaningful connection. In the spring, youth travel to Epworth-by-the-Sea for a time of reflection and spiritual renewal. During the summer, middle school students participate in a week of local mission projects, while senior high students take part in a week-long mission trip. Through these experiences, youth build lasting friendships and discover what it means to live out their faith in love and service.