On Sunday, August 30, 6 youth and 1 young adult converged on Bear Creek Camp for the first ever “Gifted Gathering.” Nominated by their pastors, youth leaders, and parents these young people possess gifts for leadership; and they exhibit spark, passion, and depth.

The participants asked one another questions and listened to answers. From that exercise, Aubrey Naugle of St. John, Mohnton discovered that “I never really linked ‘taking initiative in a conversation’ to leadership, but it is. I’m more of a leader than I thought I was.” Mitchell Brown, also from St. John’s, commented, “The gathering challenged me in interacting with others.”

Later everyone moved on to the highlight of the day—the high ropes course.  They challenged themselves to go beyond what felt comfortable and trusted the ropes would hold them. Hannah Knox, Hope, Reading, describes her time on the course: “I took the challenge by choice and did far more than I had hoped to accomplish.” Hannah set an initial goal of one obstacle, and she completed three.

A lively discussion on spiritual gifts and on how the participants could use them in the Body of Christ capped off the afternoon.

More important than the programming itself were the rides up and back from Bear Creek coupled with the natural flow of conversation. “I can’t wait for next year! And to tell my youth group,” said Harmony Gubich from St. Peter’s, Bethlehem.

Dan Scharnhorst, Bear Creek camp director and Leadership Development Team member adds, “It was a wonderful event that Bear Creek Camp was proud to host! We look forward to increased partnering with the synod in the future.”

Your mission support dollars made this event happen on two fronts—the synod’s Leadership Development Team and Bear Creek Camp. Thank you for your commitment to identify and foster leadership gifts in our youth and young adults! Download a bulletin insert to use for your congregation.