Message from our Pastor

What a delight it was to accompany 10 members of our Youth Group (and three other adults) to Youth 2011 at Purdue University in Indiana.  I was getting a little worried the day before our departure since my flight from Detroit to Syracuse was cancelled (I was coming back from moving my daughter Martha out to Arizona).  Fortunately I was able to get a late flight and arrived back in Clinton at 4:30 a.m. in plenty of time for our 7 a.m. departure!  After an overnight stay in Ohio, we arrived at Purdue to check in and begin what was to be a fantastic four days with over 3500 United Methodist youth and adult leaders.  This was one of two events scheduled, the second two weeks later in Sacramento, CA.  The theme for Youth 2011 was “More Than,” such as this was more than worship, or more than a concert, or more than a gathering.  It was a time to explore and deepen one’s faith, to expand one’s horizons and renew one’s commitment to serving Christ.

 Our youth fully participated in the activities which began early in the morning and went to around midnight.  The days were packed full with small group LAB (one of which was led by Ally), Bible study, two workshops, worship, evening activities and group time.  Meals were at the dorm which was seven tenths of a mile away from the meeting halls but we didn’t complain too much because we were in one of the few air-conditioned dorms!   During the brief breaks we had the opportunity to wander through the exhibit halls and find out more about various ministries that were available for youth.  Some even stopped by the college displays to learn more about some United Methodist Schools as well as loans and scholarships. 

 We met many people from around the country but were surprised that we were the only church represented from the New York Conference.  We were also the only people from Connecticut.   But one thing we learned was that we were not alone!  We joined with thousands of other Christians in celebrating our call to discipleship as youth in the United Methodist Church.  We were not the smallest or the largest group there but it did not matter, we felt that we belonged to one big fellowship in Christ.

 Watching the group interact with one another and with other participants reminded me of just how special this group is.  They are accepting of each other, open to new people, caring, playful, thoughtful, spiritual and a real joy to be around.  We will miss those who are going off to college but are looking forward to the contributions of the newest members.  I am so grateful for the leadership of Jill and Carolyn Hale who made this all happen.   Their continued commitment to providing a program and a space for our youth in our congregation makes a huge difference.

 I hope we will have an opportunity to share personal reflections and some pictures from Youth 2011 with the congregation soon.  I know you will enjoy it!

 Shalom,Craig