Be the light

learning & Leadership Program

SUMC is excited to announce the launch of the Be the Light Learning & Leadership Program, a new intergenterational after-school ministry designed to support local intermediate students while creating meaningful leadership opportunities for middle & high school youth. 


The program will meet each Wednesday from 3:15-5:30 PM at the Stewartville United Methodist Church beginning in October and continuing through May, with breaks corresponding to holidays and school breaks. 

Third & Fourth Grade Students

will have the opportunity for homework assistance and academic support in reading, writing, and math, along with hands-on experiences in STEAM, music, art, and other creative activities.

Middle & High School Students

would serve as youth leaders, tutors, mentors, and activity leaders. Through training and hands-on experiences, these young leaders will develop communication, mentoring, problem-solfving, and leadership skills while building relationships with younger children.

Adult volunteers

We are looking for retired educators, parents, church members, & community partners that are willing to will work alongside the youth to provide tutoring, enrichment activities, encouragement, & mentorship. 

Inspired by the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:13–16—the call to be salt and light in the world—and modeled in part after the successful SALT tutoring and mentoring program at St. John’s in Stewartville, Be the Light grew from a conversation about the needs of local third- and fourth-grade students. Pastor Jeff Goeldi and Director of Children, Youth, & Food Shelf Ministries Kristin Gontea began brainstorming how SUMC could use the gifts already present within the congregation to bring together children, youth, adults, and community partners in a ministry that would strengthen the whole community.

What happens each wednesday?

A typical afternoon will include: 

  • Student arrival & welcome
  • Team-building activities lead by youth leaders
  • Healthy snacks and fellowship
  • Academic tutoring and homework support
  • STEAM, music, art, or other creative enrichment
  • Small-group reflection and devotion
  • Dismissal and communication with families

volunteers needed

A program like Be the Light depends on people who are willing to share their time,

talents, and encouragement. SUMC is actively seeking adult volunteers and community partners to help with tutoring, mentoring, enrichment activities, snacks, special events, and other aspects of the program.

SIgn up to Volunteer

Connect with us

Families with third- or fourth-grade students who may benefit from free tutoring,

mentoring, and enrichment are encouraged to contact Stewartville United Methodist

Church for more information about enrollment and participation.


Phone: 507-533-4625

Email: frontdoor@stewartvilleumc.org

“We are excited to create a place where children can receive the academic support and encouragement they need while older youth discover their own gifts as leaders and mentors,” said Pastor Jeff Goeldi. “This is an opportunity for our church to live out what it means to be a light in our community.”


Together, we can help the next generation Be the Light.