DOVE USA Youth
We are raising up the next generation to follow Jesus as Lord, and walk in their identity as children of God.
Who We Are
DOVE began as a youth movement in the 1970s when Larry and LaVerne Kreider started ministering in low-income neighborhoods throughout Lancaster County. The Kreiders witnessed dozens of youth of the region begin to give their lives to Christ. Momentum grew as this group multiplied and by 1980, DOVE Christian Fellowship was formed. Fast forward to today and we are now a network of churches across the USA, yet we continue to yearn to see the next generation equipped and empowered for Jesus. DOVE USA Youth functions to serve as a resource and encouragement to our youth leaders across the USA throughout the year. Each year we hold events that gather our youth and create opportunities for the young people of DOVE to discover who God is, who He says they are, and how God has equipped them to participate in the Kingdom.
Training Opportunities
Evangelistic Missions Training Each summer EMT (Evangelistic Missions Training) has been transforming lives. Students gather for a week of teaching and hands-on outreach that models “the normal Christian life” of loving God and reaching others.
Youth Short-term Teams and Internships We send next gen teams on international missions trips where students serve, experience the global church, and step into Jesus’ call to the harvest.
Youth Winter Retreat
What you wear, who you hang out with, your ability. The world says that this is who you are. But, what if who you are is determined by what God says about you? What if your life was rooted in Him? Would there be any storm that you couldn’t handle? Join us and hundreds of young Jesus-followers this January to find out!
Youth Leader’s Retreat
March 13 – 15, 2026 at Mount Union, PA
REST | RENEW | CONNECT
Every other year we host a dedicated weekend for everyone who serves in youth ministry. Whether you’re a primary leader, a supportive leader, or a faithful volunteer, this getaway is designed to refuel you, strengthen your leadership, and we try keep it budget-friendly. For the details, email youth@dcfi.org.
DOVE USA Youth Leaders
Nick and Emily Payne
Nick and Emily Payne lead the DOVE USA Youth Team and are passionate about discipleship and developing next-generation leaders. Their heart is to inspire and equip youth and young adults to live surrendered to Christ and rooted in their identity as beloved children of God.
Nick also serves as Associate Pastor at Crossroads Community Church in Winchester, VA, where he also oversees the youth and young adult ministries.
Emily is the Office Manager at Crossroads Community Church providing leadership and support across the church community.
Contact
Email Nick at youth@dcfi.org for questions, more information, or upcoming events within DOVE USA Youth.
