Duncan Bone, Clarkston United Methodist Church’s new director of youth ministries, is no stranger to Clarkston.
He served a summer intership at the church in 2010, helping with Vacation Bible School and Youth Group mission trips.
“We went to New Orleans, Washington D.C., Indianapolis, Flint,” he said.
Bone, 24, grew up in North Branch and went to Spring Arbor University, where he earned a degree in marketing.
“It’s going great,” he said. “I’m still learning, forming relationships. It’s been fun, getting to know the community.”
Projects for the youth group include Trunk or Treat, Oct. 27-28, and a College Week tour.
“I’ll travel around to universities and visit teens who graduated, deliver care packages, and touch base as much as possible,” he said. “It’s a new thing. I spent time with them when I was an intern.?
The group has about 90 members, about 65 active. As director, his job includes keeping youth engaged in their faith as they head off to college and beyond.
“After high school, three quarters of students don’t go back to church ? that hits home for me,” he said. “They need something they’re not getting.”
His plan includes more leadership opportunities for teens during church services, organization, construction, and anything else they’re good at.
“Give them ownership they can transfer to their adult ministry,” he said.
He and his wife, Elizabeth Bone, live in Oxford. Elizabeth, who is studying to be an elementary teacher, is assistant director of youth ministries.
For more information, call Clarkston United Methodist Church, 6600 Waldon Road, at 248-620-8406.