Tell me More...

about the Presbytery Youth Council!

Reflections from the PYC Leadership Mini-Conference

and the PYC High School Retreat

Ecology of Calling Initiative

Foothills Presbytery Youth Council Leadership Mini-Conference

Sponsored by Presbyterian College

Reflection written by Wyatt Anthony, Easley Church and Presbytery Youth Council member.

On March 9th, 2025, I attended the Presbyterian College seminar at Lead Collective in Greenville as part of a monthly Presbytery Youth Council (PYC) meeting. This was a leadership seminar where the panel consisted of Rev. Buz Wilcoxon, Dr. Martha Moore-Keish, and Dr. Austin Shull. The overall theme was: What is your calling? This theme got my mind turning because I am always on the leading end of these retreats and never on the receiving end. As I navigate my way through high school, I think we as young adults always worry whether we are making the right decision or not.

Dr. Moore-Keish from Columbia Seminary gave insight into the theological aspect displaying how God is there through every step, not just when we need him but even in the good times. I have always thought pretty deeply about my future, wondering what is right for me, and hoping I will make the right decision. As I think of what is to come next I know God will always be by my side no matter the trial or tribulation. Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This verse always helps me remember that I am not alone in times of doubt and worry. Read More

"Limitless"

Reflection by Hope Johnson, member of Central Presbyterian and Foothills Presbytery Youth Council Co-Moderator

This past weekend, high school students from nine churches in Foothills Presbytery gathered in Montreat for a truly unforgettable retreat. Due to a snow storm in January, the Presbytery Youth Council had to push this weekend back a couple months and unfortunately some churches were not able to attend. Nevertheless, we embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm! With a smaller group, we enjoyed more intimate small group discussions, allowing us to deepen our connections with one another.

Our theme for the weekend was “Limitless” based on John 10:10b, “I came that they could have life- indeed, so that they could live life to the fullest.” Our keynoters for the weekend were Eliza and John Daniel DeBevoise. They were able to use the theme in many different ways throughout the weekend. They used the sub themes of Limitless God and Limitless Love to remind us even though we are limited, God is limitless and makes sure there is enough love for everyone. Rafe Andrews served as the music leader for the weekend. Rafe led us in familiar and new songs that related the theme “Limitless." Read More

More Photos

Would you like to nominate a youth for the 2025-26 Presbytery Youth Council?

The Committee on Shared Ministry is busy getting ready for the 2025-26 school year. An important and significant portion of our Youth Ministry is the Foothills Presbytery Youth Council (PYC). The PYC is made up of youth from the churches of Foothills Presbytery who demonstrate a desire to serve in Youth Ministry on the Presbytery level. As a leader in Youth Ministry in your congregation we are asking you to consider youth from your congregation who have shown leadership gifts and may feel called to serve on PYC.

Please complete the 2025-2026 Presbytery Youth Council Nomination Form by Thursday, March 27. This gives us time to send the nominees an application and schedule students for interviews by mid-April.

Please note: Nominations are open to rising 10 - 12 graders. Please prayerfully consider who you want to nominate, ask them for permission to be nominated, and go over the expectations of this service.