It is often difficult to articulate to Sessions or Finance committees, exactly why it is important to encourage youth and youth leaders to attend conferences such as Canada Youth 2012. We hope the following information will help make those presentations easier.

Why should our congregation encourage young people and leaders to attend Canada Youth 2012?

• Time away from the daily routine provides opportunities to encounter God in dynamic and focused ways.
• Concentrated time together helps build and enhance relationships with peers and adult leaders.
• Expanded view of the church-at-large affirms the faith journey of youth.
• Unique experiences create enthusiasm, showcase new ideas, generate excitement for service back home, and strengthen the bond of Christian love and fellowship.
• Youth events can be life changing as young people grow in their relationship with Christ.
• Adult leaders are equipped and encouraged in their ministry with youth.
• Local youth ministry networks are established and nurtured as youth and adults from common regions get to know each other.
• Congregations become involved in youth ministry through their support of youth participation in gatherings.
• Service projects leave the touch of Christ’s love on the gathering city and model ways for youth to get involved in service projects back home.
• Youth return home strengthened in their faith and equipped to face daily life challenges.

How can we integrate Canada Youth 2012 into the life and ministry of our congregation?
• Work with youth to fundraise and provide updates to the entire congregation.
• Invite someone who attended a previous Canada Youth event, a local member of the planning team, or regional youth ministry staff to speak to your congregation.
• Regularly pray for the CY2012 planning team and those planning to attend the event.
• Commission participants prior to their departure for CY2012.
• Consider sending a small care package with youth to remind them of your prayers when they are away.
• Set aside time during worship on July 8, 2012, to pray for the event

• Welcome the participants home
o ask them to share their experience in a worship service or evening presentation
o ask to see their pictures and mementos or have them set up a display during the coffee hour
o ask them to write a short reflection for the church bulletin or newsletter
o find out how their faith has been strengthened and their life changed.