The Episcopal Church is a member of the world wide Anglican Communion. There are more than 70 million Anglican Christians, in 29 autonomous churches spread across 160 countries in every continent. The Episcopal Church is comprised of approximately 116 dioceses in nine provinces. The Episcopal Church is an international church; our 2.5 million baptized members live in 7,413 parishes in the United States, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Haiti, Micronesia, Taiwan, the Virgin Islands, the Convocation of American Churches in Europe, and in the Armed Forces.33

Our structure allows for and encourages networking between people. That means you are an important link in the ministry of which we all are a part. Take seriously what you do as a youth leader, but don't be overwhelmed! There are places and people to go to for information, help, and support as you plan and carry out your youth program.

In the following pages you will discover lots of good stuff to get you going and keep you on the right track. You can't do ministry by yourself, so your support system is very important. Along the way you will see questions to ask in the process. Don't stop with these only-ask your own!