In early November, two youth joined Pr. Jacqui Pagel at the ELCA Youth Leadership Summit at Churchwide in Chicago. The summit brought together youth from more than 30 synods around the theme, "Called on the Way," focusing on the unique journeys individuals take in response to their calling and how those journeys shape their leadership abilities. The youth were glad to have been selected to participate and share reflections on their experiences in this post. 

Layra

I had so much fun meeting other people from other places. It was my first time flying and it was worth it to see Chicago and learn more about my church. I can’t wait to get back to my church and tell the other children about everything I did and learned. I will probably do a special message with the little children since I teach Sunday school about the many ways they can serve in our church. I learned that being part of church is more than going every Sunday morning.  

Here is a link to the video Layra prepared for her church. Called on the Way (canva.com)

Sarah

At first, I thought this was going to be like all the other church camps I went to. After meeting so many people from other places I saw that it was much more. I learned that the ELCA is active in many ways and many places all over the world. If Pr. Jacqui asks you to go to the Summit, you should go.  

Each year Churchwide provides scholarships for 3 youth from across the GCS to participate in the Summit. Each home congregation of the students that are selected to participate are asked to cover the air fare. If you are or you know a youth that would like to attend Youth Leadership Summit please contact Pr. Jacqui and look for applications in the GCS Newsletter Fall 2024.

This year’s event focused on how we all have the opportunity to advocate for each other and ourselves. Every year is something different that encourages us to be church together. Participation includes worship, to games, to advocacy break-outs, it was a fantastic weekend that reminded us of our calling to love God and take care of one another, our neighbors, and the planet. Students that participate will miss up to two days of school and are expected to be stellar students and already demonstrate leadership skills in their worship settings.