Jan Akin Bio

Youth and Family Ministry has been a primary and important part of my life since 1984 through the Episcopal Diocese of Olympia, which encompasses all of Western Washington. Work on the Provencal and National level has been accomplished through various conferences and events created for youth and the families that nurture them. Much of the foundation of the ministry that I have been blessed with was laid here at St. Benedict’s. 1999 through 2008 was spent as Youth and Family Ministries Director at St. John’s, Olympia and now I am privileged to live and work among the generous and gracious people of St. Benedict’s again. Our time together will be varied and concentrate on the individual needs and interests of all who participate in three separate youth groups for Upper Elementary youth in the 4^th & 5^th grade, Junior High youth 6^th - 8^th grades, and High School. We will explore the steps towards a Young Adult ministry as we progress.  

As the years have passed, I have served on various Bishop’s Commissions including Faith Formation and Colleagues in Children’s Ministry, and coordinated workshops for Diocesan Resource Day, presented the Child Abuse Prevention training throughout the Diocese from 1995 through 2007 and coordinated a Willapa Hills Regional residential summer camp known as Camp Michael since 1991. 

I look forward to the many new opportunities at St. Benedict’s and invite all youth from throughout the community (Grades 4 through 12) to join us on Wednesday evenings at 7pm for the adventures that await all of us! Please call me for any questions and suggestions and invitations that may await you, as well!