3rd–5th Grade B.Y.G Retreat Recap

This past weekend, our 3rd–5th grade youth had the opportunity to travel to Camp Agape’ for a BYG (Building Youth Groups) Retreat from Friday through Sunday. They joined alongside youth from four other congregations for a meaningful and fun-filled weekend centered on service learning.

Throughout the retreat, participants explored the story of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples, reflecting on how serving others is an essential part of our faith. They then put those lessons into action during Camp Agape’s Spring Workday, engaging in a variety of service projects around camp. From simple acts like offering compliments and writing thank-you cards, to decorating spaces, weeding, and gathering firewood for campfires, our youth embraced many opportunities to serve, and even when we were tired, we talked about how serving others sometimes means that we end up becoming a bit uncomfortable ourselves. They even created their own skits and prayers, which were shared during the closing worship service. It was inspiring to see them return home with hearts full and a renewed spirit of service.

Of course, the weekend also included plenty of classic camp fun—crafts, games, delicious meals, worship, campfires with s’mores, and hikes through the beautiful woods of Camp Agape’.

We are incredibly grateful to the congregation of St. Philip for making this experience possible. Your generous support of our ministries allows opportunities like this to happen, and we thank you for investing in the faith and growth of our young people.