Saturday, June 29
Page 3

Senior high youth have come to Annual Conference in droves this year, bringing energy and spiritual insights into the midst of the event.

A few are delegates for their congregations; others are children of delegates or board members, some have come to hear a particular speaker, and some for the experience of being here.

One youth says, "[Conference] makes me happy to be Brethren," and another "[Conference] is an important part of being Brethren, and I wanted to hear and understand others' points of view on some of this year's business items."

Those with previous Conference experience say their favorite parts include the ice cream, the chance to meet with Brethren youth from across the country, and the worship service. Carrie Fry-Miller of Fort Wayne, Ind., wants to "dance, sing, and get funky for God."

Most of the youth are looking forward to National Youth Conference in July. To prepare, they have been studying scripture and other books on Christianity.

Kyle Gauby credits his recent work trip in West Virginia as a source of spiritual growth. "I painted houses and worked with little kids," he said. "It helped me to have a service heart."

The youth anticipate the chance to fellowship and learn about God in the Rockies. Hopefully, their experiences at both Conferences will lead to the deeper relationships with God that so many seek.

- Carol Guess