St. David's Episcopal Church ~ Youth Ministry News

Hello Friend!

This past week held some great conversations!  If you missed them, please feel free to contact me directly so we can catch up.  In the meantime, I have attached some brief documents to this email that will outline just a couple of items that we discussed with both students and parents.

Please know that your presence is a blessing to me and getting to know you is my privilege.  You will begin to hear plans of 'home meetings' where parents will host a group of students for light refreshments and conversation.  These gatherings are meant to be relationship builders so that together we can discern where the Spirit is taking us.

As you head back to school in the coming days, please know you are on my mind and in my prayers.

~ God's Peace, Duana  
This Week: Aug 20 - Aug 26
Aug. 20:  (today!) Songfest with Chef and Rick Patrick.  Any musician (any instrument) or singer is invited to come and join in the jam session. Meet in Bethel at 7:00pm - 9:00pm
 
Aug. 24:  Welcome Home Sunday
This is a time to visit with Formation Leaders and see what is coming up this semester.  Come by the "youth booth" for a sweet treat!

Blessing of the Backpacks
As we begin a new season of learning, we invite everyone to bring backpacks, briefcases, laptop cases, or whatever you use in your learning to church on Sunday.  A prayer will be offered to bless the upcoming year.
 

Aug. 25:  Austin ISD and others...BACK TO SCHOOL!

Every student and parent is in my prayers today as we send them off to school.  (Including those who have already started!)
Youth Forum Facilitators
 
 This year we are revamping what used to be called "Sunday School".  Beginning September 7th, we will have Youth Forums during the formation hour (more information on that to come.) But to be successful, we need faithful adults to help us facilitate the conversations.  We are currently in need of 4 adults.  Our budget allows for a small stipend for one of those spots. 
  
So, students and parents, if you know of an adult that would be a great fit, please introduce us!
  
(This is not necessarily a 'parent' job unless you feel called to be present with students of a different age group from your child.)
I can be reached at: 512.610.3525 or by email.
Documents & Information
Welcome Home Sunday will be a great time for me to share some of what is coming up, but it's a lot!  Attached here you can find some information you can review later. 
   
 
 
 
Cross Words
Do you know anyone that thinks so much about outwardly appearances and what other think that you wonder what their heart is really like? 
Consider this:

Jesus said, "It's not what goes into the mouth that contaminates a person in God's sight. It's what comes out of the mouth that contaminates the person."

Matthew 15:11

Words can hurt and sometimes when we say things we don't mean.  I know I'm guilty from time to time.  When that happens, my heart really hurts.  What about you?  How do you feel when angry or hurtful words escape? What do you do about it? 
  Praying that you hear especially kind words this week!
Upcoming Diocesan Events
Diocesan Events are great ways for students to connect with the larger Episcopal Church and with other students outside their own parish.  If you have questions about this, please feel free to contact me.
 

Youth Encounter Spirit

(YES) #113
Middle School only

Sept 5 - 7

Location: Camp Allen

Registration Info

Happening #145
High School only

Nov. 21 - 23

Location: Camp Allen

Registration Info

Youth Encounter Spirit

(YES) #114
Middle School only

Nov. 21 -23

Location: Camp Allen

Registration Info

Contact Us
St. David's Episcopal Church
(512) 610-3500
or email Duana