Two Events for Adult Leaders
For many of us, we often feel as if we are alone in struggling to minister to our youth and their families. There are significant challenges – not enough resources (time, money), many competing activities, and way more comments of the “Why didn’t you…” and “You should have..” than of the “Thanks for…” and “Good job!” variety – not to mention our own concerns about how prepared and capable we are to do this work.
There are two upcoming events that can help with some of those challenges: the ELCA Youth Ministry Network’s Extravaganza in February 2010 and the Gathering in the East in April 2010.
Some of us in Metro DC have attended both events for a number of years and have found them to provide many opportunities for personal renewal, getting connected, learning, and finding encouragement. I hope you will prayerfully consider joining us for at least one of these events. I’ve attached brochures for both events – and you can check out the websites for more information and details.
Please share this information with any other adults you know who are involved in congregational youth ministry. Let me know if you have any questions about either event or if you are interested in attending – we’d love to see you there!
Extravaganza
The ELCA Youth Ministry Network exists to strengthen and empower adult youth ministry leaders in service to Christ as a part of God’s mission. Ever year, as a piece of that mission, the Network hosts the Extravaganza – a 4-day conference that draws together adults who work with youth in congregations of the ELCA for the premier renewal, education and networking event of our church. It is for the professional and the volunteer. It is for the old and the young. It is for the urban, the suburban and the rural. It is for pastors, it is for laypeople. It is for all who share in the adventure we call youth and family ministry.
In short, the Extravaganza is about Renewal, Education, and Connection (networking).
The 2010 event, Irresistible, will be held in Charlotte, NC from February 5-8 with Intensive Care Courses available beginning on the 4th. Basic registration for the event (with Network membership) is $314 before December 31.
Gathering in the East
The Gathering in the East was a regional spin-off of the Extravaganza, designed to meet the needs of congregational youth ministry adults in the mid-Atlantic area. The 2010 event is being held the weekend of April 16-18 in Harrisburg, PA.
Registration for GIE starts at $150 for registration before December 31, and there is a team discount for three or more coming from the same congregation.
