Two Youth, Leaders attend Youth Leadership Summit

In November of 2023 two youth representatives Abby and Madelyn from Faith Lutheran Church in Eldridge and adult representative, Brit Swanson, Executive Director of Lutheran Lakeside Camp and member of Fjeldberg Lutheran in Huxley attended the Youth Leadership Summit in Chicago, Illinois.

Each synod was invited by the ELCA churchwide organization to send two youth leaders (in grades 9-12) and one adult to the ELCA Youth Leadership Summit. The goal of the Youth Leadership Summit was to empower and inspire young people within their congregations, communities, and synods to embrace their calling and become influential leaders beyond their current context. Youth and leaders gathered around the theme, “Called on The Way” focusing on exploring the unique journeys that individuals take in response to their calling and how these journeys shape their leadership abilities through Biblical narratives and alongside our many ELCA advocacy partners.

Reflection from Madelyn: One of my favorite parts was at night we would have family group devotions. There were about 4-5 synods, and the synods that were together were usually closer together (in our family group was all 3 Iowa synods, the Nebraska synod, and a Minnesota synod). It was really fun to have devotions because we all grew as individuals, but also as a group. It was also cool to be in a room with people from all around the country knowing that we were called by God to learn more about God’s love for us and also grow together in our faith.

Reflection from Britt: The event was spectacular. The youth who ran it and inspired the youth around them filled me with so much hope. During discussions we heard from people from all over the country and problems were the same for most of us. I loved that the youth's concerns were not about low numbers, tight budgets, or facility shortcomings but a lack of a place for them and their voices in the church. They were not concerned with facilities or traditions, they were concerned with having a place to belong. If that is what we need to build the church then I think we're in luck and that is very doable

If you are interested in being more involved in youth or already volunteer with youth, children, or families get connected with the Southeastern Iowa Synod Children Youth and Family Network email Rev. Dan Kuckuck