Roots Youth

The basis of the Roots Team is the Word of God, recorded for us in Holy Scripture, and as summarized in the confessions of the Canadian Reformed and United Reformed Churches: the Belgic Confession, the Heidelberg Catechism, and the Canons of Dort.

Organizing events for Reformed youth in southern Ontario that, under God’s blessing, edify, encourage, and foster fellowship through singing, sound teaching, and service. 

Reformed youth in southern Ontario who are rooted and built up in Christ, established in the Reformed faith, and serving the church with thankfulness. 

Through the Decades

At ROOTS Youth, we are committed to seeing Reformed youth in southern Ontario "rooted and built up in Christ", established in the Reformed faith, and serving the church with thankfulness. Even though our methods have changed over the decades, our love for Christ and our commitment to fostering faith and fellowship in the next generation remain the same. 

The Early Days 

Going back to the 1960's and 70's, our organization was known simply as “Young People’s.” Before the time of social media, our events were a primary way for Reformed youth to meet and build community across southern Ontario. The staple of this era was the annual “YPS Study Weekends,” held every Easter and Thanksgiving weekend. These events ran from Friday night through Monday morning, with attendees, mostly aged 16 and up, billeting with local families. These weekends were formative times of study, social interaction, and lasting friendship.

Today

Through the early 2000's, a need for better organization became evident and in 2008, it resulted in the birth of what is now known as ROOTS. Although the organization shifted, the core purpose remained constant: supporting and encouraging Christian youth in Reformed circles. Today, ROOTS is a dedicated team of youth serving under the leadership of Smithville Canadian Reformed Church, whose mission is to provide Christ-centred events where young people can grow in their faith together.