86245_Crosswalk.qxp
10/12/2005
Pentecost II, 2005
9:57 AM
Page 15
Crosswalk
20 BELOW!
(YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS)
Youth share talent and treasure beyond Upper SC EYE 2005, Happening “Uno” highlight Upper SC summer By the Rev. Sue von Rautenkranz
E
very three years, our Church holds a national event for young people called EYE—the Episcopal Youth Event. This year young people from all over the United States and Central and South America gathered for five days of fellowship, learning, and worship. “Can You Catch the Spirit Off the Beaten Path?” was the theme for this EYE, as we gathered on the campus of Berea College in Berea, KY—more than 1,400 youth and adult sponsors. More than 50 bishops attended, including Bishop Henderson. Our Upper SC group totaled 15, representing many of our congregations as well as our Youth Commission. While there were many serious workshops offered this year, it seems that the two most popular ones were knitting and dorky dancing. Look for the dorky dancing workshop at upcoming diocesan youth events, and get ready to receive some different-looking Christmas presents this year.
(I’ve already received a knitted bookmark!) Each day there were new knitters among us, including many young men and a few bishops! Another highlight of the week was the Cultural Carnival, an event that has grown over the years to an amazing display of cultural oddities and celebrations. This year the Diocese of Maryland topped the experience by bringing live blue crabs for people to “catch.” Youth Ministry is alive and well in the Episcopal Church and there are amazing young people who are gifted leaders sharing their love of God and this Church! —continued at top of next page
I loved meeting the youth from everywhere—from Hawaii to Maine. The cross-cultural fair was fun when we got to walk from booth to booth and see what every state is known for. Bishop Michael Curry from North Carolina was a great speaker. I could have listened to him all day. —Michael Petry, St. Bartholomew’s, N. Augusta
Being at EYE was a truly wonderful experience. I don’t think I’ve ever felt so welcome to be open about faith, especially being around so many people! EYE was an amazing experience. The very first Eucharist was really awesome! I loved the way our preacher not only connected with us but was extremely emotionally involved in his sermon. EYE was just an overall great experience. —Katie Reilly, St.David’s,Columbia
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Upper SC at EYE, with Bishop Henderson (back row left) and Presiding Bishop Griswold (back row center). Photo courtesy of Ministries with Young People, Episcopal Church Center