St. Alban's Episcopal Church

This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. – Psalm 118:24

I love this verse for many reasons, but mostly because each time I see it, like I did this morning in my morning devotional, it takes me back to when I was in high school in Eastern North Carolina participating in Youth Diocesan Events. We used to sing the song to this verse at many of those events, camps, etc. and to this day when I see it, the song starts to play in my head, and I remember that time that meant so much to me. I made friends with kids from all over the Diocese then and some I’m still in touch with today.

My greatest hope since doing this job has been to expose the youth and children of the church, including my own, to the many happy and wonderful experiences I recall from when I grew up in the Episcopal church. Many of those hopes have been realized including a strong Children’s Sunday School, great annual VBS program, Youth Sunday School class, a Sunday evening Middle/High Youth Group, and a beautifully renovated and dedicated Youth Room. Now, my wish is to take some of our youth to some of these amazing Diocesan events and expand our faith to a broader view. Bishops Ball is for Middle and High School, is a weekend event, and includes games, workshops, and a dance with the Bishops. I have not been but hear nothing but great things. Genesis is for our Middle Schoolers and is currently an overnight but has been over a weekend in the past. It explores our faith and includes talks by high school youth, small groups, games, and fun. There was something very similar when I was younger where I gave a talk and loved being a part of planning. Happening is for high school youth, currently an overnight, but usually a weekend and is a renewal weekend of songs, talks, small groups, worship, and fun. This was a life changing experience for me at a time where I needed it most. I sincerely recommend this one. Youth can even be on a planning team for all these events. There are so many amazing opportunities for our Youth, and I felt led to tell my story, share my experiences, and hopefully inspire others to attend.

If you look at the article below, you will find many youth events they are having in the Diocese coming up and more on the ones I mentioned. One, Episcopalooza, this year will be multigenerational for all ages. Please consider these for your Middle or High School Youth, they truly are wonderful experiences and if you are younger, my wish is for you to add it to your list of hopes for the future. Please reach out, share your hopes for our Youth and Children, and please let me know how I can help make them happen! Thank you for your support!