March 2020 Newsletter
LAST CALL

Pre-Confirmation Retreats are a chance for young people of the Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts to meet other young people discerning their call to Confirmation, or even just the faith journey in general. The retreats do not try to sum up a year’s worth of classes in one overnight, but we do try to give all who come a feeling for how making a commitment to one’s faith can be lived out not only in church, but in the world and in every part of our day. One of our bishops will join us on each retreat.

The Retreats are led by the members of the Diocesan Youth Council, 10th-12th graders who see part of their leadership and ministry as welcoming all the youth attending retreats, leading small groups, and giving reflections on their own spiritual journeys. They look forward to getting to know you all!

Pre-Confirmation Retreats are held at the Barbara C. Harris Camp and Conference Center, and there are two weekends ( March 20-21 and April 3-4 ) to choose from. Get in touch with the Youth Missioner, the Rev. H. Mark Smith, for more information.
We can't wait to hear from you!
Youth Worker Survey 2020

As we move into the new decade, the Office of Youth Ministry is looking to get a sense of how youth ministry is happening across the diocese, and how we can best help support you.

We ask that you take a minute to fill out this survey to let us know what youth ministry looks like in your congregation. Whether you're a priest or a parent, a lay leader or a youth leader, we want to hear from you!
How will you spend your summer?
How about hiking, boating, campfires, swimming, learning, archery, arts & crafts, worship, challenge course, dance, theater, music, camping, and so much more!

Registration is open for Summer Camp at Barbara C. Harris Camp & Conference Center. And be sure to check out the revamped programs for senior campers --Leadership Base; Sports Base, and Outdoor Base.

Remember that the sooner you register, the more likely you will get the schedule you want! Scholarship support is available.
SUMMA Theological Debate Camp

Students of all backgrounds and faith traditions entering grades 9-12 in the fall of 2020 can now apply for SUMMA Theological Debate Camp at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee. There's no better place to enjoy the great outdoors, make new friends, and explore life's biggest questions!

SUMMA campers attend theology lectures and seminars led by clergy and University professors that broaden understanding of the Christian faith tradition and its enduring relevance in our lives today. They work in small groups to form debate arguments and engage in stimulating discussions that hone critical-thinking and analytical skills. During the end-of-camp debate tournament, each camper argues the affirmative and negative positions of a debate resolution.

Visit summa.sewanee.edu for more information and to apply.
Application deadline: June 1, 2020 .
Resources for Youth Ministry
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This month, we’re highlighting The Dougy Center , a nonprofit that focuses on supporting grieving young people and their families. Some of the resources they provide include simple and accessible tip sheets (including ones for young people who are grieving and for their friends and the adults in their lives ), self-care tips for young people, and a Bill of Rights of Grieving Teens written by young people participating in programs at the Dougy Center. We hope these resources will help you to meet young people where they are and accompany them through a time of grief.


For more ideas and resources, check out Talking Shop , our re-vamped resources blog!
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