Our Saviour's Youth Page

S.O.S. means: Serving Our Saviour, Senior High Youth Group

2010-08-18T15:57:00.002-04:00

Youth Grades 9-12 meet for a monthly dinner on the first Wednesday of the month with Mary Cat and youth volunteers from the parish. This group of young people organizes around the desire to serve Christ by serving others. Through fellowship, group discussion, Bible study and reflection, this group joins hands and heart in service projects throughout the year. in 2010 we planned an alternative spring break mission trip to Washington D.C. Get in on the planning for what we might do in 2011! See you in church!

M3: What's happening with Middle School Youth?

2010-08-18T15:53:00.003-04:00

M3: Message Minded Middlers
This is the short name for our Middle School Youth Group at Our Saviour.
These young people meet monthly for Youth Group on the third Sunday of the month with volunteer youth leaders from the parish.
They also participate in retreats and service projects that provide assistance and care for the needs of God's children here in Rock Hill and around the world.
This fall M3 will participate in Rolling in Rock Hill, the CROPWALK and the Mission and Outreach fundraisers at ChristmasVille! Youth grades 6-8, get connected and get in community with M3 at Our Saviour!

Fall 2010 is upon us!

2010-08-18T15:45:00.002-04:00

Well folks,
I have to admit, I haven't been the best about keeping up this blogsite - however, I do continue to do my best to keep the activity schedule and posts relevant and current - so hopefully I'll do better this fall. Other places to keep up with what's happening with Our Saviour's youth includes: Facebook - yep, we have a youth page there, and a church page!, The Acorn - the parish newsletter is chock full of info every month!, and being in church for announcements and at events with other youth! If you aren't getting regular emails from me then I probably don't have your email address - so send me a message and you'll get regular reminders of what is on the horizon and when and where you need to be signed up for something!

I'm looking forward to another great fall, and am continually thankful for the help of volunteers, including:Andy Castillo, Ann Hackney, Ann Walton Townsend, Dudley Greene, Will Roberts, Elizabeth Stroup and Emily Faulks!

See y'all in church!
-MCY+

You're invited to: Youth Winter Retreat with Grace Lutheran Church Youth Groups

2009-11-03T16:06:00.003-05:00

The Dates: February 26-28, 2010

Youth grades 6-12 are invited to join together for a weekend retreat- a change to get away from the busy world of school and home, parents and cell phones, email and facebook - for a fun and faith-building weekend with Christian youth and their friends.

The Scoop: We will leave Friday afternoon to travel to Camp Lutherock in Newland, NC. We will stay in a retreat center where we will have community time, games, meals, worship and a day of play at Sugar Ski Resort. Youth of ALL LEVELS will be able to participate in skiing, snowboarding or snow tubing.

The Cost: The cost of this event will vary on what you wish to do and rent.
(Basic cost to attend: $150, Snowtube: $175, Ski: $200, + equipment rental and lessons if needed.)

$75 Deposit and Reservation Form are due to Virginia McLean by December 6, 2009. Contact Mary Cat with questions!

Fall 2009

2009-08-18T11:11:00.003-04:00

Well Folks,
We made it through yet another Summer of Service, with youth from our parish participating in Youth Mission Trips to Augusta, Georgia, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, and providing service and volunteer hours to five organizations all around Rock Hill!!! What a wonderful way to share our love and to be people of faith and action in the world around us.

Now it's time to get back into the swing of things as a new school year begins and new opportunties to grow together in community and Christ happen with Our Saviour's Youth!!!

This fall, Middle School Youth, grade 6-8 plan to join us on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month for youth group at Our Saviour! We'll meet 6:30-8 p.m. for fun, fellowship, service-learning, and faith development on these Worth-while Wednesdays! M3 Stands for Message Minded Middlers, so look for M3 for your youth community opportunities!

Senior High Youth, Grades 9-12, call ourselves: SOS, Serving Our Saviour! SOS meets on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month. Here we gather to check in, stay connected with our faith and find ways of practical application of the teachings of Jesus in the world around us. This fun and funky group will kick off the year with a Wednesday night out for dinner on August 19! Bring $5, and an appetite for food and curiosity to be fulfilled!

Diocesan Youth events and other fun activities are also on the horizon for youth of all ages -- including fundraising for summer 2010 mission activities! Don't miss the boat - be here for youth group on Wednesday nights, and stay connected with Our Savoiur's Youth!

Peace,

Mary Cat+

Summer 2009

2009-06-10T16:38:00.003-04:00

Hey Y'all,
Welcome to summer!

June is a busy month for Mary Cat and Our Saviour's Youth going from one Mission Trip to the next!

On Friday, June 12, Middle Schooler's from Our Saviour will head off to Augusta, Georgia where we'll join 90 Middle Schoolers from 8 other parishes to participate in Homeworks Jr. High Youth Mission Trip. This is the third year we have joined up with the Church of the Good Shepherd and the other groups to serve Christ by serving the needs of others in the Augusta area. We can look forward to painting, cleaning, and all kinds of hands on work that will show others our care for God's people in the world, and amaze even ourselves with all the Middle School youth are capable of!

On Monday, June 22, our Senior High Youth will gather with 35 other participants form the diocese, and members of 20 other diocese of the province to put our hands and hearts to work at Mission on the Bay, Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, providing continuing Gulf Coast relief work. Watch this blog for pictures, stories and updates on our travels.

Soon it will be July - and that means the next phase of our Summer of Service opportunities will begin! Summer of Service is a weekly service-learning program that gives youth from our community a look at the needs to be met and the organizations seeking to help meet those needs right here in the Rock Hill area. Check out upcoming dates for service sites, and sign up with Mary Cat for S.O.S. Summer of Service 2009: God's work, our hands!

Peace, MCY

YOUTH FELLOWSHIP EVENT!!!

2009-03-25T16:07:00.004-04:00

Hey y'all,

Sunday, March 29 has crept up on us - and do you know what that means?

We've got a gathering planned to just hang out and have fun together! So relax! No fund-raising, no projects to get done, just an afternoon of hanging out with Our Saviour's awesome youth, and working on your bowling game!

RSVP by contacting Mary Cat - and plan to meet at church at 1:00 p.m. on Sunday afternoon. We'll have snacks, drinks, laughs, and rental shoes! Should be a blast!

We return at 4:30 p.m.

Youth who have helped with our fundraisers & youth service days this year will get a $5 discount, for everyone else the cost is $10 per person.

Hope to see you all on Sunday!

Peace,
MC+

Youth Room Renovation Days - Day 1

2008-12-29T17:16:00.004-05:00

Remember the blank walls of the middle school youth room?

Well, we're putting some color on the walls!

Taking a little break, while Andy keeps plugging away!

Wendy Hope - our amazing artist in residence!

More pictures from the Cinnamon Roll Breakfast Fundraiser!

2008-11-29T18:25:00.005-05:00

First we cut the bread dough....

Lots, and lots of bread dough....

Then we roll it in cinnamon - mmm mmm!

Then we make the yummy, butter, sugar, cinnamon and other good stuff goop...

And dress the cinnamon rolls....

Don't forget the coffee....

Or to let the dough rise overnight...
And you've got a delicious youth fundraiser on your hands! Oh boy!

Cinnamon Roll Breakfast a huge success!

2008-11-24T17:12:00.007-05:00

Hey everyone -- we had a huge success on Sunday!
Our first ever youth-mission cinnamon roll breakfast fundraiser we served over 200 Cinnamon rolls, and raised over $450!

Not only that - but we took in several additional orders for dozens to go! That means that we do still have some work to do...

So, for those youth (and friendly helpful parental kitchen volunteers) please join with Mary Cat on Tuesday, November 25 at 6 p.m. for a follow-up cinnamon roll making party. It won't take long to prep. our pre-order pans, and for those who can stick around we'll have pizza for dinner. We should be done by 7:30 p.m. at the latest!

Hope you can be here Tuesday night we finish off the fundraiser wares -- and I hope you're looking forward to a repeat performance on Saturday, February 21-22 when we have our next Sr. High Youth lock-in and Cinnamon Roll breakfast fundraiser for youth mission!

Hey Everybody!

2008-11-14T14:56:00.001-05:00

Grace and Peace to you in the name of Our Lord Jesus Christ!

We’ve got quite a few things coming up in the next week – so take a peek below, and be in touch with me about what events I can expect your participation in. I look forward to seeing you all soon, especially now that we’re back in the beautifully restored church! See you in church! -MC

Youth Announcements

S.O.S. Youth to visit York Place Sunday! Gather at Our Saviour at 1:30 p.m. and return at 4:30 p.m. Youth grades 6-12 will meet and lead an afternoon of games and recreation with children ages 6-12 at York Place this afternoon.

Outdoor fun at Crowders Mountain, Saturday, Nov. 22! Our Saviour’s Youth grades 6-12 meet here at 1 p.m. on Saturday, November 22 for an afternoon outside hiking and at Crowders Mountain. Bring sunblock, layers for warm and cool weather, proper walking shoes and a sense of adventure! Don’t forget your water bottle! Youth will return at approximately 5 p.m. on Saturday afternoon. RSVP if you plan to attend by Wednesday, Nov. 19! All participants must have a signed parish permission slip for the 2008-2009 school year!

Sr. High Youth Lock-In, Saturday, Nov. 22! at 6 p.m. Sr. High Youth will gather for dinner and an evening of fun, fellowship and preparation for our Cinnamon Roll Youth Mission Fundraiser! RSVP if you plan to attend by Wednesday, Nov. 19! All participants must have a signed parish permission slip for the 2008-2009 school year! Youth who cannot attend Saturday night are needed to help with preparation, sales and clean-up on Sunday, Nov. 23! CRSVP if you plan to attend by Wednesday, Nov. 19! All participants must have a signed parish permission slip for the 2008-2009 school year!

Ecuador summer mission follow-up. Join us on Sunday, November 23 at 9:30 a.m. to hear Emily Horowitz share her summer experiences of living and working in Quito, Ecuador. Emily is a sophomore at Winthrop University and spent the summer working with the Episcopal Diocese of Ecuador in 2008.

There's still time to participate in the Crop Walk!

2008-10-16T13:31:00.001-04:00

Our October S.O.S. event is the CropWalk on Sunday, October 26th!

So far we have 7 youth from our Saviour signed up to raise funds and walk in solidarity with people who are hungry. If you and your family would like to sign up for the Crop Walk, please do so and pick up your envelope this Sunday, October 19! If you let me know that you plan to sign up, I will make sure you have a t-shirt!

If you can't participate in the walk, support someone who is! Contact Mary Cat for more about supporting walkers.

Here's the scoop:

We gather at 2:30 p.m. at Winthrop on the lawn of Dinkins Student Union (Oakland Avenue -- look for the crowd!)

The walk begins at 3 p.m.

Most of us are back by 4 p.m.

Lauren Winner and others are hosting a "tailgate" after teh walk - back at the parking lot at Dinkins -- drinks, fruit and cookies to refresh you after the walk!

Parents can meet us there for pick up (unless they decide to walk together with us as well!)

Jr. High Fall Retreat 2008

2008-09-29T17:27:00.004-04:00

What a weekend! 150 Middle School youth and youth ministers from parishes around the diocese gathered at Gravatt for the weekend.

Based on the scripture passage: Philippians 2:1-13 we faced challenges like, how to make God's joy complete, the importance of serving others before ourselves, the importance of being humble, and responding by faithful action to the knowledge that GOD IS AT WORK IN YOU!!!
We sang songs, ate great food, played games, saw hilarious skits, got to know each other in small groups, worked together on a building project for Gravatt, had fun at the dance, took pictures, went swimming, played games in the big field, had a campfire, prayed together, and played together. It really was a great retreat!

Watch here for more pictures, and don't miss your chance to sign up for the next Middle School or Sr. High Diocesan Youth Event.

Special thanks to Jessica Taylor - our DYLC member (she was on the design and leadership team for this event with Mary Cat and youth leaders from around the diocese). Thanks also to Andy Castillo and Kreg Steppe (this was his first DYE too!) our great youth volunteers.

Fall 2008 is off and running!

2008-09-09T17:22:00.002-04:00

Welcome back to school, and business as usual - that means Sunday school on at 9:30 a.m., and youth group and youth events on Sunday evenings! Be sure and watch this website for posts and updates on what's happening with Our Saviour's youth this fall. Some things to note today:

S.O.S. our Senior High Youth planning team for Sundays of Service has started meeting! Join us on the first Wednesday of the month at 6:30 p.m. -- and other Wednesday night's as needed (such as Wednesday, September 10!!!) to plan and lead service and outreach projects by/for/with the youth of Our Saviour!!!

Middle School Youth Group: This fellowship group meets on the first Sunday of the month here at our Saviour -- keep up to date on the progress of painting the youth room and come out for a time to get to know one another, and to grow together in Christ.

YCDC: For 10th grade youth and older, this is a discernment/preparation class for young people interested in confirmation and making a mature faith commitment to be active adults in the Episcopal Church! Sign up with Mary Cat for this group that meets monthly for meals, class and service opportunities.

Diocesan Youth Events: Not only can you meet youth from Our Saviour, but from all around the diocese! Join us for Sr. High and Jr. High Diocesan Youth Events - sometimes a weekend get away, other times day long events at Gravatt, Kanuga and eleswhere around the Diocese of Upper South Carolina!

Stay tuned and stay plugged in to Our Saviour's Youth Blog and the mission and ministry of Our Saviour's Youth!

Peace, MCE+

2008-08-20T15:59:00.003-04:00

Where will you be on Sunday, August 24th at 5:30 p.m.?

Hopefully meeting up with fellow youth (and their parents) after a long and busy summer! We've been spread out around Rock Hill, South Carolina and beyond! Now gather youth to learn about our upcoming gatherings for 2008-2009, meet your youth leaders and Our Saviour's youth!

See you here at 5:30 p.m., Sunday, August 24th -- snacks and treats provided!!!

Peace, MCE

S.O.S. - Feed the Hungry

2008-08-01T17:05:00.012-04:00

On Wednesday, July 30, youth met at the Church of Our Saviour for our final Summer of Service gathering. The Rev. Ronal King, founder of (Christians) Feed the Hungry - a local outreach and food ministry to people in Rock Hill met with us there. 100+ meal bags were prepared and distributed by youth and adults who came to pitch in.

Below you will find a youth perspective on the experience. For many of us it was a good day and a difficult day at the same time. It was difficult to see people right here in our community who struggle with poverty on a daily basis - and yet in the work that we did and in the people we met there were glimpses of hope for a better tomorrow, and our hearts were filled with compassion.

Love for all of God's people, and hope that we will continue to work toward a world where such polar opposite realities do not exist next door to one another -- these were both important lessons and a fitting end to our Summer of Service 2008. Look for more stories and reflections from youth participants in the September Acorn and here on this blog. Peace, MCE+

A reflection from Chris Costley, 7th grade.

Having The Rev. Ron King come to The Church Of Our Saviour was a great experience for me personally. He showed me something that I will never forget. I was very moved by the courage and hope of some of these people who don't have what we take for granted. One person especially, Mama, would take in anybody that came to her door. At night, she has to pin her money to her shirt so the people staying at her house wouldn't steal it. These people might not have A/C or electric stoves, but they do have courage. Amen.

Homeworks 2008 Mission Trip

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Mary Cat, Nick and Chris Costley and Andy Castillo gave a presentation on their experiences on the Homeworks 2008 Mission Trip.

Here's a slideshow from the trip and slides from the the powerpoint presentation that was given.

IHN Center visit, dinner and games!

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Our Saviour's youth outside of Interfaith Hospitality Network.

Check out pictures from our evening and return to read reflections from youth about our experiences visiting the IHN center and providing dinner and hospitality to the families staying at Our Saviour this week.

Angie Zoubian and Alison Taylor organized our taco/enchilada bar and ice cream sundae bar!

Pat Murray, our IHN parish leader, Andy Castillo and Kathryn Coady helped keep our youth on task as we chopped, cooked, and set the table for our meal together!

Thanks adult volunteers and parents and youth for your food and time donations!

Lot's to do!

MMM MMM Taco meat!

Beached whale?

I get it - we're playing Ships and Sailors -- Captain (Andy)'s coming!

Summer of Service - a youth perspective on our visit to Pilgrim's Inn

2008-07-08T11:15:00.004-04:00

Hope and Healing found at Pilgrim's Inn
by Meg McGill

Many people know of Rock Hill's Pilgrim's Inn. Many people know of the food bank located at Pilgrim's Inn. Many people know how much support Pilgrim's Inn gives to the community. But not many people understand the amount of support Pilgrim's Inn gives to Rock Hill. The staff gives their hearts and souls to helping the people who come to them for help. Pilgrim's Inn is not simply a food bank. It is a day care for working families, there is a shelter for women and children. Pilgrim's Inn also works closely with the Department of Mental Health.
I went there for the first time with some of the members of the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour's youth group. It was a slightly overcast day and our group was small. But we had a mission. Our mission was pretty simple, learn about Pilgrim's Inn and do a small service project. Learning about the organization was the best part of the trip. Cleaning up the children's playground for them was the most satisfying part. It amazes me each time it happens but the best type of work, the most satisfying work, the work that makes a worker happy is the work that helps others. I enjoyed the few hours I spent at Pilgrim's Inn. It showed me that people will perpetually look after one another. It is a good cause, a worthy organization. I say to you that you should stop by one day for a chat and a tour. I can say from experience that it's an eye opener.
So in the small building in the middle of Rock Hill right off of Main Street, you can find Pilgrim's Inn, a place of hope, healing, and happiness that relies on the support of the community.

Meg McGill is a Junior at South Pointe High School. She is active in the choir and several other ministries at the Episcopal Church of Our Saviour and was Confirmed in April 2008.

Visit York Place with us!

2008-06-17T14:33:00.002-04:00

Last week we had an incredible tour of Pilgrim's Inn and the many ministries that they participate in.

Tomorrow, Wednesday, June 18, we'll visit York Place - Episcopal Home for Children.

York Place is supported by both the Diocese of South Carolina, the Diocese of Upper South Carolina, our parish, and many, many other individuals.

Meet at Our Saviour at 3:30 p.m. and plan to be picked up at 6:30 p.m.

We will spend part of our time touring and learning about the ministry at York Place and talking with volunteers and staff. We will also spend time helping them prepare a special project for some of the residents there.

I hope you can join us!

S.O.S. starts this week!

2008-06-09T13:25:00.003-04:00

Join Our Saviour's Youth grades 6-12 in June and July for S.O.S.

This Wednesday we make our first service-learning site visit to Pilgrim's Inn, an outreach ministry to those in our community in need of emergency assistance. Our Saviour provides financial donations and canned goods to this organization year-round. What else is Pilgrim's Inn up to? How might we continue to help or expand our ministry partnership with Pilgrim's Inn?

Meet at our Saviour on Wednesday, June 11 at 3:45 p.m. to find out more about Pilgrim's Inn. Bring a rake and work gloves for a hands on help that we will provide during our site visit.

Parent's please pick up your youth at Pilgrim's Inn: 236 W. Main Street at 6 p.m.

Youth who do not have a 2008-2009 permission slip turned in to Mary Cat, please bring one along with you. See you Wednesday!

-MC

Our Saviour goes to the movies!

2008-05-07T15:04:00.003-04:00

Join the parish family for an afternoon at the movies -
Sunday, May 18 @3:45 p.m., Manchester Theater.

Prince Caspian is the second film in the Chronicles of Narnia series based on the novels by C. S. Lewis. RSVP with Mary Cat to pre-purchase tickets, or pick them up yourself at the movie theater. Stick around afterwards for a slice of Fuel Pizza or a burrito at Moe's and join in conversation about faith and film! See you at the movies!

2008-04-30T16:06:00.006-04:00

Communion, canoeing, community!

New Beginnings was a great opportunity for several youth from our parish to join over 120 youth and adults from around the diocese for a weekend of fellowship, fun, talks, outdoor games, praying together, playing together, singing and awesome family group time!

Thanks to the Diocesan Youth Leadership Team and other youth leaders from around Upper South Carolina for providing this renewal weekend for our young people! Check back here for comments and quotes from Our Saviour's Youth Participants: Brett, Jessica, Chris, Andy and MC! And mark your calendars NOW for the fall Jr. High Youth Retreat - September 26-28! See you at Gravatt!

Half way through spring break!

2008-04-09T08:39:00.003-04:00

Hey y'all,

I hope you're enjoying your spring break - whether relaxing at home, or on adventures with Mom, Dad, friends, other...

Unfortunately for me, I'm home sick! (Not homesick - I've been home twice in the past month)
BUT, that doesn't mean we won't be getting together for Middle School Youth group on Sunday!

So, M3 -- gather at Our Saviour on Sunday, April 13, 6:30-8 pm -- we've got "Our Saviour's Mission and Ministry Game" to finish up!

Sr. High youth -- we're on for a movie night - Sunday, April 20th 6-8:30 pm. Andy Castillo is hosting our movie night for Juno, with popcorn & theology provided -- bring your own favorite movie beverage.

For more information on these and other upcoming events, contact Mary Cat by email (keeping a safe distance from the germs I'm hosting at the moment!)

Peace, MCE

A note from Mary Cat:

2008-03-08T23:11:00.000-05:00

A note from Mary Cat:

During the month of March I will be out of town visiting family and friends on two separate occasions.

Friday March 14-Tuesday, March 18th I will be with family in South Dakota for a family funeral.

Wednesday, March 26-Tuesday, April 1 I will be on a previously planned vacation.

Please note—I will not be attending the Youth Service Day or the Youth Laser Quest trip. Please contact the Adult volunteers who are coordinating these events, and have fun working and playing together! Holy Lent & Happy Easter!

National Youth Service Day!

2008-03-08T23:10:00.000-05:00

National Youth Service Day is Saturday, March 29th

Youth who would like to give their time and talent (and receive a free t-shirt and pizza lunch) should contact Sheree Welsh ASAP!

Sheree will be organizing work projects around the parish that require your hands on assistance!

If you plan to participate in this gathering on the afternoon of Saturday, March 29th —sign up in the parish hall or call Sheree by Sunday, March 16th.

Participants gather at the pavilion in Cherry Park at 12 pm for lunch and t-shirt pick-up before returning to Our Saviour at 1 p.m. Parent volunteers and leaders are also invited to contribute to this Saturday of service.

Okay y’all, JUST FOR FUN!!!

2008-03-08T23:05:00.001-05:00

Okay y’all, JUST FOR FUN!!!

On Sunday, March 30th youth grades 6-12 are invited to join Andy Castillo, and your other youth leaders for an afternoon adventure of Laser Quest in Charlotte, NC.

Youth will gather at Our Saviour at 2:30 p.m.and return at approximately 5:30 p.m. for dinner in the fellowship hall. RSVP for this event with Andy Castillo by SUNDAY, MARCH 23 to participate in this event.

Cost: $15 per person—this includes 2 games of tag and dinner.

Permission Slips are required to attend this event.

Parent volunteers who can host the dinner, or want to help as drivers—please contact Andy by Sunday, March 16th.

DYLTC: Registration Deadline, Friday, January 25!

2008-01-23T13:55:00.000-05:00

Hot on the heels of our return from West Virginia – Senior High Youth, Confirmation Class participants and those starting the class next fall – Please let me know ASAP if you would like to register for this Diocesan Youth Event! Read about the excellent program and reply to this message if you would like to attend! Remember – scholarship money is always available to defray the cost of youth events. Do not let the cost be a factor in your decision here! Looking forward to hearing from you – MCE

Please be advised that the deadline for DYLTC 2008 is this Friday, January 25th. See below for more information. Also, please remember to eat before you arrive on Friday night, dress appropriate for weather at Kanuga, and you might want to bring a large towel and/or an extra blanket.

DYLTC 2008

Senior High Youth Event, grades 9-12
February 8-10, 2008
Camp Bob, Kanuga – Hendersonville, NC

“I will instruct you and teach you in the way that you should go” Ps. 32:9

The Diocesan Youth Leadership Training Conference will feature our diocesan missionaries in Ecuador, Cameron Graham Vivanco and Roberto Vivanco and focus on the intersection of Leadership and Mission. Roberto will be leading and sharing his amazing musical gifts and Cameron will lead our program sessions. These four programs times will guide us through four areas – call, learning, leadership and vision – and will give young people “the basics” of creating mission and outreach experiences that have the hope of sustaining relationships and growth for all. This event will be particularly helpful for youth who are expecting to be involved in mission experiences this summer.

The event begins on Friday evening with registration at 7:00 pm and program at 8:00 pm. All participants should eat dinner before arriving. We will conclude our event on Sunday following lunch which is scheduled for 12:30 pm. Camp Bob provides towels and bed linens, however, some young people find it helpful to bring larger towels and an extra blanket or sleeping bag. We will be spending some time outside, so please plan on appropriate clothing for February in NC.

The cost for the event is $75.00, 1/3 of which is due at the time of the registration deadline of January 25th. This is when the Congregational Registration Form** is also due. The remainder of the registration fee and Individual Registration Forms, for all participants – youth and adult, are due at the event registration.

Have you ever heard so many ways to address or call God?

2007-11-19T17:14:00.000-05:00

Shepherd

Sun of righteousness
Heavenly King
Father of Our Lord Jesus Christ
Holy FatherGiver of Life
Everliving God
Alpha and Omega
Father
Son
Holy Spirit
Redeemer and Friend
Almighty
Saviour
Messiah
Gracious God
Merciful Father
Kyrie Eleison
Light
The Way
Blessed Body and Blood
Prince of Peace
Lamb
Yo
Lord of Lords
Abba
Yahweh
Beginning and End
Christ

On Saturday, November 3, the Church of Our Saviour held a silent prayer vigil from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Members of the parish came as individuals, and in small groups to pray for the needs of our community, keeping vigil, keeping watch in the church building. At 12 noon on Saturday, there were several adventurous folk from the youth and Canterbury groups who gathered for a “loud” hour – providing a space for those who might not be able to pray silently for an hour, but wanted to participate in the vigil.

Our first action as a group gathered was to pray aloud all the names and addresses we could think of to give to God. When you pray you begin by greeting God. The names and titles listed above show the variety of names with which we address God in our personal and community prayer life (thanks to the BCP for some of the more formal titles!) With what name do you address God when you pray?

We also prayed over the names of Happening candidates, participating in the weekend retreat at that very moment, the prayer concerns that had been given to us for prayer during the vigil, our loved ones, our enemies and ourselves. One other way of praying that we tried on as a gathered community involved writing our own hymn! It was easier than you might think! All we had to do was come up with 14 2-syllable words (or a few 3 syllable phrases) and we sand these words to the tune of Amazing Grace. Would you like to see our hymn? Check it out:

Lovely, father, playful, caring, a joyful melody…
Peaceful, prayerful, enduring, strong, a bonding family.

Thanks to those who came out for the vigil and stayed for a little home-made chili lunch! We hope you can join us next time we gather for a prayer vigil – either silently, or aloud!

Pictures!

2007-11-16T17:18:00.000-05:00

Visit the COS website to view pictures from our recent get togethers!
A new album called "Our Saviour's Youth" has pictures from our recent lock-in. You can also see new pictures in the album "Special Parish Activities" from the Halloween party. Thanks for participating in these fun events, and for your helping hands in providing fun for our parish family!

Our Saviour's Youth Rock!

SKI TRIP INFO & REGISTRATION!!!

2007-11-14T14:39:00.000-05:00

THE EPISCOPAL CHURCH OF OUR SAVIOUR'S
ANNUAL YOUTH SKI TRIP

What you need to know!

WHO:

Our Saviour’s Youth and their friends – This trip is open to youth grades 6-12.

DATES/ITINERARY:

Saturday, Jan. 19, 2007: Travel to Watoga State Park, Marlinton, WV. Check it out at: (http://www.watoga.com) (Located approximately 5 hours driving distance from Rock Hill, SC.) Group games, activities, meals and worship will take place on Saturday afternoon and evening.

Sunday, Jan. 20, 2007: Ski all day at Snowshoe Ski Resort (www.snowshoemtn.com/) (Located approximately 1 hour driving distance from Watoga). Participants will bring their own lunch for the day (fixin’s provided) and have dinner and evening ski options on Sunday night.

Monday, Jan. 21, 2007: Return to Rock Hill (No School) – After a hearty breakfast we’ll hit the road in the morning and have lunch on the way home. As needed, calls will be made when passing through Charlotte – ETA: 3:30 pm.

EXPENSES:

Youth Cost: $130.00 for youth 12 and under, $150 for youth 13 and older

Includes: lift ticket, ski equipment rental, lodging for 2 nights, transportation, and all meals. Youth who do not need to rent will have a reduced cost.

Add On Costs:

* Lessons required for first time skiers: $39 (reduced to $27 if group is 10+)

* If you wish to snowboard rental is $11 additional to the cost.

* Rental of warm weather gear if a possibility. Participants should be prepared with waterproof gloves, jackets, snowpants (or ski pants) warm socks and appropriate warm layers (scarves, hats, etc.) Jeans are NOT recommended for skiing – warm sweats or thermal pants are encouraged for under layers.

DEADLINES:

Monday, November 19: All participants must submit a $50.00 deposit with their reservation form.

Guest applications will be considered based on date turned in, and space available, with preference for Our Saviour’s Youth who register on-time.

Monday, December 17: All participants must turn in your Individual Registration Form with FINAL PAYMENT IN FULL.

There will be a Non-Refundable $25.00 for cancellations made after December 17!

Afterthoughts on 24

2007-10-29T11:01:00.000-04:00

The following message is from Amy Welsh, a senior and an active participant in Our Saviour's Youth Ministry. Amy will be attending Happening #58 this weekend, please keep her in your prayers! -MC

hey everyone!
this is amy welsh! i went on the camp gravatt retreat oct.20th-oct.21. it was amazing! we got to meet new church groups and bond with them over a period of 24 hours! we got to play games and do fun group building activities! the topic of the weekend was questioning our faith in GOD. it was a tough one for some of us there, but we all got through it as a group. with the support of marycat, megan, and will we all got through it together as a family! i just wanted to thank you marycat for taking us last weekend!

it was a BLAST!

<3 amy

November Events!

2007-10-22T19:12:00.000-04:00

Youth Lock-In and overnight at Our Saviour

WHEN? Saturday, November 10, 5 p.m. to Sunday, November 11, 12 p.m.

WHAT? Youth Lock-in: Join us Saturday night for goofy games, memorable moments, stupendous snacking and artistic expression (paint brushes may be involved!) and the chance to connect with your faithful friends here at Our Saviour.

The plan: Saturday night: Gather for dinner, youth room art project(s), games and recreation, movie (optional), lights out!!!

Sunday: Our Saviour’s youth will provide Coffee Hour treats for the 8 am service, enjoy breakfast together (during the usual Sunday School hour) and attend the 10:30 am service with their families. Youth who are unable to join us for the overnight may sign up to join us for breakfast—please RSVP with Mary Cat.

WHO? Youth Grades 6-12 and their friendly (and brave) youth ministers!

RSVP with Mary Cat for this event by Wednesday, November 7.

Youth Group Movie Night, Sunday, November 25

Enjoy your Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends, get your homework done early, and join us Sunday evening for a movie night and discussion. Popcorn and Theology provided!

2007-10-22T19:09:00.000-04:00

Mary Cat, Meghan, Will and Amy, pictured above, had a great time at "24" the Sr. High Diocesan Youth Event held at Camp Gravatt, October 20-21.

24 was "24 hours of youth and youth ministers talking about their faith, their doubt, their issues, and their lives. Watch here for an article from one of our participants about their experience at "24."

Youth Updates!!!

2007-10-17T14:05:00.000-04:00

Well folks, we're halfway through October and there are lots of events and gatherings on the horizon!

1) Saturday, October 20-21, I'll be traveling to Camp Gravatt once again for a Senior High Youth event with several members of the parish. Check back here next week for pics and more on how the event was!

2) Sunday, October 21, CropWalk - walkers gather at Winthrop at 2:30 pm and will enjoy refreshments at a tail-gating party at the COS parking lot after the walk. Good luck to our walkers and thanks for your commitment to fighting hunger by getting involved and getting your community involved! Keep up the good work/walk! Support the Middle School and Sr. High Youth who've signed up with donations and/or by signing up to walk yourself!

3) Sunday, October 28, Halloween helpers and Game Night! Our Saviour Youth have been asked to help put on the EKG (Episcopal Kids Group) Halloween Party/carnival this Sunday (5-6:30 pm.) Contact Mary Cat and/or Judy Rauppius or Rachel Hubbard to sign up to help out at this event.
Stick around for our very own youth group Halloween Game Night (6:30-8 pm)- where we get to play together for prizes, candy and don't forget to come dressed for the costume contest!

I look forward to seeing y'all at these upcoming events! More next week on upcoming events including: participation in a prayer vigil, Saturday, November 3, the youth lock-in November 10-11, and the Ski trip (January 19-22)!

Peace, MCE

Jr. High Fall Retreat: Fight the Good Fight of Faith

2007-10-02T10:07:00.000-04:00

Gathering in the parking lot of the Church of Our Saviour on Friday afternoon, there were 9 youth and 2 adults pumped for the drive to the Bishop Gravatt Camp and Conference Center for the Jr. High Diocesan Fall Retreat. We joined over 150 youth from around the Diocese of Upper South Carolina for a weekend of singing, laughing, getting to know each other and building our faith in community.

The theme of the weekend, "Faith Builders: Fight the Good Fight of Faith" was inspired from the lectionary reading for the weekend, 1 Timothy 6:11-19. On Friday night we watched Facing the Giants, a movie about a high school football coach whose faith life was challenged in many ways. Finding inspiration form scripture, to honor God in all that he did, this coach inspired the faith lives of his team members. They would offer all that they had to God, and praise God in their triumph and in their defeats.

Reminding us of the story of David and Goliath, as the Eagles football team faced off with a strong and seemingly undefeatable opponent, the Giants, this team offered their best to the glory of God and allowed great things to be shown through them, a most unexpected vessel.

Our youth participants spent time in small groups discussing the film, participated in an obstacle course that challenged them to work in community to overcome obstacles such as those we face in our faith lives, and created sculpters made of wood blocks representing the faith builders that support and encourage us in our journey of faith together.

We also enjoyed activities including swimming, playing football, ping pong, 4 square, basketball, making music, dancing ("ice cream and cake and cake") and enjoying the beauty of God's creation at beautiful Camp Gravatt.

Some comments from our participants are included below. Be sure and check back for more pictures from the event and put the New Beginnings dates on your calendar today: April 25-27!

"I met a lot of new people. I made new friends and people I already knew became closer."

"I made new friends, learned a lot of new things and played a lot of four square. I liked cruising too - that was another opportunity to meet new people. Other than the cold weather at night, I had a lot of fun!"

"I liked the dog who popped footballs. I also liked tearing up the dancefloor with my awesome moves!"
"I danced with a girl at the dance!"

"I liked playing ping pong"

"I liked walking around to do different things outside the scheduled activities"

"I had a blast!!! The dance was sooo fun! I made good friends!"

"I liked all of the activities and liked making new friends!"

Gracious God,
we give thanks and praise to you for the time to grow together in community! You've inspired us to allow your presence in all aspects of our lives, remembering to give you glory when we win and when we lose. Your presence and your care for us is immeasurable, and as we live and share your love we are given the knowledge that with God, nothing is impossible! Amen.

Jr. High Fall Retreat pics!

2007-10-01T17:28:00.000-04:00

Visit the church website for pictures from our weekend at Gravatt! Check back here later this week for comments, quotes and stories from participants in the Jr. High Diocesan Fall Retreat!

http://www.mychurchphotos.com/AlbumPhotos.aspx?id=217&album=2030441

2007-09-17T16:50:00.001-04:00

Sr. High Seekers to host IHN dinner!

On Sunday, September 23, Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN), our ministry with homeless families here in Rock Hill, will come to Our Saviour. Help plan and prepare a meal for these families by connecting with fellow youth and your youth volunteers. Be here on Sunday at 5:30 pm to help set up, & serve dinner at 6:30 pm. We’ll eat too and have a short gathering afterwards to discuss the experience and other ways that we’d like to serve our community through mission and service opportunities. Please plan to be here from 5:30 – 8 pm if you are assisting with supper. Latecomers are welcome, but we do have a commitment to provide the meal. Contact Will and April Roberts with questions about how you can help: wroberts@chmuseums.org

2007-09-17T16:50:00.000-04:00

Prepare yourself - the fall is going to be very busy. Many demands will be placed on you and your time. Just when it all gets to be too much, maybe you ought to think aout getting away. Maybe you need to prepare for this now, and sign up for the Sr. High Fall gathering - "24" - October 20-21.

This 24 Hour get-together will take place at Gravatt our diocesanCamp & Conference center near Aiken, SC. Sign up using a diocesan registration form, and get your forms and $50 registration fee in to Mary Cat by Wed., October 3.
Read more about the event from a youth perspective at: http://www.edusc.org/Youth/Diocesan%20Youth%20Events/SrHighEvents.shtml

Just click it! And sign up to join in the fun!

2007-09-07T14:01:00.000-04:00

JR. HIGH FALL RETREAT, September 28-30 at Camp Gravatt
Sign up for this event with Mary Cat by Wednesday, September 12

Read about this event below from the perspective of a youth on the design team!

By: Brandon Kerr, JHFR Design Team and

If you’re looking for a good time and you are in grades 6-8 grade, than the Jr. High Fall Retreat is just the place for you. The event will take place from Friday, September 28 through Sunday, September 30 and it is a great way to meet cool people, strengthen your faith, and just have fun. This year’s theme is “The Good Fight of Faith” will be explored using the scriptures from our Sunday lectionary through games, talks, small groups, and craft projects. There will be lots of time for just having fun at Gravatt. Youth and their adult leaders will be lead by members of the Diocesan Youth Leadership Committee.

The event will begin on Friday evening with registration beginning at 6:00 pm with dinner at 7:00pm. We will conclude with lunch on Sunday which will begin at 12:00 noon. Things to bring include: Sleeping Bag and Pillow, towel, casual clothes, swim suit, sunscreen and bug spray, and toiletries. PLEASE remember that nights at Gravatt in the fall can be very cold – so be sure to have a warm sleeping bag and/or bring an extra blanket. Also be prepared to be outside no matter what the weather – so bring appropriate clothes and shoes.

2007-09-06T11:26:00.000-04:00

Hey gang! Sunday, August 19th we had our kick-off youth group gathering. There were 23 Middle School & Sr. High youth who came out for a chance to meet each other, play games, plan some good stuff for the coming year, and have some pizza and laughs to top off the evening.

Thanks to your new teachers for showing up: M3: Andy Castillo, and Sr. High Seekers: Will & April Roberts and Ann Walton & Bryan Townsend.

Can't wait to see you in Sunday school and for our next gatherings!

Stay connected right here on the Our Saviour Youth Blogspot!

Peace, MC+

2007-08-02T17:03:00.001-04:00

DYLC? What's that?

The Rev. Mary Cat Enockson has been invited to participate in the Diocesan Youth Leadership Committee - a group of teens and youth ministers who plan events for Episcopal youth in the Diocese of Upper South Carolina.

This fall we will host two Diocesan Youth Events!

For Middle Schoolers, The Jr. High Fall Retreat will take place September 28 - 30 at beloved Gravatt Camp & Conference Center! Middle school youth will need to register for this event with Mary Cat by Wednesday September 12, or with the diocesan offices by Friday, September 14th in order to attend!

Sr. High Youth are invited to attend a "24" hour event at Gravatt Camp & Conference Center October 20-21. Based on the popular show 24, the theme for this event will challenge youth to consider the question, "Where is God in my everyday life?"
Registration deadlines for this event: Wednesday October 3 with Mary Cat, Friday, October 5 with the diocese.

Check out Diocesan Youth Ministry - "Youth led, and Youth fed!"

Peace, MC+

2007-06-28T15:16:00.000-04:00

See more photos of our trip at this photo album

2007-06-20T00:18:00.000-04:00

2007-06-03T16:02:00.000-04:00

On Friday, June 1, 7 members of the Church of Our Saviour community joined up with 83 other volunteer youth and adult participants in the 2007 Homeworks Jr. High Mission session.

Youth Groups from seven Episcopal parishes gathered at the Church of the Good Shepherd in Augusta, Georgia with ready hands and hearts to be put to work, saying, "Here I am Lord, send me."

All of the youth were split into work groups that were assigned different tasks. Most of our group worked at the Heritage School, a Christian school that was founded in 2000 to give a helping hand to youth in lower income areas, to provide educational support through grade 5. The school recently acquired an old school building and is completely renovating it from the inside out with the help of volunteer teams and benefactors.

Our youth were put to work scraping paint from window sills and cleaning 188 windows, inside and out! Some youth did yard work, pulling weeds, trimming hedges, mowing grass and generally improving the outside appearance of the facility. Other youth worked hard sanding down door frames and molding so that years and years of paint layers could receive a fresh coat of paint for the new school year.

Still other youth were put to work moving desks and furniture, getting things organized for the soon to be finished classrooms.

Each task and project was diligently attacked by the work groups. Stories, songs, games and conversation were used to pass the time. We worked hard our fist day! A few of the youth even wrote a song to the tune of The Lion Sleeps Tonight to capture the experience!

2007-06-01T13:33:00.000-04:00

Going on a Mission Trip!

Today is June 1st, and 7 members of the Church of Our Saviour are heading to Augusta, Georgia on a Jr. High Mission Trip! We will join up wiht 90 other youth and adults at the Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal Church. There we will work at several work sites in the Augusta area with a group called Homeworks - a Christian mission organization that puts youth groups to work in communities around the Southeast.

Please pray for David, Joseph, Jessica, Ellen, Murphy, Andy and Mary Cat, and look for updates, reports and pictures about our mission experiences right here on our blogspot!

We'll be back June 5th, and look forward to telling the story of our adventure, and our hands and hearts being put to work in the name of Christ!

Peace, MCE

2007-05-22T17:30:00.000-04:00

2007-05-21T15:36:00.000-04:00

New Acolyte Training

On Saturday, June 16 from 10 am -12 pm

· New acolytes arrive at 10 am

· Returning acolytes arrive at 11:15 am

· Those that can, stay for lunch at 12 pm

Additional training opportunities will be available as needed for those who cannot attend.

Please RSVP if you will be able to attend this training. Contact Mary Cat by Thurs. June 14.

2007-05-21T15:30:00.001-04:00

School is out for summer and many of your calendars are filled with exciting trips, and adventures. Getaways to the beach or the mountains, visits with family and friends around the country, participation in various camps as campers, athletes, musicians and volunteers… Summer jobs will also quickly take up their stake in your time and day to day lives over the next few months. Soon, the three months of freedom from school and books will be so booked up that you might not even think to take the time to breathe, relax, enjoy the sun, enjoy the beauty of all that surrounds you, enjoy the opportunity and the freedom to be out in the world every day.

As the summer and the plans for it begin to take hold of your life and time,

I encourage you to encounter each day with an awareness that God is present in the midst of all that you are doing. Ask yourself—where do I see God at work in my life? What am I doing to reflect the love of Christ each day this summer? No matter where you are, or what you are up to, you can be a bright and shining reflection of the SON in the world! Have a great summer! And share your stories and adventures along the way!

2007-05-10T16:28:00.000-04:00

2007-05-10T16:18:00.000-04:00

Hey folks!

Well it has been an awfully long time since I put up my first post on this site - so I hope I don't let as much time fly by before I post on here again!

It's that time of year where graduating seniors start to make their plans to move on from this place, out into the big wide world, and 5th graders are getting ready to venture toward Middle School! Lots of changes will take lace in teh next few weeks and months after graduation and a summer of vacation, fun, programs, camps, mission trips and more!

One of the changes that is due is the "changing of the guard" when it comes to acolytes.

It's time for new folks to get trained in as torches, and for returning acolytes to learn how to be crucifers and team leaders! If you are thinking about becoming an acolyte, be sure and contact Mary Cat at the church office! It is an important role in worship leadership and a great gift to the church to have committed and well trained acolytes participate in the service each week. Acolytes also help with special services on occasion, such as: weddings, bishop's visitations, even the occasional ordination!

If you want to know more, sign up and get the behind the scenes tour of worship life in the Episcopal Church!

Peace, The Rev. Mary Cat

2006-10-03T13:06:00.000-04:00

A shot from the dance, Our Saviour's ladies gettin' down!

2006-10-02T12:39:00.000-04:00

On Friday, September 29, 9 members of COOS set off for the Diocesan Jr. High Fall Retreat, once we got the van started (thanks Mark Boland for the jump start!) We picked up our 10th group member in Columbia and were on our way to Gravatt Camp and Conference Center near Aiken, SC. Daniel , Rebecca , Josie , Sarah Ann , Sarkis , Jessica , Olivia , Andy & Mary Cat attended this event along with ___ youth from ____ parishes around the diocese. Some familiar camp songs and riddles kept us laughing along the way and we were welcomed to our weekend in the wilderness by the bumpy, but beautiful dirt road we followed into the campground.

On Friday night we were introduced to the theme of the weekend LIVE, LOVE and SERVE!

How we live our lives and the choices we make maters – from the smallest day to day things, to the big questions and issues of life. The love that we have received from God through Jesus is one that makes us holy and whole, not (holey like in your socks, but complete, like a circle.) And in response to the that love we can serve God by serving others.

On Saturday morning we spent time in our small groups where we prepared and performed a skit about the difference between living your life for yourself and living your life for God. That afternoon we worked on a craft project. Each person put together a heart shaped puzzle that they could decorate with the six or more pieces of their identity that makes them up as a whole.

Our guest speaker on Saturday night, Michael Lee of Columbia is the director of a shelter that has been serving the homeless for he last (x) years. While telling the story of his work, providing basic shelter for people living on the street during the coldest nights of the year (November – March), he received a real phone call from a woman and her children who needed a place to stay on Saturday night. The message really hit home as the group responded with questions and concerns about the people, not only in Columbia, but in each of the communities represented at this diocesan youth event.

That evening, in response to the needs of the people seeking shelter from Mike, we each prepared a bag of some basic toiletries, including: a new toothbrush, shampoo, tissues, soap, and deodorant. The bag also included a special prayer card written by each individual youth to whoever the recipient of this bag would be. The time that we spent listening to the stories of those who are in need, and the simple act of putting together a bag of necessities, seemed very small. But it opened the hearts, and minds of the participants of this event. For each bag that was made, a reflection of love will also shine upon its recipient.

The following morning the youth had the opportunity to share some of their reflections from the weekend and several members of our group spoke about what they had learned. Below are some of the written comments and memories from this great weekend that were collected on the way home to Rock Hill.

In addition to all that we learned, the weekend was punctuated with great music and singing led by Jamey ___ of Wilmington, NC. There were also relay races and other large group games. Some of us played cards, ping pong, foosball, soccer, met the camp dogs, made new friends, jokes, dances and laughs. The design team entertained us with a rendition of “Whose Line is it Anyway?” there was a dance and a great campfire down by the waterfront. Prayer and worship were also important parts of the weekend, including Compline by firelight and Eucharist on Sunday morning at the outdoor chapel. The great gift of getting out of our everyday normalcy and into the woods together allowed us to build Christian community and just relax on great Gravatt grounds.

Thank you God for the gift of getting to know, and love one another through you! Inspire us to remember what we learned and to act on the gifts that you have given us as we Live, Love and Serve your will in our daily lives! Amen.

“Camp Gravatt was a very fun experience. One of my favorite things was chasing the dog until I almost passed out. I can’t remember anything else.” Sarkis, Grade 6

“I had a great time this weekend! My favorite part was the songs and music! I really liked that because of all the motions. Cruising** was cool too. Other awesome things were the dance and the bon-fire. I think the phrase of the weekend would definitely be from Mary Cat, “Is that snow on the ground?” I would really like to go on another retreat at Gravatt, (even if it is cold).” - Anna Grade 7

I had an awesome time this weekend! I made lots of new friends and learned lots of songs. Even though it was cold, I had fun playing games and doing skits. I learned how I can serve and help other people in the community. I’m very excited about New Beginnings!” --Jessica, Grade 7

“I really loved the weekend – it was a really moving experience. I made so many new friends friends it was just so much fun. I’m so excited about New Beginnings. Gravett was and still is a life changing experience. We learned about how many people don’t have a home and freeze to death. I look at things from a different perspective now.”
--Josie Grade 7

“This retreat has really opened up my eyes. It helped me see how we can serve others to the highest extent. It also taught me how to live for God and not just for me. We had a crazy time. While we were at Gravatt, such as Andy gracefully falling over the soccer ball and Mary Cat seeking “snow.” I really enjoyed this retreat and I hope we can go to New Beginnings*. Thanks to Mary Cat and Andy. I had a blast.” – Rebecca , grade 8

“This weekend at Gravatt really made me aware of how much a single person can do to help people. This weekend I saw a lot of examples of how to live my life for God. I can’t wait to get home and express what I’ve learned through my life and become a better person.” – Olivia , grade 8

* New Beginnings: Jr. High DYE at Gravatt, April 22-22, 2007
** “Cruising:” the Gravatt word for serving and busing the tables at meal time.