Whoosh!

Was that EYE and 3 Days of Mission that the Holy Spirit blew through over the past ten days?

It seems like it was place apart, suspended in forever, while spinning by at light speed all at the same time.

I hardly know where to begin other than to say thank you. Thank you for praying for the team, staff, speakers, preachers, workshop and fellowship leaders, hospitality coordinators, missioners, and participants who, empowered by the Spirit, Came Together and made this 2011 Episcopal Youth Event something sacred.

Together, through our worship, our connections, our songs, our prayers, and our stories, we began changing lives on the Holy Ground in Minnesota. I invite you to join me in prayers of gratitude for the Summer Conference staff of Bethel University. Kyle Sherer, Conference Manager, and Kerri Baker, Technical Director, were more than gracious and accommodating; they and their staff members empowered us by remaining faithful to their call as Christians in the Baptist tradition, helping to equip us for discipleship. Thank you, Bethel staff!

The most important part of this journey in Christ is that we continue our own faithfulness in mentoring our young people as disciples in the wake of their EYE and mission experiences this summer. These young people have a compassionate heart and several church leaders, from The Most Rev. Katharine Jefferts Schori to House of Deputies President Bonnie Anderson, have told them that there is no time like the present. We need their prophetic vision, their enthusiasm, and their energy for mission now. Bishop Katharine told them to "get connected" and go out and "heal the world."  President Bonnie invited them to "jump in to the waters of Baptism." Dr. Rodger Nishioka from the Presbyterian tradition told them that they'd better get ready to work hard and to explore their priorities as consumers and as Christians.

I assured all those who listened that they have the gifts they need to be disciples now. I assured them that if they show up faithfully with ideas and energy for putting their faith in action, the community of faithful, who helped affirm their Baptism, will show up to work with them.

I am ready to help them, with God's help. Are you?

There were 730 high school youth, 310 adults, and 50 bishops at EYE, including the planning team and resource staff. Over 1100 people came together to Build upon their faith, Share their stories as Christians, and to Fulfill their call to join in God's mission for the world. They generously gave during worship each of our three days together; $2528.68 to help Rebuild the Diocese of Haiti, $1594.78 for Episcopal Relief and Development, and $2082.43 for the United Thank Offering.

Many put their faith in action during EYE as they participated in Mission Possible on the opening night. Hundreds worked on the Net Zero Habitat for Humanity House. Many more participated in a variety of mission experiences, cultural immersions, and historic pilgrimages during 3 Days of Mission. Many already have plans to help at home with camp, vacation Bible school, and local mission as well as mission afar this summer. All were reminded through our Gospel for the event that we are not alone in this work

"This is a large work I've called you into, but don't be overwhelmed by it. It's best to start small. Give a cool cup of water to someone who is thirsty, for instance. The smallest act of giving or receiving makes you a true apprentice. You won't lose out on a thing."  Matthew 10: 41-42 The Message

Let the prayers continue.

Let the stories be told.

Let us get out of the way and let this rising generation of faithful Christians be welcomed, affirmed and empowered for ministry to help heal a hurting world.

How can you learn more and stay connected?

www.eye2011portal.com
Episcopal News Service - Article 2 and Article 3
EpiscoYouth Blog (you're here :)
EpiscoYouth Network News (publication will resume soon!)

With Gratitude, Hope, and Joy!
Bronwyn

Bronwyn Clark Skov
Officer for Youth Ministries
The Episcopal Church