About the RYC
The Ramona Youth Collaborative (RYC) is a unique combination of churches, First Congregation Church, St. Mary's-in-the-Valley Episcopal Church, Ramona United Methodist Church and Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, bring together different beliefs but united with the same core values
Core Values
1. Love
Love is the foundation of all we do. Rooted in the love of Christ, we teach and practice a faith that is not just personal but communal—one that calls us to care for one another and seek justice in the world. We believe that discipleship is not about obligation but about joyful participation in God’s love, and we encourage young people to follow Jesus in ways that reflect grace, compassion, and a deep sense of belonging.
This love is not passive; it moves us to action. It compels us to advocate for those on the margins, to care for the hurting, and to work for a world that more fully reflects God’s kingdom. Love is not just a feeling—it is a way of life.
2. Radical Hospitality
We are committed to creating a space where every young person is seen, heard, and valued. Radical hospitality means more than simply welcoming—it means embracing. It means making room for all, regardless of background, identity, or belief, and ensuring that every young person knows they belong.
This commitment to hospitality also extends to how we approach faith formation. We honor the questions, doubts, and struggles of young people, encouraging them to engage in spiritual curiosity rather than demanding easy answers. We believe faith grows in open conversation, in wrestling with big questions, and in encountering the diverse ways God is at work in the world.
3. Spiritual Depth
Faith is not a surface-level endeavor—it is a lifelong journey into the heart of God. We encourage young people to explore Scripture, prayer, and worship in ways that foster real transformation. But spiritual depth is not just about individual growth; it is about shared formation. We believe young people grow best in community, learning from one another and from the wisdom of those who have gone before them.
A deep faith is also an engaged faith—one that does not turn away from the world’s pain but seeks to respond with love and justice. As young people deepen their spiritual lives, we encourage them to live out their faith in ways that bring healing, reconciliation, and hope.
By grounding ourselves in Love, Radical Hospitality, and Spiritual Depth, the Ramona Youth Collaborative seeks to cultivate a faith that is both deeply rooted and widely reaching—a faith that transforms lives and brings people together in the love of Christ.