eycdioatl Summer Update

Many of you will have read of Bishop's newest directive for churches to remain meeting remotely until further notice. It has also been announced that Camp Mikell has canceled all Summer Camp sessions for Summer 2020. We felt it timely to also announce plans for Diocesan Youth Ministry for Summer 2020. 

Sally and I write this with a heavy heart. Bishop Wright and I have met and decided canceling atlSERVE is in the best interest of the youth of our diocese and those we serve. The safety of all people is our top priority and drove this decision.

The decision to postpone Steps to Lead to a later date has also been made. At this time, we are hopeful we will be able to gather a smaller group at the beginning of August. We will keep you updated on all developments. 

We understand this news can be discouraging. It can certainly feel as if all of our plans for young people are unraveling around us in real-time. In this heartbreak, a couple of things come to mind. 

1) We are a diocese known for lifting up our young people in roles of leadership, and we have led the way in this time of uncertainty. For the innovation we see in congregations, we can be proud. This is in large part due to your hard work. Thank you. 

2) God is still God, and there is much to be thankful for. In times we can be easily discouraged, we see Youth Sundays, Graduation Celebrations, youth becoming snail-mail pen-pals, and young people leaving cookies at the doorsteps of their youth leaders. We see the ministry, and we are encouraged. 

So, let us grieve together. And then let us come together for hope, faith, and courage. As said in Hebrews 10:24-25 "And let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day approaching." 

Please continue to reach out to one another, and let us know how the Offices of Youth Ministries can be a resource to your good work. 

In Christ,
Sally and Easton