All-Faith Youth Group

The Shelter Island All-Faith Youth Group is a safe, encouraging place where students are able to come to a deeper understanding of themselves and the world around them. The non-denominational organization allows teens to explore their spiritual side and their relationship with God.

They are able to express their feelings and struggles, and feel the compassion and love of their peers and God. 

Led by Brian Knipfing and Kate Davidson, the All-Faith Youth Group is open to all 8th through 12th graders. Weekly meetings take place every Wednesday during the school year from 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm at Camp Quinipet.  

The teens take occasional trips off Shelter Island to the movies, bowling, a Halloween corn maze, ice skating in Greenport and other fun activities. 

Students also serve at the Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper at St. Mary’s, collect food for the Shelter Island Food Pantry and other Island events, as well as participate in mission trips during the summer and retreat programs throughout the year.

Ultimately, the Youth Group is a place of fun, growth, discovery, spirituality, and love.

Summer Mission Trip

On August 19, 2016, eleven Shelter Island teens, along with leaders Kate Davidson and Bryan Knipfing, set out for Mastic Beach, NY to begin the group’s Summer Mission Trip. 

During the two days of service at the Poospatuck Reservation, the group helped to clear a lot where a new house will be built in the fall. The service work allowed participants to experience first-hand how Long Islanders are still struggling to recover from Hurricane Sandy. 

On the third day, the group stayed at Camp DeWolfe in Wading River to help clear a nature trail around the camp and prepare cabins for a new coat of paint. 

This year’s mission trip was full of hard work, laughter, eye-opening experiences and a chance to help those in need.

2016/ 2017 Update:

The All-Faith Youth Group got off to another great start in September 2016 with their annual pizza party kick-off. The group welcomed several new 8th graders and many returning members.

 In the fall, Youth Group members held a Food Drive to benefit the Shelter Island Food Pantry. They also visited a corn maze on the North Fork.

Winter brought a Toy Drive to benefit Little Flower in Wading River and our Winter Retreat in January at Camp Quinipet. During the retreat, eight Youth Group members discussed and reflected on the theme “Follow Me.” They also had to chance to have fun and grow closer to each other.

Weekly meetings continue on Wednesday night at 6:00 pm at Camp Quinipet. Discussion topics include “Tolerance and Acceptance,” “Gratitude,” “Fears” and “Affirming Others.”

Members enjoyed ice skating in Greenport on a frigid day in early March and will attend a Spring Retreat in May.

For more information, email Bryan Knipfing at shelterislandyg@gmail.com.