Youth Ministry
The youth ministry programming of MC Sask has two primary goals:
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Providing opportunities for youth to spend time together in a safe space, and
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Helping youth strengthen their relationships with their Creator, Redeemer, and Sustainer.
Saskatchewan Mennonite Youth Organization (SMYO)
Youth programming, led by youth!
Saskatchewan Mennonite Youth Organization (SMYO) is an important part of Mennonite Church Saskatchewan (MC Sask). SMYO includes any youth (gr. 6-12) who are part of an MC Sask congregation, school, or youth group.
The purpose of SMYO is to bring together youth from across the province for fellowship, a feeling of unity, and spiritual growth. Along with monthly Mega Menno events, there are two SMYO retreats each year, one for Jr. High and one for Sr. High. The goal of these events is to foster feelings of identity & unity, invite youth to grow in their faith and relationship with Jesus Christ, and encourage them to follow God in all areas of their lives.
SMYO receives oversight from Kirsten Hamm-Epp, MC Sask Area Church Minister, and most importantly, from the SMYO Youth Committee.
This group of youth in grades 10-12 provides input regarding programming, helps run retreats, offers worship services at MC Sask congregations, and is the representative voice of Mennonite youth in Saskatchewan.
2017-18 Committee: Ada Krahn (co-chair), Amy Wiens (co-chair), Katherine Penner, Sydney Martens, Rachel Neufeld, Reed Fitzgerald, Madison Harms, Kate Hanson, Teah Lennea, and Nathan Bartel.
Events
Jr. High Retreat, May 25-27 - Youth Farm Bible Camp
Answering the Call, with speaker Craig Friesen
Come hang out at camp, and enjoy a weekend of fun, fellowship, and of course, food!
In our sessions Craig will lead the youth in creating a guiding circle, an exercise designed to help youth name their values and gifts and use that knowledge to help them figure out the calling(s) they would like to pursue, both in their communities and beyond. And outside the sessions, we've got a bunch of activities you won't want to miss: jumping pillow, archery, ropes, pedal karts, a bonfire, and the always-fantastic Saturday night coffeehouse!
Open to youth in grades 6-9, cost: $140/youth, $120/sponsors (financial aid available). Registration received after the May 21st deadline will be $150. A reminder that each community sending youth is expected to provide at least one sponsor. If you have difficulty finding a sponsor or connecting with a church, please contact Kirsten ASAP. This is not meant to be restrictive; however, sponsors are a vital part of the retreat.
2018 Jr. High Registration Letter
Contact Kirsten Hamm-Epp, Area Church Youth Minister, for more information: youthminster@mcsask.ca, 306-249-4844
Upcoming Mega Menno Events:
Kid's Corner at the MCC SK Relief Sale, June 8-9 - providing childcare and activities.
- We are looking for groups of 4-6 (min. 1 adult) to take shifts helping run the Kid's Corner: Friday evening, Saturday morning, Saturday mid-day, and Saturday afternoon. This is a great way for youth to contribute to the work of MCC. If you are able to come, but only have one or two people, please let Kirsten know (youthminster@mcsask.ca, 306-249-4844), and we will get you plugged in with another group.
Mega Menno Events are planned and hosted by various MC Sask congregations, pooling resources and personnel to help create more opportunities for youth to come together. All Mega Menno events are $2/person, and are open to youth in grades 6-12, and their friends! Sponsors do not need to be present throughout the event, unless otherwise stated.
Full 2017-18 Events Calendar
Coffee Fundraiser
Through Level Ground Trading Co., funds are raised each year to help youth attend the two SMYO retreats, for large assemblies and trips, and scholarships. To date over $5,000 has been raised, and we are very grateful for this support! Orders are welcome on an individual or congregational/corporate level. View product list and pricing below, contact the MC Sask office, mcsask@mcsask.ca 306-249-4844, to place an order or find out more.
SMYO Level Ground Order Form
To pay for your coffee order via PayPal click on the button below. (note adding to cart is not ordering again, just putting what you have already ordered into the cart to pay for it)
The youth ministry programs of MC Sask are accountable to the Pastoral Leadership Commission (PLC), and any questions or concerns should be directed to PLC Chair Garth Ewert Fisher, or MC Sask Moderator Terry Stefaniuk. Please contact the office for their information.
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