August Youth News

Breathe With Me

As we gear up to begin a school year that may look different and feel different, we might be experiencing a wave of different emotions. Maybe we feel excited and joyful, maybe we are anxious or nervous, some of us may even be sad or scared. Whatever your emotions might be as you head into the new school year, they are valid and okay. It's okay to feel how you feel. Let's breathe together.

Find a comfortable seated position in a safe quiet space - your own sanctuary. Close your eyes and pay attention to your breath. You and God, alone in this sacred, safe place. For 10 breath cycles, pray the following:

Inhale: God, my light, guide me.
Pause.
Exhale: Help me feel your presence.

"Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."
-Joshua 1:9

Breathe, knowing that you are not alone as you begin this school year. Trust that God is with you, leading you and guiding you during these uncertain times. 

Where do you feel God's presence in your life? Be intentional about looking for ways that God works in your daily life and routine. 

Confirmation

Mark your calendars! We will celebrate our 2020 Confirmands on September 20, 2020. Whether we are outside in the parking lot, or inside the building - we can't wait to celebrate the students who are taking another step in their journey of faith!

Junior High Get Together

We are so excited to actually SEE YOU IN PERSON at an outdoor, socially distanced gathering on Sunday August 2. From 6:30-8:00 pm, we'll meet outside the church for ice cream (individually packaged) and a socially distant activity. This will be for all of the incoming 6th-8th graders. Watch your emails for details, and reach out to Pastor Jim or Kelsey with questions!

Graduating Seniors

Join us at our Parking Lot Worship at 9:30 am on Sunday August 2 as we celebrate and honor our 2020 Graduating Seniors!

2021 ELCA Youth Gathering Update

There has a big update regarding plans for the 2021 ELCA Youth Gathering in Minneapolis, MN. They have decided to postpone the Gathering to 2022. If you have an 8th-12th grader this year, please read the Gathering's update here. 

Youth Group

Each week, it seems things change regarding future plans. Youth Group is scheduled to begin again on Wednesday September 9. Please know that we are working on ways to connect this coming fall, and what that might look like. My hope is that we can find a way to meet in person, but we'll know more after school starts and fall draws near. For now, please watch your text messages and emails for Zoom gatherings, and maybe even a social distance outdoor gathering sometime in August!

I hope you are all staying safe and healthy! Missing you!

Peace,

Kelsey Ellis