Offering at AC 2015 to support 240 youth
The Dakotas Conference will send 240 youth to Youth 2015. Youth 2015 is the national gathering for United Methodist youth groups and their leaders. It happens every 4 years. Churches and individuals will have the opportunity to contribute to the 240 who are committed to attend this life changing experience. A special offering will be collected at the 22nd Session of the Dakotas Annual Conference in Fargo, North Dakota.
What is YOUTH 2015?
YOUTH 2015 is the national, quadrennial gathering for United Methodist youth groups and their leaders. Go On! is the theme for this year’s event being held June 24-28, 2015 in Orlando, FL. 240 youth and adults from across the Dakotas will gather with thousands of youth from across the country to hear incredible speakers and major Christian artists, participate in small and large group Bible studies and devotional times and attend great workshops all rooted in our Wesleyan faith. Youth will be challenged to “Go On” when they return home, to put their faith into action, leading and living in ways that make a difference in their lives and the lives of their neighbors. Prior to Youth 2015 the participants will also spend several days involved in mission work around the Orlando area through Group Ministries “Week of Hope.” Of course no trip to Florida would be complete without a few hours at the Ocean one evening and a trip to Universal Studios on Sunday before flying home on June 29.
In the past the largest number of Dakotans attending any national youth event was 93 in 2003. 75 attended Youth 2011. When the planning for this trip began over a year ago we based the budget on 85 participants but were praying for 100. God is at work in a big way in the Dakotas! 240 youth and adults are registered for this trip.
Why the special offering?
A special offering will be collected at the 22nd Session of the Dakotas Annual Conference in Fargo, North Dakota at the Celebration of Life in Ministry Service Friday, June 5, 2015 at 7 p.m. The offering will help to support the 240 who are committed to attend this life changing experience.
The costs to attend Youth 2015 are shared by the youth and their families, the Dakotas Conference and the local church. Air fare has increased since we began planning this trip and the increase from 100 to 240 participants changes the entire budget and logistics, too. Thank you for your prayerful consideration of your offering at the Celebration of Life in Ministry Service at Annual Conference as we continue to prepare young leaders and disciples for the United Methodist Church of the Dakotas Conference through this life changing opportunity.
Resources for local churches
Here are a couple of resources for local churches to encourage giving to Youth 2015:
