If you’re looking for a place that welcomes you just as you are, please consider joining our awesome group of youth at Grace.

Sunday Programming (Grades 5-8)

After the Children’s Moment, students in grades 5-8 are invited to join us in Grace’s “living room”  for games and Bible study. In this class, we embrace curiosity and wonder. We’re not afraid to ask questions without answers, and we trust in a God who loves us unconditionally and calls each of us by name. Students return to the sanctuary to join the congregation for communion.

Older youth are always welcome to serve as helpers in the younger classrooms or to participate in the worship service..   

Middle School Youth Group

We weren’t quite sure what to call it—so for now, we’re calling it The Thing.

Think of this as a third space for teens. It’s not school. It’s not a club or a sport. It’s a place where nothing is required of them—just show up, be real, and belong.

We share a meal, do something fun, and spend time talking about things that actually matter. Our guiding theme is connection: connection to ourselves, connection to others, and connection to something greater than ourselves.

Who: Students in grades 6-8

When: Last Tuesday of each month, 6:30–8:30 p.m.

Where: Grace Church, 8595 NE Day Rd, Bainbridge Island 

Leadership Team

Bea Crook
Walker Hauptman
Kathie McCarthy

Bea Crook

Bea is a mom and therapist who loves creating fun, welcoming spaces for teens. She brings creativity, curiosity, and a genuine respect for each young person’s journey. When she’s not at Grace, you can find her outdoors, reading, enjoying time with family and friends, or exploring new hobbies like rowing and meditation.

Walker Hauptman

As a teen at Grace, Walker Hauptman was deeply involved in the youth group and summer pilgrimages—experiences that left a lasting impact on him. Today, he serves as the Deputy Director at Bainbridge Island Rowing, where he coaches high school boys and works with youth year-round. He says, “I look forward to growing a space where young people can dive into the topics of self-reflection, connection, spirituality, and many topics that maybe they don't have the ability to approach in other parts of their lives.”

Kathie McCarthy

Two decades ago, Kathie began her work in youth ministry at Grace. She is stepping back in to support Walker, a former youth group “kid,” as he takes the lead. Kathie brings her experience as a therapist, teacher, and lifelong spiritual explorer, having led Confirmation, “Who’s Your Jesus” workshops, women’s retreats, and wilderness sojourns.

High School Youth Group – Coming Fall 2026

Grace Church is launching a high school youth group this fall for students in grades 9-12! Stay tuned for dates, events, and ways to get involved!

Other Youth Events

Our youth have gone on summer pilgrimages, ski trips, served La Iglesia Episcopal de la Resurrección in Mount Vernon, joined other generations at Grace for Service Sundays, and participated in a multitude of faith-formation opportunities. We also host regular hangouts, to give teens a chance to relax, enjoy each other’s company, and build friendships in a low-pressure setting.

Want to learn more or volunteer with us? Sign up for our youth e-news or contact Melissa Meyers, our Coordinator of Children, Youth, and Family Programs.