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Medema leads YouthFest

The program is sponsored by the UCC’s Eden Theological Seminary and is designed to start a discussion with youth throughout the UCC.

"YouthFest is not about recruiting pastors or telling high school students what they ‘ought’ to be doing," said Doni Driemeier, director of youth programs at Eden. "It’s designed to help them begin the life-long process of asking questions, listening for answers, and becoming the person God created them to be."

During the weekend, participants will explore what it means to be called by God, think about the ways God calls us, and develop skills to listen and react to God’s call in their own lives. The theme will be developed through an extraordinary combination of music, drama, computer technology and Bible study.

• Internationally-known musician Ken Medema will lead the music.
• A company of professional actors will perform.
• An unusual approach to Bible study uses music young people listen to.
• Each participant will design a web page that helps them see how their lives connect to those around them.
• Wise people will be on hand to listen and discuss issues facing young people and to explain their own sense of call.

YouthFest is open to students in grades 9-12. An information packet and video recorded at the first YouthFest are available from the Conference, Associations and at each local church.

YouthFest is a summer camp-type activity. Youth are invited to come individually; Eden Seminary and the Ohio Conference will provide supervision and leadership.

The registration fee of about $70 covers room and board. All other program costs are paid by Eden Seminary. Registration materials will be available early in 2001.