Destinations
St. Matthew’s Destinations program is a popular and dynamic Christian experience for our middle school youth and their friends (6th through 8 grade). The program, which involves a fun, mystery destination, is designed to provide children with an opportunity to build Christian community and fellowship, as well as socialize and have fun! Social growth and building community connections are especially important for middle schoolers, and Destinations fosters these objectives in engaging and interesting ways.
Slideshow of recent mystery destinations and activities
Destinations meetings are held once a month, typically on Wednesday evenings from 6 to 8 pm. St. Matthew’s often follows a program called “Destination Unknown” by Sam Halverson. We do not pre-announce the destinations since the “mystery” is part of the program’s appeal.
Meetings usually begin with a shared meal and team-building games, followed by the mystery destination/activity. Our destinations are local (within a 20-minute walk/drive), and the activities often open students’ eyes to various facets of their community while also inspiring them to think about the world and their own lives and faith. Meetings conclude with a scripture lesson and discussion related to the night’s visit.
Examples of recent destinations include the Pennington African Cemetery, BAPS Swaminarayan Akshardham Hindu temple in Robbinsville, Brandywine Senior Living for caroling, a hike to the top of Baldpate Mountain, a yoga studio, and a fall trip to a pumpkin patch at Chickadee Creek Farm. The students often share insightful observations and questions, inspired by experiences that help to build connections between their faith and their everyday lives and community.
Chickadee Creek Farm
Fun at The Watershed
Habitat for Humanity
Brandywine Senior Living for caroling
Destinations is led by dedicated parishioners Diana Drake and Phyllis Jones, with support from Director of Youth and Family Ministries, Cheryl Watterson. Parent volunteers provide meals for our meetings, and we encourage participation from new volunteers and welcome interesting destination ideas.
To learn more about Destinations or to suggest new opportunities, please contact Diana Drake at dglasseter@gmail.com or call/text her at 609-610-0679.
New members (from within and outside our parish) are ALWAYS welcome!