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virginia synod youth events
All youth from St. Mark have the opportunity to gather with other youth from across the Synod for a time of fun, fellowship, learning, and worship. Below you will find a description of each event offered and for whom it is intended. Should you have any questions or if you are interested in attending one or all of these events, please contact a youth advisor.
For Junior High Youth
7th Day is the first overnight Synod event that youth are able to experience. This event is for 5th and 6th graders and is a 2 day/1 night event that explores various aspects of faith or a particular Bible story over the course of the weekend. You can expect lots of energy with large group sessions, but also different activities in smaller group sessions. Small groups of youth (usually less than 12) are able to experience different activities (art, story telling, etc.) together in order to connect with the weekend's theme. This event is usually held at Eagle Eyrie Retreat Center (Lynchburg, VA) in March.
Lost and Found is an event held at Eagle Eyrie Retreat Center in November each year. Designed for 7th and 8th graders, this 3 day/2 night retreat gives youth the ability to grow deeper in their understanding of God, their faith, and each other. This event is planned by the help of a youth/adult planning group and encompasses large group activities (singing, games, skits, planning group presentations) and small group learning time. Small groups give youth the ability to connect more to others within their own age group, and experience discussing matters of faith. There is ample opportunity for free time, ice cream (shop at Eagle Eyrie), and even a talent show. A worship service is held on Saturday evening for all participants.
For Senior High Youth
Winter Celebration has become such a popular event for the Virginia Synod that it is held over two weekends (usually in January) and congregations have the option of which week to attend. This event is designed for all 9-12 graders and is much like Lost and Found. Participants experience large group activities (singing, dancing, skits, presentations) and small group reflection time. Small group reflections are often some of the most meaningful times of this event. The intentional community setting helps youth to be free to express themselves on aspects relevant to their own faith journey. This event is themed and there are opportunities for free time, worship (on Saturday evening), and the talent show.
Kairos is a Greek word which is literally translated as "God's Time". This week-long event is held at Roanoke College in June and seeks to build a truly intentional Christian community for all participants. There are times for large and small groups. Each night, groups usually present a skit relating to what they have learned and discussed that day. Kairos mornings begin with matins (quiet reflections and journaling) and lead into a group Bible Study with the event chaplain. Each day has structured time for free time and each evening brings fun activities of its own. There is even rumored to be a "BEATLES FEST" on Thursday night prior to leaving. This is a great event for any youth who wants to really grow closer to God and deeper in your faith.
Virginia Synod Youth to Youth Project
Each year youth from all across Virginia participate in a fundraising event to raise money for something that is going on in our sister companion synod, The Island District of Papua New Guinea. Please see the information below regarding what you can do to help the Youtherans in this ministry.
What is it? A service program created by the Virginia Synod, ELCA in 1999.
Why it is important? The Youth to Youth project connects Virginia Synod junior and senior high youth with other youth around the world, in order that they might learn about their situation and make contributions of support.
How can I contribute? Support St. Mark Youtheran fundraisers. Some of the money we raise will go to the Youth to Youth Project.
To learn more about the Youth to Youth Project:
http://members.cox.net/youthtoyouth/Read what Dave Delaney has to say about the Youth to Youth Project:
http://www.vasynod.org/index.cfm/fa/content.view/menuID/681.htm
Questions? Comments? Concerns? Email us!