Youth Christian Formation
Theresa Russell • February 3, 2023
East Tennessee Youth
St. James Episcopal Church partners with The Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee to create a well rounded youth christian formation program. Here are a few announcements from Caroline Wood, Missioner for Youth and Young Adults, Episcopal Diocese of East Tennessee. cwood@dioet.org 865-966-2110 Ext. 119
Happening Lay Rector applications will open at Happening #83, March 24 - 26. If you'd like more details on this process, please don't hesitate to reach out.
2023 East TN Youth Dates:
- Happening #83--March 24-26 at Grace Point, register, read more here
- New Beginnings #6--April 14-16 at Grace Point, read more here
- Vocare #3--April 28-30 at Grace Point, read more here
- Trail of Tears Pilgrimage--June 5-9 for High School students, read more here
2023 Grace Point Camp Dates (read more here)
- Senior Celebration--May 12-13 at Grace Point
- Family Camp--May 26-29 at Grace Point
- Junior Camp--June 1-6 for Grades 4 to 6, at Grace Point
- Intermediate Camp--June 9-14 for Grades 7 to 9, at Grace Point
- Adult Camp--June 22-25 for ages 21+, at Grace Point
- Junior Summer Session--June 28-July 3 for Grades 4 to 6, at Grace Point
- Intermediate Summer Session--July 6-11 for Grades 7 to 9, at Grace Point
- Youth Summer Session--July 16-21 for 10 grade to just graduated, at Grace Point
Lent is a season when we are particularly called to consider our sins and to amend our ways. Many of the messages we hear in our culture tend to focus on the sins of an individual. The witness of scripture places as much emphasis on corporate sins. In the story of Jonah, the whole city is called to repent. Prophets like Amos deliver the call for all those in power to stop mistreating the poor. In Nehemiah 5, we hear the story of Nehemiah gathering a great assembly to call for the leaders to stop the unfair lending practices harming their community. As faithful people, we are called to consider the ways that our life together touches the lives of others.
I am writing this on the Feast of St. Joseph (March 19). This character in God's salvation story has an intriguing supporting role. He chooses to protect Mary and the expectant child despite the possible scandal. Joseph finds himself fleeing for Egypt to protect the newborn Jesus. We don't otherwise hear much from or about Joseph in scripture. He is a faithful person who sought to follow God in tough situations.
Get ready to jingle all the way to the "Smoky Mountain Ring" - a sensational showcase of talent and community spirit! Join us on Saturday, April 5 @ 4:30 pm at Grace Lutheran Church, (9076 Middlebrook Pike), where The Bells of St. James will be ringing in harmony with several other talented handbell choirs under the expert guidance of clinician Brenda Austin. This vibrant concert is more than just a musical event; it's a heartwarming celebration of connection, inclusivity, and the joy of coming together as a community. We can't wait to see you there!
Friends and Neighbors, We enter the season of Lent. Lent can seem very focused on the individual. For sure, we are called to consider our sinfulness and mortality. We do not stay there, but turn our hearts to God's forgiveness and grace.
Get ready to flip for joy because Shrove Tuesday is THIS TUESDAY (Mar 4)! Join us in the Parish Hall at 6 pm to 8 pm for a delightful evening filled with fluffy buttermilk pancakes and a smorgasbord of toppings that'll make your taste buds dance! Were even bringing out some classic, time-honored shrove pancake recipes that are sure to warm your heart. But wait, theres more! Come hungry and bring your family and friends for a night of fun, laughter, and the chance to snag some awesome door prizes! Trust us, you won't want to miss out on this delicious community gathering. Tickets are flying fast, so grab yours now for just $5 (adults) and $2 (children). And hey, if you're feeling the call to help out, we'd love to have you volunteer! Arrive at 5 pm to help with setup and prep so we can make this event a huge success together! RSVP at THIS LINK today! Remember, this isn't just about pancakes; it's about coming together as a community, sharing joy, and supporting our outreach initiatives.
Friends and Neighbors, I don't want to get too far ahead, but Lent is approaching. The tradition of the Church calls for a time of fasting and repentance. That often involves giving something up or taking something on. I recommend that folks keep it simple and be kind to themselves. We aren't doing these things to earn God's favor. We take up these practices to turn our hearts towards God. This turning of our hearts could be called "devotion".
Friends and Neighbors, We live in a world that bombards us with information. Here I am adding to the mix of ideas and thoughts coming your way. I am reminded of how Jesus often took time to go away to pray. Even without cell phones and constant news, Jesus and those around him were well aware of their world's contentious politics and problems. Jesus spoke to those problems and acted to meet the needs of people. He also empowered his followers to do the same things he did. Jesus took time to pray, teach, and be with folks at meals. Connecting with God and our community nurtures and feed us in the midst of all the demands on our attention.