St. Mary’s Ramona Launches Youth Collaborative

At St. Mary’s in Ramona, we are thrilled to announce the selection of Ray Swavely–the first-ever Youth Director for the Ramona Youth Collaborative. This moment marks the launch of an exciting new chapter for youth ministry in Ramona, built on years of relationship, shared vision, and deep collaboration between four local churches.

The Ramona Youth Collaborative is a joint ministry effort of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, Spirit of Joy Lutheran Church, Ramona United Methodist Church, and First Congregational Church of Ramona (UCC). Led by Pastors Kristie Grimaud, Wes Ellis, Lawrence Hand, and myself, this ecumenical partnership has grown organically over time through shared worship services, community events, and now, a united commitment to nurturing youth in a progressive, inclusive environment.

We began dreaming of this role more than a year ago, recognizing that none of our churches alone had the resources to support a robust youth ministry—but together, we could. Through joint grant writing, shared fundraising, and the hard work of drafting bylaws, forming a governing board, and listening carefully to the needs of our young people, the vision took shape. And now, it’s a reality.

We are especially grateful to the Episcopal Diocese of San Diego and Bishop Susan Brown Snook for awarding us a $24,000 Courageous Love Grant, which helped make this vision possible. This grant—funded by generous donors throughout the diocese—exists to support courageous, love-filled ministries that transform communities, strengthen congregations, and extend the reach of the Church. The Ramona Youth Collaborative is living into that vision, and we are deeply thankful for the support.

Ray Swavely brings over a decade of experience in youth ministry, both as a volunteer and paid staff person, most recently as Youth Director at La Mesa First United Methodist Church. Ray revitalized a struggling youth group there, growing it from just a couple of participants to a thriving community of 15 young people engaged in weekly programming, retreats, confirmation, and leadership development. He also brings extensive experience from Camp Cedar Glen, a beloved United Methodist camp where he has served as both counselor and support staff.

Ray’s philosophy is grounded in creating safe, brave, and welcoming spaces for young people to explore their faith, ask hard questions, and find belonging. As he puts it, “One of my greatest passions is giving youth and young adults space to understand themselves and their spiritual journey.” His heart for ecumenical connection—something he longed for more of within his own denomination—makes him a natural fit for this collaborative ministry.

We selected Ray not only for his experience but for his heart. He had instant rapport with the youth who participated in the interview process. His references spoke glowingly of his ability to connect across generations, his calm leadership, and his pastoral presence. Ray also happens to love off-roading and camping, which we think makes him a great fit for Ramona’s mountain-town vibe and adventurous spirit.

As one of the pastors involved in the Collaborative, I can say with joy and confidence: Ray is the right person at the right time. In a world where young people often feel isolated, judged, or unheard, it is more important than ever to create spaces where they are welcomed as they are and accompanied with care. Ray is someone who can shepherd this vision into reality.

We look forward to introducing Ray to our congregations and the wider community in the coming weeks. Please join us in praying for his ministry and for the youth of Ramona—that they might find in this new program a place to grow, belong, and experience God’s love more fully.

We’re just getting started—and the future is bright.

To support more ministries like the Ramona Youth Collaborative, click here. 

For more information or to get involved with the Ramona Youth Collaborative, visit stmarysramona.org.