MyMontreat

CCM12 - Twitter Prayers of People

2011-12-31T23:05:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year Everyone!

The 2012 College Conference at Montreat is almost here,

and we can’t wait to spend some time Seeking Stars with each one of you!

Don’t forget to follow us on twitter:

@ccmontreat

And use the Official 2012 hashtag:

#ccm12

Also – we want YOU to participate in our Prayers of the People during Worship.

There will be a “Prayer Manger” located in the Lobby of Anderson Auditorium throughout the conference

where you can submit prayer requests.

Submit them virtually as you travel to the Conference for the Opening Worship,

or any other time throughout the conference:

Submit them via twitter using the hashtag: #prayermanger

Submit them via comments on facebook:

http://www.facebook.com/collegeconference

We hope you have a safe trip and look forward to seeing you all soon!

Peace,

Planning Team

J. Herbert Nelson on the Importance of Campus Ministry

2011-11-25T09:11:00.000-05:00

Our Preacher for the 2012 College Conference @ Montreat // “Seeking Stars”

Talks about the struggles experienced by college students and the importance of Campus Ministry. Come hear more about the words he has to share with us all January 2-5, 2012!

PCUSA Washington Office Director on the Importance of Campus Ministry

J. Herbert Nelson, II, the Director of the Presbyterian Church USA's Office on Public Witness, Compassion, Peace and Justice Ministry, speaks about the importance of campus ministry to young people who will be tomorrow's leaders.

Advent Seeking

2011-11-17T11:08:00.001-05:00

Photo from Flickr user dottorpeni

As November begins, I sense the onset of Advent. As a pastor in a church, it is natural for me to sense this, even though the leaves are just now beginning to change into glorious shades of color in eastern North Carolina. In fact, as I compose this post, my mind is also thinking forward to Epiphany and the new revelations it will bring. As Christians we celebrate Epiphany on January 6 when we rejoice at the coming of the Magi, or as some know them, the Wise Men. Over two thousand years ago these wise people from the east followed a star and celebrated Epiphany for the first time with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.

At the college conference this year, we will tap into that ancient celebration. Through elements of our worship, we too will seek and we too will celebrate. We will seek the presence of Christ in our lives. We will seek ways to celebrate the Christ Child in our own contexts, all year long. We will celebrate the fact that we have a God who says, “Arise, shine, for your light has come” and “Then you shall see and be radiant”. Together we will ponder and question the meaning of these ancient prophecies in our lives.

As November continues, I offer prayers for you, my sisters and brothers in the faith, for the waiting of Advent is upon us. And before we know it, it will be time for a celebration, for the Christ Child is in our midst. Soon we will gather in the mountains in the cold of winter to join in the ancient art of seeking and celebrating this Christ Child as we ponder the meaning of a star in the sky and the joyful prophecies of Isaiah.

Mary Kathleen Duncan
College Conference Worship Enabler

Steve Lindsley - Music Leader // 2012 College Conference

2011-11-01T14:12:00.000-04:00

Steve Lindsley

Hey folks! My name is Steve Lindsley, and I'm stoked about leading music for the 2012 College Conference at Montreat!I'm a pastor/head of staff at First Presbyterian Church in Mount Airy, NC, where I've served for nine years. I'm also a gigging musician and singer/songwriter who loves helping people make beautiful music together!

I've been coming to Montreat since I was in high school, and music has always been a special part of the whole experience for me. That's a big part of why I'm looking forward to returning to Anderson Auditorium with you all this January. My hope is that you'll do more than simply join me in singing some songs, but that you'll experience them anew in a way unique to our particular context - the beautiful space around us, the keynoters and preachers we'll listen to, the fellowship and conversations with friends, and the God who brings us all together. Expect some of the "old staples," but don't be surprised if we belt out a Mumford & Sons or Avett Brothers tune too!

Have a great fall and we'll see you up on the mountain in the new year, seeking stars together!

FACEBOOK // TWITTER // MUSIC // BLOG

2012 College Conference @ Montreat // Leadership

2011-09-27T08:54:00.000-04:00

“Seeking Stars”

2012 College Conference @ Montreat // Leadership

Gabe Lyons, Keynoter – Gabe Lyons is the author of The Next Christians: The Good News About the End of Christian America and the founder of Q—a learning community that mobilizes Christians to advance the common good in society. Additionally, he is the co-author of UnChristian: What a New Generation Really Thinks About Christianity and Why It Matters, a bestselling book based on original research that revealed the pervasiveness of pop culture’s negative perceptions of Christians.

Sara Miles, Keynoter – Sara Miles is the author of Take This Bread: A Radical Conversion and Jesus Freak: Feeding Healing Raising the Dead. She is the Director of Ministry at St. Gregory of Nyssa Episcopal Church in San Francisco, and the founder and director of The Food Pantry.

J. Herbert Nelson, Preacher – J. Herbert Nelson II is currently the Director of the PC(USA) Office of Public Witness in Washington, D.C. He is a third generation Presbyterian Pastor, who, before coming to Washington, served as Founder/Pastor of Liberation Community Presbyterian Church (LCC) in Memphis, Tennessee. J. Herbert, as he is commonly known, serves as preacher, workshop leader, consultant and writer. His writings have appeared in Presbyterians Today and The Outlook. J. Herbert spends his spare time listening to jazz; reading, working out and watching his favorite television program — The Good Wife.

Steve Lindsley, Music Leader – When he’s not playing music or playing with his kids, Steve Lindsley is Pastor/Head of Staff at First Presbyterian Church in Mount Airy, NC, where he has served since 2003. Having received his doctorate in 2006, Steve also teaches Old and New Testament at the local community college. Music takes on many forms for Steve. As a singer/songwriter he’s released four CDs, the most recent being Let Go as an entirely free download. He also plays in a Jack Johnson cover band, Mediocre Bad Guys, that’s currently working on their first original album. Steve is no stranger to the conference/presbytery scene, having led music for numerous retreats and conferences over the past twenty years.

Mary Kathleen Duncan, Worship Enabler – Mary Kathleen serves as the Associate Pastor for Congregational Life at First Presbyterian Church in Rocky Mount, NC. Mary Kathleen loved attending the college conference as a student and is excited to be back this year as part of the leadership team. In her spare time she loves to explore God’s creation far and near, attempt cool knitting projects, and try out Southern Living recipes.

'Searching for the Signal' Week 6 Photos

2011-08-11T14:45:00.002-04:00

Week six, a bittersweet ending to an amazing summer of 'Searching for the Signal!' We're sad to see everyone go, but hope and pray that you've left inspired and equipped for your lives away from Montreat. Check out all 600+ photos from last week in a gallery on Montreat.org (here), Flickr set coming soon! Special thanks to Mike Erdelyi, our conference photographer!

Resources for weeks 5 and 6 are online!

'Searching for the Signal' Week 5 Photos

2011-08-04T15:11:00.002-04:00

Check out all 616 photos from last week in Montreat's Week 5 Flickr set! Special thanks to Mike Erdelyi, our conference photographer!

Resources for weeks 5 and 6 will be online shortly, check the Youth Conference Resource page next week!

'Searching for the Signal' Week 4 Photos

2011-07-29T14:07:00.000-04:00

Huge thanks to everyone who made week 4 of youth conferences come together! Your participation and passion make every conference unique and special. We've loved hosting 'Searching for the Signal'!

Enjoy all 504 (!!!) photos from last week in Montreat's Week 4 Flickr set! Special thanks to Rachel Morris, who took all of these pictures.

Also be sure to check out the conference resource page on Montreat.org for videos, liturgy, and music used throughout the week.

'Searching for the Signal' Week 3 Photos

2011-07-22T14:28:00.002-04:00

After a few weeks hiatus, Youth Conferences were back last week with another week of 1,000+ youth and their leaders 'Searching for the Signal' in Montreat!

View all the photos taken during week 3 in this Flickr set! Many thanks to our conference photographer, Rachel Harrod!

Work Crew Applications for CC@Montreat

2011-07-01T21:18:00.000-04:00

New for 2012: WORK CREW!!!

The College Conference Work Crew offers an excellent opportunity for a small group of College students to:
- develop leadership skills,
- assist staff and leadership for a large event,
- and to see the inside workings of the College Conference.

Work Crew will assist in registration, keynote, recreation, etc— basically wherever is needed.

Please see the application for more details.
Download and complete the 2012 College Conference Work Crew Application
and email to evelync[at]montreat.org or mail to Evelyn Coleman,
Montreat Conference Center, PO Box 969, Montreat, NC 28757.

Applications are due by September 15, 2011.

Announcing Leadership for the 2012 College Conference!

2011-07-01T09:16:00.000-04:00

We’re thrilled to announce our leadership for the 2012 Seeking Stars ~ College Conference at Montreat! You’re in for a treat as we gather together to hear from:

Gabe Lyons – keynote – co-author Unchristian
Sara Miles – keynote – author – Take this Bread
J Herbert Nelson – preacher – PCUSA Washington, DC office
Mary Kathleen Duncan – worship enabler – recent CTS graduate
Steve Lindsley – music leader – pastor from Mt. Airy, NC

Plan to join us Jan 2-5, 2012! Registration opens October 1st at www.montreat.org

'Searching for the Signal' Week 2 Photos

2011-06-23T09:14:00.001-04:00

1,300 young people and their leaders attended the second week of 'Searching for the Signal,' bringing lots of energy and enthusiasm to Montreat in their singing, worshiping, and recreating.

View all the photos taken during week 2 in this Flickr set! Many thanks to our conference photographer, Thomas Guthrie, for being with us for two weeks and capturing the conference through his lens!

'Searching for the Signal' Week 1 Photos

2011-06-14T13:41:00.001-04:00

It's summertime, and that means youth conferences at Montreat are back! This year's first week of "Searching for the Signal" saw over six hundred young people singing, worshiping, and recreating.

View all the photos taken during week 1 in this Flickr set! Many thanks to our conference photographer, Thomas Guthrie, for capturing these shots!

Searching for the Signal - Hearing from the planning teams

2011-04-20T11:08:00.002-04:00

AJ and Clarisse are members of the planning team for "Searching for the Signal," the 2011 Youth Conferences at Montreat. At a recent meeting, they sat down to discuss what folks can look forward to this summer in Montreat!

Middle School Conference: Meet the Directors!

2011-04-15T11:15:00.001-04:00

Meet Clay and Joan, directors of the 2011 Montreat Middle School Conference at Presbyterian College. They share their excitement about the upcoming event and give a sneak preview of what middle schoolers expect to learn and bring home into their lives.

Contribute to the Wondering Wanderers Video

2011-01-21T10:42:00.002-05:00

Dear Wandering Wonderers,

We here at Montreat like to wrap up the college conference by creating a video of events and memories of the week (watch 2009 and 2010). This typically involves some nice music, tidbits from keynote and worship services, and footage of fun happenings. This year, we wanted to switch it up a bit. We want you to provide the memories. We know you've got 'em, too, since we saw you taking pictures of the services, performances, and your friends all week.

So here's the deal: We'd like to crowdsource this video. We'll take your favorite photos from Wondering Wanderers and compile them into a fast paced photo show of the conference, through your eyes (or lens).

To participate:

Pick out a few pictures that exemplify the conference to you. They could be of nature, a particular keynote or event, communion, relationships you made or strengthened, barn dancing, late-night card games in the Assembly Inn, the spirituality center, a group picture... basically, anything that is an important memory of the conference.
Submit them to Montreat. Attach the photos and send them to joshr@montreat.org with the subject "2011 CC Pics" so that my gmail filter will sort them correctly. Please include your name and the school you attend so we can thank you properly.
Watch the video before your friends. We'll send you an email to preview the video before anyone else (no spam, we promise!).

Thanks! No seriously, thanks!

- Montreat Conference Center Staff

College Conference: Workshops!

2010-12-17T08:58:00.001-05:00

This post is cross-posted from the Planning Team Blog, found here.

Announcing the 2011 College Conference at Montreat Workshop Offerings!

Workshops are subject to change between now and the conference. Locations will be given out at registration. All workshops begin at 2:00 p.m. on Jan. 3 and Jan. 4. Click through to see the workshop list!

Monday Only

A Day in the Life
This workshop will help us to understand something of the daily life of typical Haitians—children, women, and men. Hear stories about life in Haiti before and after the earthquake, about the struggles and challenges, and about the pride and the hope of Haitians. There will be an opportunity for questions and conversation. Led by members of the Resurrection Dance Theatre, Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Don't Let Them Look Down on You Because You're Young
Being a young adult is hard. Young adults struggle to be taken seriously for a variety of reasons. Based on Paul's letters to Timothy, how can young adults overcome skepticism and continue to change the world? Led by Landon Whitsett, Vice Moderator of the 219th General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) and pastor from Liberty, MO

Storytellers Unplugged
As wondering wanderers, we certainly find ourselves in different places at different times. Some are good. Some are bad. Poor guidance and decision-making can land us in rough spots and challenging situations. When we don’t allow God in the mix things can go awry quickly. In this workshop, music leader Beth Williams will share some of her “wonderings and wanderings,” including the stories behind her songs as well as the lessons learned from the life experiences that accompany them. Led by Beth Williams, conference music leader and singer/songwriter from Charlotte, NC

Tuesday Only

Haitian Dance Basics
The sounds of the Haitian drum and the intricate movements of Haitian dance are tightly woven into the culture of Haiti and help tell part of the story. Beginning with very simple movements, Haitian dance teachers will help you build from basic to more intricate movements and have you dancing before the workshop is over. No experience is necessary and a good workout is guaranteed! Led by members of the Resurrection Dance Theatre, Port-au-Prince, Haiti

So You Want To Be A Music Leader!
This workshop is for anyone who has a desire to be a music leader in their group or at their church and feels that they need a little guidance before they jump in feet first. Beth Williams will chat with participants on what faithful music leadership looks like. She will give tips on how to pick music for different settings and how to be intentional and inclusive. Participants will engage in conversation concerning different styles of music as well as how to program music to produce a good “set.” There will also be a portion of this workshop dedicated to “come and bring your guitar and song.” We will share songs and give pointers on when and where those songs might work. Song sharing could be limited due to group size. Led by Beth Williams, conference music leader and singer/songwriter from Charlotte, NC

Monday and Tuesday

Americorps:
Wandering in ServiceCome and learn about various Americorps programs for “wanderers” as they relate to post-college plans. Americorps State, National, VISTA, and NCCC programs and their benefits and possibilities will be presented. Led by Drew Bonner, member of the Americorps National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC) from Vicksburg, MS

Collegiate Ministry Roundtable
This is an opportunity for collegiate ministry practitioners and professionals to reflect on current research and trends in the theology and praxis of campus ministry while sharing best practices and building collegiality. Led by Jerry Beavers, Communications Director, Presbyterian Association for Collegiate and Higher Education Ministries from Asheville, NC

Encountering God in the Wonders of Creation
Nature and adventures in the great outdoors offer a wild freedom that intrigues us and can stir deep emotions within us. Beneath the paths of snow-capped peaks and rolling hills, God’s kingdom becomes big enough to handle our probing questions and doubt. In this workshop, we will discuss the power of the wilderness to connect with God and how enjoying creation can lead us to a richer relationship with the Creator that extends to the rest of the world. Led by Rachel Whitten, Recruiting Coordinator for A Christian Ministry in the National Parks (ACMNP) from Denver, CO

Everything Must Change
Join our keynote speaker for a discussion about how your faith equips you to engage with global crises. The aim here is to gain a fresh and provocative vision of Jesus and his teachings so that his core message can infuse us with purpose and passion to address the economic, environmental, military, political, and social dysfunctions that have overtaken our world. Led by Brian McLaren, conference speaker, author, and pastor from Spencerville, MD

Let Your Life Speak (Spiritually Focused Discernment)
How do you figure our what to do with your life? Is it just one thing? What does it mean to really live out the double love commandment to love God and neighbor? This workshop will provide means for discerning the myriad ways you can respond to God’s call. Led by Ellie Johns, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, Warren, PA

Pottery for the Soul
Come make beautiful bowls on the wheel, and at the handbuilding table! These bowls will be used at our “Empty Bowls” dinner next summer to raise money to fight hunger here and in Haiti. Led by Ann Jones, Director of Arts Ministry at Montreat Conference Center and pastor from Greenville, MS

Praying it Forward (Vocationally Focused Discernment)
College involves thinking about your future vocation/job. So how do you listen to God’s direction and recognize and develop your gifts? This workshop will help you look at various ways to pray/talk and listen to God through this journey. It will also look at a few tools and resources to help guide you in this journey as you contemplate your future. Led by Gail Monsma, Associate Pastor of Second Presbyterian Church, Richmond, VA

Responding with Generosity
Often times when controversial things come up we divide into camps. This workshop will give communication and education tools that will allow us to work together, in spite of differing points of view. Led by Frank Colladay, Retired Campus Minister at North Georgia College & State University, Dahlonega, GA

Restorative Yoga
"Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength." (Mark 12:30). This relaxing yoga class will teach basic breathing techniques along with yoga postures which will enhance your mental, physical, and spiritual health! Christ centered prayer and meditation throughout the class creates a Christian emphasis within this Eastern practice. Anyone of any ability or experience will enjoy participating and will gain useful tools for relieving stress and connecting to the Divine. A brief introduction discussing the practice of yoga in the context of the Christian faith will precede our class. Led by Martha Nelson, certified yoga therapist and potter-in-residence at Montreat Conference Center

Spirituality Center Orientation
Are you interested in the Spirituality Center and the practices there, but need a little guidance? Come to this orientation and learn about the prayer labyrinth, praying in color, praying with sand, lectio divina, centering prayer, and other forms of prayer. Led by Mitch Roper, Campus Ministry Intern at the Presbyterian Student Center at UGA, Athens, GA

Time Out Is Time In: Montreat ‘11 Pilgrimage
Participants will wonder and wander on a pedestrian pilgrimage to the Montreat Reservoir upstream from Lake Susan (approx. 1 mi. and return). Our destination is a gazebo erected near the Reservoir that incorporates a labyrinth, which we will use. Our purposes include Sabbath keeping, rest and reflection, invigorating exercise, community building, and an experience of a winter afternoon in southern Appalachia. Dress warmly with headwear and be prepared for outdoor exposure. Shoes and socks appropriate for hiking are required. This workshop will last the full 90 minutes or longer. Led by Bruce Chapman, Presbyterian University Minister at Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL

Walking in the Light—The Practice of Pilgrimage
This workshop will explore what it means to travel as a pilgrim in today’s world, look at various Christian pilgrimage sites around the world, and see how the “way of a pilgrim” can inform our daily lives as disciples of Jesus Christ. No travel experience necessary. Led by Peter Hazelrigg, Campus Minister at Presbyterian Campus Ministry of Greensboro, NC

Wondering about Wandering
Would you like to dig deeper into our theme, Wondering Wanderers? Want some in-depth conversation about the scriptures, the sermons, and what you are experiencing in worship? Come hang out with Aimee Wallis Buchanan for informal conversation and even some artwork on the theme. Led by Aimee Wallis Buchanan, conference preacher and Director of Asheville Youth Mission, Asheville, NC

Yes You Can!
This workshop is designed to help young people explore ways to shape the political climate in a globalized society. Led by J. Herbert Nelson, II, Director of the Presbyterian Church (USA) Office of Public Witness, Washington, D.C.

Wondering Wanderers: An Update

2010-12-08T16:00:00.000-05:00

Note: This article is cross-posted from the Montreat Blog

We're in the final stretch of 2010, which of course means Advent and Christmas, as well as a new year just around the corner. And what better way to begin 2011 than by welcoming hundreds of college students to Montreat? The 2011 College Conference (January 2-5) will be an exciting four day event exploring "where we've been, where we're headed, and who we meet on this awe-filled journey called discipleship."

While all of the Conference Center lodging is full, we're still taking commuter registrations! That means you or your group can rent one of the many houses in Montreat and come to the conference for the commuter rate of $133. If you're looking for somewhere to stay, we've compiled some helpful information on Montreat.org.

Want to know more about day-to-day activities and events at College Conference? The planning team has set up a conference blog that you should check out. They've got a post from Landon Whitsitt, the Vice Moderator of the 219th General Assembly, a post about a group coming all the way from California, and a call for participants in "Montreat's Got Talent." Also be sure to check out the recently released tentative schedule below!

Tentative Schedule for College Conference 2011

Sunday, January 2
3:00-7:00 pm Registration
7:30 pm Opening Worship
After Worship—Evening Recreation

Monday, January 3
9:00 am Morning Devotion/Keynote: Resurrection Dance Theater
10:15 am Discussion Group
11:30 am Question and Response: Resurrection Dance Theater
2:00 pm Workshops
3:30- 5:30 pm Exhibit Booths Open and Staffed
7:30 Worship
After worship—Resurrection Dance Theater performance

Tuesday, January 4
9:00 am Morning Devotion/Keynote: Brian McLaren
10:00 am Discussion Group
11:30 am Question and Response: Brian McLaren
2:00 pm Workshops
3:30- 5:30 pm Exhibit Booths Open and Staffed
4:30 pm Brian McLaren Booksigning
7:30 Worship
After worship – Montreat’s Got Talent!

Wednesday, January 5
9:30 am Closing Worship with Communion

We're looking forward to starting 2011 off right with the College Conference!

2010-09-27T10:42:00.000-04:00

Just wanted to let you all know that...well, you don't have any excuses for NOT coming to the 2011 College Conference at Montreat.

I know some of you think you do - but...if you REALLY sit down and think about it. You don't. No excuses. Nope. Not one. Sorry. Nice try. But it's not going to work this year.

We WANT you to be at College Conference this year. We are going to have some amazing speakers, some really wonderful worship leaders and other musical and dance artists spending time to be with us in (well, let's be honest) cold (but beautiful) Montreat.

If you've been before - well, you know what I'm talking about then. If you haven't been - well, you don't have to take MY word for it. Just ask the hundreds of people who were there last year and who loved the experience!

See you there!

'In These Waters' Week 6 Slideshow and Pictures

2010-08-09T15:39:00.000-04:00

The last week of 'In These Waters' was a wonderful wrap up to a equally wonderful summer of youth conferences. Thanks to everyone who attended, planned, and worked the conferences! Check out all the photos from Week 6 on Flickr! Thanks to Mike Erdelyi, our conference photographer for the last two weeks of conferences, for these outstanding photos!

Bonus: Footage of the Wavin' Flag energizer! (from week 5)

'In These Waters' Week 5 Slideshow and Pictures

2010-08-02T16:02:00.004-04:00

Last week we welcomed our fifth Youth Conference to 'In These Waters'! Lots of energy and a new planning team made for an exciting week. Check out all the photos from Week 5 on Flickr. Thanks to Mike Erdelyi, our conference photographer for the last two weeks of conferences, for these outstanding photos!

Bonus: Footage of the Wavin' Flag energizer!

'In These Waters' Week 4 Slideshow and Pictures

2010-07-30T14:04:00.000-04:00

We have six youth conferences throughout the summer, and while they have the same theme, each conference has it's own personality. Week 4 was awesome! Huge thanks to everyone who made it to Montreat for this week. Make sure you see the photos from week 4 on Flickr. Many thanks to Boyd Lien, our conference photographer.

'In These Waters' Week 3 Slideshow and Pictures

2010-07-21T10:04:00.000-04:00

After a few weeks of other summer conferences, 'In These Waters' was back last week with tons of energy! Some 1200 participants brought their energy and passion to make for a very memorable week here at Montreat! Make sure to check out all of the photos from Week 3 on our Flickr page.

'In These Waters' Week 2 Slideshow and Pictures

2010-06-21T14:57:00.000-04:00

We certainly had a wonderful time here during "In These Waters" week 2. Big big shout out to the Alpha planning team and leadership (pictured below) who devoted two and a half weeks of their free time to put on the conference! Make sure to check out all of the photos at our Flickr page.

'In These Waters' Week 1 Slideshow and Pictures

2010-06-15T12:53:00.002-04:00

Our inaugural week of the 2010 Youth Conference at Montreat was awesome! Thanks to everyone to came out to make an incredible experience for all. Make sure to check out all of the photos at our Flickr page.

'In These Waters' - The 2010 Youth Conferences

2010-04-16T15:28:00.000-04:00

The 2010 Montreat Youth Conferences are just around the corner! We're excited for "In These Waters" and all it's sure to offer conference participants!

The 2010 College Conference at Montreat: God Without Borders

2010-03-05T12:14:00.002-05:00

Huge thanks to everyone that attended the 2010 College Conference at Montreat! It was a huge success and we hope to see everyone at next year's College Conference: Wondering Wanderers!

Cindy Rigby on "God Without Borders"

2009-12-17T09:36:00.002-05:00

Cindy Rigby, one of the keynote leaders for the upcoming College Conference @ Montreat, shares her excitement for the conference. Read more about Cindy and the rest of the conference leadership here.

Who Makes the College Conference T-Shirt Anyways?

2009-12-02T16:21:00.004-05:00

Well, this year that would be me. When I heard that this was one of my tasks as the Promotions/Tech member of the planning team I was to say the least, afraid. The College Conference t-shirts have always been so rad and this year I had to live up to that “cool factor.” I don’t usually tend to think of myself as the creative type. So this shirt was a challenge for me but I took it on and I think I did a pretty good job at meeting it.

When I was less than 2 years old one of my grandfathers died, and from that time till I was around ten I thought that sending my grandfather things up in heaven was a way to make him smile down on me. But what can you send up to heaven, you ask? Well as a two year old I decided that balloons were the things I was going to give him. So, whenever I got a balloon from a birthday party or the grocery store or wherever, I would then go outside and release it into the air and say something like “Here you go Grandpa! Hope you like it.” As a little kid I was positive that it was going to make it all the way to heaven. Sure, now I know that those balloons never made it to heaven and at some height the balloon would pop and fall to the ground. Don’t judge me, I was little and didn’t know I was littering and maybe killing small animals… But thinking back I remember the faith of a child I had. I was sure that my grandpa would get the balloon all the way up in heaven. No borders (atmospheric pressure or heat or whatever) to break it.

So when I was trying to get my creative juices flowing to come up with the design of the shirt I wanted something simple. While using the trusty Google image search I came across a chalk drawing, by the British artist Banksy, with the little girl reaching for a balloon and the saying “There is always hope.” After several stages of the shirt and straying away from the simplicity I was looking for in the beginning I went back to just a balloon and it made sense. That was all it needed. It took me back to that time when I was a kid, letting my balloons go, believing that they were headed to my grandpa in heaven.

Maybe that’s the simplest way to put it. We need that child like faith, that hope; if we believe God has no borders that we can begin to do something. No matter where we start, big or small, we can start to let our balloons go and break the borders in our lives that shouldn’t be there. So go ahead and let your balloons fly and see where they go.

-Heather Scott-
Member of the 2010 College Conference @ Montreat Planning Team
Student at Belmont University, AV Queen

Montreat Youth Sunday in November!

2009-11-25T09:02:00.003-05:00

Walk Jones is Pastor of Northminster Presbyterian Church in Pensacola, Florida and they just did their report to the congregation on their experience in July at Montreat Youth Conferences here in mid-November! To their surprise, this has some unexpected benefits!

College Conference Shirt Poll!

2009-11-23T14:41:00.010-05:00

We've already got an awesome design for the College Conference t-shirt (it's a big secret, for now), but we want to know if you'd prefer a long sleeve or short sleeve.

[UPDATE] The poll has ended! Looks like long sleeves squeaked out a victory. Results are below. The t-shirt design will be posted soon!

A College Chaplain's Perspective on the College Conference @ Montreat

2009-11-23T13:57:00.002-05:00

The leaves are changing and the nights are getting longer. This will be Wooster's fourth year attending the Collegiate conference and our group came back to campus asking about the theme and when registration is due! How exciting to be a part of this growing community and important conference experience with generations of College students.

This year I love the theme, "God without Borders" as I prepare to teach my class on Interfaith Dialogue it is exciting to know that we will be starting 2010 by hearing from Eboo Patel the founder of the Interfaith Youth Core. Our world needs more people of faith who are committed to their own faith and strong enough in it to learn about others and respect what we can learn from each other. I will hold off on my new year's resolutions until AFTER the conference where I know the preaching and the keynotes will be amazing and inspiring.

In addition I always want to know what I will come away with in terms of things I can apply right away. The workshops should be great places to fill in the practical - gather resources, network with other students, chaplains, campus ministers, and other great folks, and simply refill my/our well for the coming semester. Choosing which of the great workshops to attend will be the hardest part!

See you there!
Linda

Rev. Linda Morgan-Clement, DMin.
Chaplain and Director of Interfaith Campus Ministry, The College of Wooster

God Without Borders 2010!! Small Groups are Revamped!

2009-11-16T16:16:00.002-05:00

I am so excited to present the new conception of what was formerly the "small group." The "small group" has undergone a transformation, a re-creation, and a re-visioning! What was once the “small group” is now a FOCUS GROUP. Designed to address specific interests of students, the discussion in the focus groups will hopefully move from the theoretical to the practical with the help of our keynote and worship leaders!

The theme this January is "God Without Borders." The Christian faith knows many borders. Borders of race divide Christians every Sunday morning in what has become the most segregated hour of the week. Borders of biblical interpretation divide Christians affirming the inerrancy of the text from Christians who learn from interpreted myth. Borders of gender and sexuality divide Christians from themselves. Borders of age divide older congregants from the youth of the church. Borders divide people from new ideas, from growth, from loving other children of God, and ultimately from God. Authentic faith must seek to identify these borders. This is where I hope the newly conceptualized "small groups" will provide insight.

In January we will be splitting into focus groups with border-crossing on our minds. These topical focus groups will be assigned by personal interest. Focus group topics include interfaith dialogue, gender identity, human sexuality, international missions, international relations, poverty and human crisis, and racial and ethnic identity. You will have the opportunity to sign up for a particular focus group in which you have interest at registration. You do not need specific experience or special knowledge about a certain topic to be a part of any of the focus groups! You only need desire for border-crossing!

This year, when we meet in Montreat in the chill of winter, we will meet in the hope that possibilities abound when we dare to cross borders! Praise be to the God without borders!!

Enjoy the fall semester! I look forward to seeing you all in January!

Peace,

Sarah Cairatti
Co-Director of the College Conference at Montreat 2010
M. Div. Union Theological Seminary in the City of New York

2011 Youth Conference & Middle School Directors Announced!

2009-10-21T14:31:00.003-04:00

Montreat Conference Center is pleased to announce the directors of the 2011 youth and middle school conferences! We look forward to sharing in ministry with these fine folks!

Middle School Directors: Clay Boyles & Joan Jones

Weeks 1 & 2 Youth Conference Directors: AJ Mealor & Geoff Ryken

Weeks 3 & 4 Youth Conference Directors: Taylor Lewis Guthrie & Clarisse Durnell

Weeks 5 & 6 Youth Conference Directors: Marti Reed Hazelrigg & Lisa Diedrick

Registration packets for the 2010 conference are available for download now! www.montreat.org/young

Know a youth leader who needs a mid-winter treat? Come to Montreat for The Blaze! www.montreat.org/current/2010-the-blaze

Religion is a Life-Giving Force - Eboo Patel

2009-10-20T15:10:00.005-04:00

Eboo Patel, Executive Director of the Interfaith Youth Core and one of the 2010 College Conference at Montreat keynoters, shares his excitement and hopes about his visit to Montreat in January.

Challenge Yourself at the College Conference

2009-10-09T10:09:00.012-04:00

I am really excited about the college conference this year—the theme, the speakers, and the conversations that will take place!!

Our theme this year is God Without Borders—we are going to explore how God’s love and power help us transcend and transform the boundaries we place on ourselves and between ourselves and others. We hope to address this on all sorts of levels – on a personal level, how does God’s love empower us to transform the boundaries that separate us from other classmates such as people of with different majors, hometowns, races, political views, or interests? We will also talk about how we sometimes grow comfortable with the labels we give ourselves and others, and how that is a challenge and a gift from God – we all are different and created in God’s image so how do we maintain our diversity without shutting people out? On a global level – how is God calling us as Christians to go beyond the borders set up by religious belief, economic background, and nationality? What does it mean that the God we worship is BIGGER than the God we worship?

We have exciting and challenging leadership to help us explore this theme - -Cynthia Rigby, Anna Carter-Florence, Troy Bronsink, Bruce Reyes-Chow, and Eboo Patel. We are trying something new this year with a theologian-in-residence, Bruce Reyes-Chow. Bruce, the current moderator of the PCUSA, will join us in the journey through the conference helping us tie together the theme and the speakers to our faith and the Reformed tradition. He will be there to give us questions to ponder as we listen to the speakers and to make connections between keynote, conversations, and worship.

Please stay tuned for more blog posts from our planning team, who are working hard to make this conference a fantastic one! Can’t wait to see you all in January 2010.

* * * *
Shelly Barrick Parsons is one of the co-directors for the 2010 College Conference at Montreat. She is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA) and a campus minister at West Virginia University.

New Kirk Presbyterian at "World on Fire"

2009-10-07T13:12:00.003-04:00

We thought you'd enjoy this video report on the 2009 Montreat Youth Conference trip by the group from New Kirk Presbyterian Church, Columbia SC. Mason and Katie Todd are the Directors of Youth Ministries. Check out their youth blog.

If your own group has a video or slide show, please share it with us! Email a link to bobT[at]montreat.org

2010 Youth Conferences at Montreat!

2009-10-01T15:23:00.004-04:00

The Montreat Youth Conferences are designed for high school students, entering freshmen through graduated seniors. A Youth Conference is a unique gathering of young people from all over the country for a week of study, worship, and recreation. Activities include morning energizers, music, keynote, small group meetings where the conference theme is explored, afternoon recreation activities, and evening worship.

2010 Montreat Youth Conferences: “In These Waters”

Called from the chaos, we gather in this sacred space, rooted in God’s call and purpose. We seek to provide an authentic community of unconditional love where each individual gives and receives support, trust, and acceptance from others. We will encourage and empower youth to encounter God in, through, and with each other to ask questions, embrace challenges, and be commissioned to apply their faith relevantly in the world.

Registration packets are available here NOW for the 2010 youth conferences, along with more detailed information regarding conference leadership, housing options, dates and how you can add mission to your youth conference experience. We hope you’ll join us in 2010 as we seek to explore together God’s call on our lives.

Come to the 2010 College Conference!

2009-09-29T16:01:00.012-04:00

Believe it or not, the 2010 College Conference at Montreat is just around the corner! Registration for the conference opened two weeks ago, and we already have close to 500 registered attendees.

Several distinguished key leaders will be joining us for the conference (January 2-5) including Eboo Patel, Cynthia Rigby, Anna Carter-Florence, Troy Bronsink and Bruce Reyes-Chow. Leadership includes a Rhodes Scholar, an eminent theologian, an author, an abbot, and a moderator. Complete leader bios and more information here.

Join us from January 2-5 for the perfect opportunity to get your Montreat fix before heading back to school.

From now until November 1st, conference registration is only $95. Bring a group from your school, come with a group, or register individually at Montreat.org. Although conference center housing is full, there are plenty of other options listed below.

Housing Options for the 2010 College Conference

2009-09-29T14:51:00.007-04:00

As you may have heard, conference center housing for the 2010 College Conference at Montreat is full. Don't fret, though, there are plenty of other options:

Groups can rent houses in Montreat directly from the owners. You can request a list of these owners by emailing carolo@montreat.org. She'll email you back with a .pdf.
Greybeard Realty offers vacation rentals in Montreat. Houses sleep anywhere from 4 to 19 people. Phone #: 888-228-8008
Montreat Cottage Rentals also offer a few houses to rent. Phone #:828-669-9700
Individuals can book a room at the William Black Lodge (888-644-8744).
For housing outside of Montreat, Ridgecrest Conference Center and Camp Rockmont have rooms to accommodate large and small groups.

Good luck! Once you secure housing for January 2-5th, make sure you register for the conference at Montreat.org.

Using Facebook in Youth Ministry

2009-09-17T10:09:00.013-04:00

Beth McLeod Thaxton asked Bob Tuttle to help her address the issue of Facebook use with her adult advisors at a training event and Bob decided to host a conference call to see what Beth and 3 other experienced Montreat Youth Conference group leaders: Jay Banasiak, Carrie Rhoads Tuttle, and Frank Kelly had to say about these questions:

1) How, in general, can we be faithful to our young people through use of facebook?

2) How do we, as youth advisors, navigate the tough spot of having everyone we know (youth, old college friends, fraternity brothers/sorority sisters, family, church friends, school, etc.) in one place together. Are there challenges here with the content that we place on our facebook pages?

3) What are the pros/cons of having our youth group members "friends" of ours on Facebook?

4) What are some new challenges that we'll face with this technology in ministry?

Listen using the player below or download the mp3 (right click > save-as)

College Conference Registration is Open!

2009-09-15T08:32:00.012-04:00

It's getting a little brisk outside. Leaves are starting to show bits of color. Backpacks and homework are again part of the daily routine. It's fall and school is back in session. For many that means a return to early mornings in a classroom... sometimes we just need a little Montreat in our lives. Have no fear, if you're a recent high school graduate or college student, you can start planning your mid-winter Montreat fix!

The 2010 College Conference at Montreat (January 2-5) is the perfect way to start off the new year. We create borders between us and God, between Christians and other faiths, between families and friends, between poor and rich. We even create borders inside ourselves. How do these borders prevent us from becoming the community God calls us to be in Christ Jesus?

Explore the "God Without Borders" theme with leadership from Eboo Patel, Cynthia Rigby, Anna Carter-Florence, Bruce Reyes-Chow, Troy Bronsink, and others.

Registration is now open for groups and individuals! Visit the Montreat.org College Page for more information, OR if you're already on the ball, download the registration forms for groups or individuals!

COLLEGE CONFERENCE GROUP REGISTRATION FORM (.pdf)
COLLEGE CONFERENCE INDIVIDUAL REGISTRATION FORM (.pdf)

Ordinary to Extraordinary!

2009-08-25T10:07:00.003-04:00

The 2009 Middle School Conference was awesome! From the theme to the keynote, worship, music, and recreation, everything went smoothly and we all had a great time. Thanks so much for participating, and we look forward to seeing everybody again at next year's Middle School Conference: Into the Wild!

Check out 177 photos from the 2009 Middle School Conference on Flickr! Other resources can be found on the Middle School Conference resource page.

Back Home Leader Chats: White Memorial Presbyterian (Part 2)

2009-08-14T16:19:00.002-04:00

Natalie Raygor is Director of Youth Ministries and Berry French is Pastoral Resident for Youth Ministry at White Memorial Presbyterian Church in Raleigh North Carolina.

In this interview (part 2 of 2), we hear more about youth ministry program in a very large church (4,000 members) and how they select, recruit, and train the adult volunteers needed to support such a progam: "Lay-led, youth-driven, staff-supported."

'World on Fire' Week Six Video

2009-08-12T13:19:00.004-04:00

The sixth and final week of this summer's 'World on Fire' Youth Conferences at Montreat is complete! HUGE thanks to everyone who came this week and truly made it special. We hope to see you next year for 'In These Waters!'

Remember, graduated Seniors, you are now eligible to attend the College Conference at Montreat, January 2-5, 2010.

Check out ALL the photos from Week five on Flickr (349 of 'em). Big thanks to Jeffery Frayer, our conference photographer for this week.

More conference resources can be found on the 'World on Fire' resource page.

Make sure you upload your pictures/videos from the week on Facebook.com/montreat and follow conferences year round here on MyMontreat and Twitter.com/montreat.

Back Home Leader Chats: Scott Brown and Suzanne Watt

2009-08-11T08:50:00.002-04:00

Scott Brown is Youth Director and Suzanne Watt is Associate Youth Director at First Presbyterian Church in Greensboro, North Carolina.

Find out about a popular early morning gathering of youth before they go to school at a local restaurant and hear more about the role youth play in an increasing emphasis in their congregation's outreach ministry.

Back Home Leader Chats: White Memorial Presbyterian (Part 1)

2009-08-10T11:10:00.004-04:00

Natalie Raygor is Director of Youth Ministries and Berry French is Pastoral Resident for Youth Ministry at White Memorial Presbyterian Church in Raleigh, North Carolina.

In this interview (part 1 of 2), we get an overview of what a youth ministry program at a large church (4,000 members) is like and hear about a popular Bible study that Natalie conducts for girls.

Sometimes It's Hard to be the Good Samaritan

2009-08-06T19:32:00.011-04:00

When John Fife gets fired up, you know it. Last night the former moderator of the PC(USA) gave a powerful and harrowing sermon, calling for people to keep the faith of Christ, even faced with our fears of the world.

John described the history of the PC(USA) Moderator's cross, an important symbol of the re-united Presbyterian Church. In 1948 two separate silver crosses were purchased on the Scottish island of Iona by the Reverend Dr. H. Ray Anderson, pastor of the Fourth Presbyterian Church of Chicago. Anderson gave these crosses to the moderators of a divided Presbyterian church, North and South, in hopes that one day they would be reunited. In 1983 that happened, the crosses were riveted through the center. and we became the Presbyterian Church, USA. Read more about the Moderator's cross here.

He went on to describe how the dividing lines of fear and race are an issue in the church saying: "Where I live on the US-Mexican border, we can't dream of one family, we've lost the flame of the sprit that makes us one. We can't see for the walls that we're building."

And John Fife would know. In Tucson, AZ, he works with several faith-based humanitarian organizations which aim to provide care and ministry to migrants crossing miles of desert in sweltering heat. The Sonoran Samaritans "puts 4-wheel drive vehicles in the desert with volunteer doctors, nurses and EMT's. They search for migrants in distress. Heat stroke, dehydration, bloody mangled feet, snake bites, strokes, heart attacks, rape, we've found folks every way you can imagine."

What does it mean to be the church of Christ under those circumstances?

"It means the church needs to be faithful. It needs to conquer racism and fear. It needs to be out there saving lives."

"A rabbi friend of mine told me: 'John, you need to know that in the Hebrew scriptures in the old testament, God only says once that we should love our neighbor. That's because God knew we could probably get that. But God says 36 times that we have to love the alien in our midst as ourselves. God knew we'd struggle with that one.'"

Nonviolence as a Christian Ideal

2009-08-04T19:36:00.014-04:00

"Be transformed by the renewing of your minds,

that you might become closer to God"

John Fife is passionate about the power of nonviolence and it's ability to impact social justice. Drawing from the early church: For the first four centuries of the Christian church they had an unswerving commitment to nonviolence. Early Christians refused to pledge allegiance to Rome, refused to go to war, and were persecuted for it.

They believed that Jesus proclaimed the peaceable kingdom of god. taught ethical nonviolence. blessed peacemakers and insisted that followers should love their enemy because God loves them.

Once Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire, it began to forget that all important teaching of Jesus. Now service in the legions became a necessity to protect the empire that protected the church.

Early Christians became admirers of Jesus instead of disciples of Christ. But modern moments of nonviolence are full of promise. Gandhi's India. Martin Luther King and the American civil rights movement. Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. The Berlin Wall. Marchers in the streets of Iran.

Nonviolence demands a certain heroism that a surprising large number of people are willing to shoulder. And so, "let love be genuine, hate what is evil... love one another with mutual affection"

'World on Fire' Week Five Video

2009-08-04T13:13:00.006-04:00

Summer has certainly been busy so far, but it's not over yet! 'World on Fire' week five brought 1,107 youth and youth leaders through the gate. Our wonderful planning team and leadership led worship, keynote, music, and recreation without a hitch!

Remember, graduated Seniors, you are now eligible to attend the College Conference at Montreat, January 2-5, 2010.

Check out ALL the photos from Week five on Flickr (all 308!). Big thanks to Jeffery Frayer, our conference photographer for this week.

More conference resources can be found on the 'World on Fire' resource page.

Make sure you upload your pictures/videos from the week on Facebook.com/montreat and follow conferences year round here on MyMontreat and Twitter.com/montreat (#myc09).

Back Home Leader Chats: Shannon Guse

2009-07-31T08:49:00.003-04:00

Shannon Guse is DCE for Youth and Young Adult Ministries at Faith Presbyterian Church in Tallahassee FL.

In this interview she tells about prayer partners between members of her congregation and her youth, and also tells us the latest activities of the Presbyterian Youth Workers Association at www.pywa.org and on Facebook. In addition she shares the efforts that her Session is making in area of college ministry.

Feel the Passion in Keynote

2009-07-30T13:15:00.011-04:00

Kelly Wiant-Thralls and Francis Miller have been outstanding in Keynote sessions this week. This morning, we were urged to shift our anger and passion to things that matter in life. Instead of becoming angry with the morning traffic, slow grocery store check-out, or how long our meal takes to be prepared in a restaurant, shift that anger, that passion, to something that really matters.

The Miniature Earth web video does a great job of humbling us. "If you keep your food in a refrigerator, and your clothes in a closet, if you have a roof over your head, and have a bed to sleep in, You are richer than 75% of the entire world population."

And so we were asked to use the anger and passion in our souls to fight the fires of an unjust world. We have the means, education and intelligence to DO something about it. We are able, but are we willing to do what it takes to make sure other people eat, have clean water, and a roof over their heads?

In the words of Francis Miller: "We can make this a more wonderful world"

Back Home Leader Chats: Ellen Shields

2009-07-30T12:51:00.004-04:00

Ellen Shields is Director of Youth Ministries at St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church in New Orleans LA.

In this interview she shares why staying in Assembly Inn is great for her group and gives an overview of youth ministry in her congregation as well as info about a great mission program called RHINO--"Rebuilding Hope in New Orleans."

Back Home Leader Chats: Kim McNeill

2009-07-29T13:56:00.002-04:00

Kim McNeill is Staff Associate for Youth/Congregational Life at University Presbyterian Church in Chapel Hill NC.

In this interview she shares lots of insight into their large program for youth ministry and how she promotes it among the congregation and with parents.

'World on Fire' Week Four Video

2009-07-28T14:33:00.002-04:00

Thanks to everyone who came to 'World on Fire' week IV! We hope to see you again soon! Remember, graduated Seniors, you are now eligible to attend the College Conference at Montreat, January 2-5, 2010.

Check out ALL the photos from Week four on Flickr (276 this time). Big thanks to Mike Erdelyi, our conference photographer for this week.

More conference resources can be found on the 'World on Fire' resource page.

Make sure you upload your pictures/videos from the week on Facebook.com/montreat and follow conferences year round here on MyMontreat and Twitter.com/montreat (#myc09).

Back Home Leader Chats: Scott Neely

2009-07-28T07:35:00.002-04:00

Scott Neely is Director of Recreation and Youth Ministry at Alamance Presbyterian Church in Greensboro NC and has been bringing groups for a number of years.

Listen to how important Scott thinks the "backhome meeting" at the end of the night is to his group's experience at the conference by playing the interview below

Back Home Leader Chats: Mary MacMichael

2009-07-27T09:12:00.003-04:00

Mary MacMichael is Director of Church Programs/Youth at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Roanoke VA and has been bringing groups for a number of years.

Listen in on plans for a Montreat Youth Conference Sunday that begins in the van on the way home as well as how she promotes the conference and her timeline for registration by playing the interview below

Back Home Leader Chats: Kathryn Dabbs

2009-07-21T12:32:00.004-04:00

Kathryn Dabbs is a former Montreat Youth Conference Co-Director and is an adult leader with Hilton Presbyterian Church in Newport News, VA. Hilton Presbyterian has a vital youth ministry program whose continuity has been maintained by volunteers for the last seven years. Find out more by playing the interview below.

Back Home Leader Chats: Alan Hall

2009-07-21T12:32:00.003-04:00

Alan Hall is a volunteer adult leader with Heritage Presbyterian Church in Ackworth GA.

Alan came to a training event for adult leaders of youth at Montreat last January ("The Blaze") and was able to apply some of what he learned from Mark Yaconelli's presentations in their local church's youth ministry program. Find out how by playing the interview below, and watch www.montreat.org for more details about "The Blaze 2010" with leaders Tony Jones and Brian Blount.

'World on Fire' Week Three Video

2009-07-21T08:32:00.008-04:00

After a brief break from conferences here at Montreat, 'World on Fire' is back with Adele Halliday and Tim Beach-Verhey leading Keynote and Worship, as well as Tricia Dillon-Thomas and Bill Buchanan leading Recreation and Music. Thanks to everyone who came, we hope to see you again soon! Remember, graduated Seniors, you are now eligible to attend the College Conference at Montreat, January 2-5, 2010.

Check out ALL the photos from Week three on Flickr (all 368 of 'em!). Big thanks to Libby Shannon, our conference photographer for this week.

More conference resources can be found on the 'World on Fire' resource page.

Make sure you upload your pictures/videos from the week on Facebook.com/montreat and follow conferences year round here on MyMontreat and Twitter.com/montreat (#myc09).

Back Home Leader Chats: Frank Kelly

2009-07-17T16:15:00.002-04:00

Frank Kelly is Director of Youth Ministry at Idlewild Presbyterian Church in Memphis TN.

Frank has 3,000 pictures and 90 videos on Facebook and uses it as the primary tool to communicate and promote the church's youth ministry program. Find out how by playing the interview below.

Back Home Leader Chats: Rebecca Mattern

2009-07-16T14:52:00.006-04:00

Rebecca Mattern is Director of Youth Ministry at Westminster Presbyterian Church in Durham, NC.

Find out about how their church supports trips to both mission sites as well as Montreat Youth Conferences in the same summer and how their young people process those experiences through the eyes of faith by playing the interview below.

Video Chatting With Athena (from the Philippines!)

2009-07-14T12:39:00.008-04:00

At this morning's keynote, Adele Halliday video chatted (live!) with Athena, a missionary with the World Council of Churches in the Philippines. She chatted with Adele and 1300 youth for about ten minutes about the experiences she's had and her work halfway around the world. Athena recalled the command to love your neighbor as yourself, and urged conferees not to feel powerless when confronted with injustice.

Adele is the keynote speaker for Youth Conferences this week and next. She is joined by conference preacher Tim Beach-Verhey, recreation leader Tricia Dillon Thomas, and music leader Bill Buchanan. More information about conference leadership is available here.

We're looking forward to a wonderful conference this week. We're glad you're here!

Back Home Leader Chats: Neil Myer

2009-07-14T11:02:00.011-04:00

Neil Myer is Director of Christian Education & Youth Ministries at Pioneer Memorial Presbyterian Church in Solon, Ohio.

Find out about how their church built excitement among the young people for their first trip to Montreat Youth Conferences and get some ideas for innovative fundraising by playing the interview below.

Check out updates from Neil's group on their website.

'World on Fire' Week Two Video

2009-06-23T08:27:00.008-04:00

The second week on 'World on Fire' was just as incredible as the first. 1300 Youth and Youth Leaders attended the conference, and the energy from all of those people was definitely evident throughout the week. Thanks to everyone who came, we hope to see you again soon! Remember, graduated Seniors, you are now eligible to attend the College Conference at Montreat, January 2-5, 2010.

These photos and more are available to download on Flickr. Thanks to Jim Kirkpatrick and Geoff Ryken for taking great pictures all week!

More conference resources can be found on the 'World on Fire' resource page.

Make sure you upload your pictures/videos from the week on Facebook.com/montreat and follow conferences year round here on MyMontreat and Twitter.com/montreat (#myc09).

Back Home Leader Chats: Chuck Goodman

2009-06-19T15:38:00.006-04:00

Chuck Goodman is one of the associate pastors of Mt. Pleasant Presbyterian Church, Mt. Pleasant, SC.

Find out about some tips and techniques for bring a large group to Montreat Youth Conferences, as well as why Chuck thinks everyone who works with youth should be on Facebook, by playing the interview below.

ALL the photos from MYC 1!

2009-06-17T13:53:00.003-04:00

Did you see yourself of your group on the screen last week? We've uploaded all the pictures projected during the week to flickr, feel free to check 'em out and download 'em!

On Flickr: 'World on Fire' Week 1

Rainy Morning Keynote: Totally Worth It

2009-06-17T09:54:00.008-04:00

Wednesday morning greeted us with a thunderstorm, but our fearless youth conferees (and even more fearless leaders) jumped puddles and streams to make it to morning keynote with Scott Phillips.

It's a good thing they made it, too. Here's some excerpts from this morning:

"Jesus: the pioneer, the author, the perfecter of what it's all about."

"Sometimes, maybe even a lot of times we feel alone, even in the midst of these cloud of witnesses. The people who are around you teach you, guide you, help you on your journey, sometimes make you angry, but will never leave you."

"We've been talking about changing the world, and if we're going to do that, we need to do it together."

This in addition to excerpts from "Lord of the Rings" and "Freedom Writers" made for an awesome, informative, inspirational rainy morning keynote.

'World on Fire' Week One Video

2009-06-17T08:32:00.004-04:00

The first week of youth conference was a resounding success! Thanks to everyone who came - we hope you take the Montreat experience back to your home towns.

Thanks especially to the Planning Team who put it all together. The photos in the video above were all taken by the conference photographer, Thomas Guthrie. His photos from this week are available on Flickr.

More conference resources can be found on the 'World on Fire' resource page.

Make sure you upload your pictures/videos from the week on Facebook.com/montreat and follow conferences year round here on MyMontreat and Twitter.com/montreat (#myc09).

Back Home Leader Chats: Melissa Coleman

2009-06-16T09:58:00.003-04:00

Melissa Coleman is moderator of the Christian Education and Nurture Commission for Flint River Presbytery, GA.

Find out about their presbytery youth ministry program and Montreat Youth Conferences fit together, as well as why she loves staying in Assembly Inn, by playing the interview below.

Worshipping with Tom Are

2009-06-15T20:02:00.006-04:00

Close to 1300 youth arrived yesterday for the second week of 'World on Fire', and we're so happy they did. The valley is bustling with groups playing frisbee, getting ice cream at the Huck, and singing 3-part harmonies with Eric Wall (I kid you not, it was awesome).

We're looking forward to having everyone around this week - it's always exciting!

"The thing about plans are that our plans are about us. God's plans are about the world ... we tend to make plans that are too small." - Tom Are, Conference Preacher

Back Home Leader Chats: JoAnn Sharp

2009-06-12T16:13:00.003-04:00

JoAnn Sharp has a group of two boys at Youth Week One, but for her, quality counts, not quantity! She is the Director of Christian Education at John's Island Presbyterian Church in John's Island, SC.

Find out the challenges of coming with a small group as well as some tips for promotion in small churches, by playing the interview below.

Worshipping with Week 1

2009-06-11T19:31:00.006-04:00

This week's worship services have been great this week. Jorge Sayago-Gonzalez and Eric Wall bring offer guitar-infused organ-led songs, bringing a fresh take on beautiful hymns.

Tom Are speaks with such conviction, passion, humility and humor that it's hard not to be moved. The first week of Youth Conferences ends tomorrow with candlelight around the lake.

Back Home Leader Chats: Scott Huie

2009-06-11T11:02:00.007-04:00

Scott Huie has been bringing his group (Westminster Presbyterian in Snellville, GA) to Montreat Youth Conferences for 14 years, this year they brought 39 youth!

Find out how Scott deals with transportation and financial issues, as well as how to feed everybody, by playing the interview below.

The World is on FIRE

2009-06-07T19:34:00.005-04:00

Youth Conferences are here! "World on Fire" started off tonight with an awesome opening skit by the planning team. At left, conference preacher Tom Are and Sheridan from planning team welcome the 800-odd conference attendees.

If you've never been to a Youth Conference it's quite an experience. With energizers, recreation events, keynote sessions, live music, worship, small groups, and tons of other awesome events.

Keep up with Youth Conferences all summer here on MyMontreat.org where we'll be posting photos, videos, reflections and much more.

Welcoming Some Summer Staff

2009-05-26T13:51:00.004-04:00

Many of the collegiate summer staff arrived yesterday, and we're really happy to have them. Just as things pick up for the summer conference season, the Summer Staff arrive to help make everything happen. The Christian Education and Proclaiming the Text conferences both arrive June 1st, which is also the first week of our summer clubs program.

This week the staff will go through training and orientation to familiarize themselves with Montreat and their specific work areas, as well as their co-workers and lodges. It's an exciting way to start an exciting summer.

2009 Public Hike Schedule

2009-05-20T15:21:00.004-04:00

Ah, that wonderful summer pastime of hiking in Montreat... It's tough to beat the 2,500 acres of protected wilderness and spectacular views from the trails and paths the criss-cross the valley.

The Ranger staff will offer two public hikes every Tuesday and Thursday
during the peak conference season, both leaving at 9 AM from the Nature Center (669-9540). The short hike is designed to return in time for clubs pick up at noon; the longer hike will return mid to late afternoon. Wear sturdy, well-broken-in hiking shoes and bring water, snacks, and for longer hikes, a lunch. All hikes are free and open to the public.

Download the public hike PDF for information about the hikes for any given week this summer.

To ensure safety, in the event of inclement weather hikes on this list may be altered, truncated, or cancelled. If you hike on your own, please come by the Nature Center or General Store for trail maps and advice. Remember to always file a "flight plan" with someone who is not hiking with you and follow it. Always bring food and water and wear appropriate clothing.

In case of emergency call:
Black Mountain Fire and Rescue (828-669-9117)
Montreat Nature Center (828-669-9540)

Individual Youth Conference Registration!

2009-05-14T09:46:00.009-04:00

Want to come to Youth Conference this summer but don't have a group to come with? Take part in the Individual Registration pilot program this summer! This program is designed for youth in small or racial ethnic churches and will provide a back home group experience for individual registrants. There is availability in Week 1 (June 7-13), Week 2 (June 14-20), and Week 6 (August 2-8).

Montreat: Priceless!

2009-04-27T15:52:00.011-04:00

The Montreat Youth Conference experience is indeed priceless - as Jay Banasiak and his youth group (GOOTH!) from Clemmons Presbyterian Church point out in their 'Montreat: Priceless' video. The video is part of a larger fundraising campaign (GOOTH stock) to send the group to Massanetta Springs, Montreat, and a mission trip to South Carolina. We look forward to seeing you this summer, GOOTH!

Leaders: Interested in how veteran Montreater Jay Banasiak gets his group to Youth Conferences? Listen to an interview he gave us about his fundraiser by clicking the play button below!

Montreat // beat

2009-04-23T08:32:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone! Here's to hoping the last few weeks of school isn't too stressful, especially for you seniors out there. The staff is excited for the summer conference season, and especially for Youth Conferences! So here's a quick video compiling lots photos from MYC 2008.

If your groups hasn't signed up for 'World on Fire' yet, there's still (a little bit of) time!

World on Fire!

2009-04-01T14:59:00.010-04:00

Directors for the 2009 Youth Conferences at Montreat were here a few weekends ago. Scott Brown and Pen Peery sat down with us to express their excitement about the upcoming "World on Fire" conferences.

And don't forget to join the Facebook events for each week of the conference!

70˚ and Sunny

2009-03-18T15:08:00.005-04:00

Spring is just around the corner, and we can't wait to see the leaves come out and the flowers start to bloom... and for the Huckleberry to open.

Commissioning Service available!

2009-03-15T11:05:00.003-04:00

Have you planned for a commissioning service for your group on the Sunday they leave for Montreat Youth Conferences? We've got one for you!

Montreat Youth Conference link:
http://www.montreat.org/current/2009-youth-conferences-at-montreat/#Comm
issioning-MYC

Montreat Middle School Conference link:
http://www.montreat.org/current/2009-middle-school-conference-at-presbyt
erian-college/#Commissioning-MSC

Need more resources? Let us know by replying with a comment! See you this summer along with 6,000 other youth and adults!

Montreat Youth Conferences: Summer Well Spent

2009-03-03T12:24:00.005-05:00

It's still a little frosty here in Montreat, but we're still pretty excited about what the summertime has in store. This summer's "World on Fire" conference promises to be great. With nationally recognized recreation leaders, keynoters and worship leaders, how could it not be? We're looking forward to seeing each of you this summer at Montreat Conference Center. Don't forget to join the Facebook events for each week of the conference below!

Also, check out this video from Montreat Youth Conferences 2008! A huge thanks to Ashley Lamar for shooting the footage for us. Show your friends, show your parents, show your pastor!

Montreat Youth Conferences: Summer time well spent from Montreat on Vimeo.

Montreat Receives New Electric Car!

2009-02-12T09:28:00.006-05:00

Montreat Conference Center recently received a grant for the purchase of an electric passenger vehicle. The $10,000 grant was presented to the conference center on Sunday, January 25, by First Presbyterian Church and the D. Thomason Grant Committee in Shreveport, LA. “First Presbyterian Church of Shreveport has a long-standing appreciation for and relationship with Montreat Conference Center,” said the Rev. Pendleton B. Peery, pastor of the church. “Our ministry has been edified by the time we have spent being nurtured in the beautiful mountains of western North Carolina. The D. Thomason committee and the Session feel privileged to provide support to Montreat so that more congregations may benefit from its mission to strengthen the members and congregations of the Presbyterian Church.”

The vehicle, a Tomberlin E-Merge, is a fully electric, street legal passenger vehicle with seating for four and a top speed of 25 miles per hour. “Montreat is basically a pedestrian community, but there are places where walking is a challenge for some of our guests,” explained Montreat Conference Center’s president, Pete Peery, who was present at the Shreveport church to accept the gift. “This new vehicle is a two-fold blessing,” he continued. “Thanks to the support of our friends at the church in Shreveport, we are now able to transport older visitors and those with disabilities safely and comfortably, and in our on-going commitment to being good stewards of God’s creation, we are now using a transportation alternative that will do minimal harm to the environment.” Plugged into an electric power source instead of a gasoline pump, the vehicle will go 30 miles on a single charge. Operation is almost silent, and there are no greenhouse gas emissions that would impact the community’s air quality.

Montreat Conference Center, the Town of Montreat, and Montreat College, collaborating through Montreat Landcare, a newly formed grassroots conservation group, have also received a grant from the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources for the purchase of an electric utility vehicle to be shared between the three Montreat entities. “Each step we take, both individually and in partnership with the town and the college,” concluded Peery, “is a positive step toward responsible earth stewardship in our community.”

Wintertime in Montreat

2009-02-06T12:50:00.001-05:00

Early February graced Montreat with a few inches of snow and a silent, beautiful view of the mountains.

Wintertime in Montreat from Montreat on Vimeo.

College Conference 2009

2009-01-30T12:50:00.000-05:00

A big thanks to everyone who came out to "Outrageous Generosity: The College Conference at Montreat." We had some great speakers in Tony Campolo, John Lewis, representatives from Invisible Children, and Linda Morgan-Clement, as well as awesome small group time and rec events. Really, though, how can you go wrong with an event called "Mixgizeroke?"

Both John Lewis and (Moderator of the 218th General Assembly) Bruce Reyes-Chow gave excellent "Town Hall" question and answer sessions. Then, of course, there was the ever-entertaining concert artist Jonathan Kingham. And who can forget the band? "Black Mountain Blue Grace" kept us dancing, clapping, and singing along all weekend.

The weekend was full of informative events, and we're sure there were some things you would have liked to go to but missed (due to scheduling, of course), so we put together a little video wrapping up the conference:

College Conference at Montreat 2009 from Montreat on Vimeo.

Youth Conference 2009 Weeks V & VI Leadership

2009-01-28T16:05:00.000-05:00

July 26-August 1 and August 2-8

Are you coming this week? RSVP to the Facebook Event! Week V | Week VI

Co-Keynote Speaker: Kelly Wiant-Thralls, Harrisburg, Pa.; Associate Pastor at Market Square Presbyterian Church. She loves the spicy food, playing in the dirt, and indie rock.

Co-Keynote Speaker: Francis Miller, Cleveland Heights, Ohio; Pastor of Noble Road Presbyterian Church. He enjoys playing sports & games, tasting a wide range of food & beverages, and being a husband & dad to three great kids.

Preacher: John Fife, Tucson, Ariz.; Pastor Emeritus of Southside Presbyterian Church. Now he volunteers free-flying hawks at the Desert Museum, teaches a course at Arizona State University, writes a column for the Tucson newspaper, and takes humanitarian aid to migrants in the desert with No More Deaths.

Recreation Leader: Tara Spuhler McCabe, Washington, D.C.; Associate Pastor at New York Avenue Presbyterian Church. Play, worship, and faith have always been a priority for Tara and her family. She loves dancing, barbecue, traveling, biking, and endless opportunities to share faith journeys in a variety of ways.

Music Leader: John Lee, Minneapolis, Minn.; former Pastor at Bethany Presbyterian Church, San Bruno, Calif. He has led music for Montreat and for Triennium, and he has taken on the new hobby of preparing and recovering from winter in Minnesota with his wife and two children.

Planning Team:

Robin Pugh, San Francisco, Calif.

Tracy Wicklund, Bradenton, Fla.;
Ashley Clemmer, Fountain Inn, S.C.

Joy Cotzias, Richmond, Va.

Russ Ferguson, Durham, N.C.

Kate Hopta, Columbus, Ohio

Kaye Gibson, Anderson, S.C.

Marcus Maphis, Ashland, Va.

MaggieStalls, Wilmington, N.C.

Josh Campbell, Harrisburg, Pa.

Youth Conference 2009 Weeks III & IV

2009-01-28T15:52:00.002-05:00

July 12-18 and July 19-25

Are you coming this week? RSVP to the Facebook Event! Week III | Week IV

Keynote Speaker: Adele Halliday, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.; Program

Coordinator at the national office of The United Church of Canada. Adele is a life-long Presbyterian who is passionate about social justice, new cultures, traveling, spicy foods, time outdoors, and laughing.

Preacher: Tim Beach-Verhey, Faison, NC; Co-Pastor, with his wife Kathy, of Faison Presbyterian Church. Tim loves talking with people, especially young people, about Christian faith and how it shapes our daily lives, activities, and relationships.

Recreation Leader: Tricia Dillon Thomas, Sarasota, Fla.; Pastor for youth and families at Peace Presbyterian Church. She lives with her husband, Clay, five-year-old Mason, and six-month-old Fields Katherine, and in her spares time she likes to edit for Lectionary Homiletics, watch Sesame Stree, and knit.

Music Leader: Bill Buchanan, Asheville, N.C..; Associate Pastor at Grace Covenant Presbyterian Church. Bill loves singing with youth, eating good barbecue, and being a good husband to Aimee and a good Dad to Elli and Taylor. He’s a been a Montreat junkie for years, and is excited for this summer!

Planning Team:

Nicole Partin, Tampa, Fla

Scott Brown, Greensboro, N.C.

Jean Howington, Acworth, Ga.

Kim Olson, Zionsville, Ind.

Matthew Ruffner, Decatur, Ga.

Jim Ewing, Laurinburg, N.C.

Ida Hoequist, Daphne, Ala.

Victoria Terzian, Fayetteville, N.C.

Lindsay Yingst, Hummelstown, Pa.

Evan Wildhack, St. Petersburg, Fla.

Youth Conference 2009 Weeks I & II Leadership

2009-01-28T15:21:00.000-05:00

June 7-13 and June 14-20

Are you coming this week? RSVP to the Facebook Event! Week I | Week II

Keynote Speaker: Scott Phillips, Vancouver, Wa.; Pastor, East Woods Presbyterian Church. Scott is married with one 11-year-old son and two college-age step children. He loves movies, reading, movies, traveling, movies, funky food, movies, a good football game and movies.

Preacher: Tom Are, Jr., Prairie Village, Kansas; Pastor of Village Presbyterian Church. Tom and his wife began bringing their children to Montreat when they were infants. Youth conferences are Tom’s favorite experience in Montreat, and he just can’t stay away!

Recreation Leader: Rachel Pence, Jacksonville, Fla.; Studying religion and philosophy at Queens University in Charlotte, N.C. She enjoys hiking, climbing, biking, traveling, laughing,

singing, dancing for no reason, and a good cup of chai.

Co-Music Leader: Jorge Sayago-Gonzalez, Louisville, Ky.;Director of Youth Ministries at Second Presbyterian Church. Jorge is a singer/songwriter with an interest in multicultural, contemporary, & emergent worship.

Co-Music Leader: Eric Wall, Asheville, N.C.; Director of Music at First Presbyterian Church. This is Eric’s first Youth Conference, but not his first time at Montreat.

Planning Team:

Sue Dean, Bethesda, Md.;

Pen Peery, Shreveport, La.;

Jen Evans, Charlotte, N.C.;

Tai Zimmerman-Magette, Fort Mill, S.C.;

A.J. Mealor, Tucker, Ga.;

Geoffrey Ryken, Conway, Ark.;

Sheridan Allen, Monticello, Ind.;

Zachary Ennis, Macon, Ga.;

Sarah Morrison, Greer, S.C.;

Jacob Douylliez, St Mary’s Ga.

Wintertime in Montreat

2009-01-18T12:10:00.000-05:00

It's COLD here at Montreat. A brisk 9˚ this morning. Lake Susan even froze!

Welcome to MyMontreat!

2009-01-17T18:03:00.000-05:00

Hi there! You've reached the shiny new MyMontreat.org. We'll be keeping you informed about what's going on inside the gate throughout the year, as well as keeping you informed about upcoming youth and young adult conferences with blog posts, pictures, videos, tweets, and anything else we can come up with. We're glad you're here!

Be sure to connect with Montreat Conference center on the interwebs: Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Vimeo