Youth 2007 expected to draw 10,000 young people

More than 10,000 United Methodist youth from across the world are expected to converge on the Greensboro (N.C.) Coliseum and Koury Convention Center for Youth 2007, the largest quadrennial youth event of the United Methodist Church.

The July 11-15, 2007, event will give youth an opportunity to experience God in a multitude of ministry, cultural and spiritual opportunities. Sponsored by the Division on Ministries with Young People at the United Methodist Board of Discipleship, Youth 2007 is about transforming lives and sending youth back to their communities as stronger disciples of Jesus Christ, says the Rev. Lillian Smith, top executive of the division.

"Youth 2007 provides United Methodist youth with opportunities to grow in faith and Christian leadership. Participants will be charged with living our mission as world-changing disciples of Jesus Christ," Smith said. "This event brings together those who will guide our church into the future and help lead our world."

"Youth 2007 is the most significant experience we offer youth in the Wesleyan tradition," said the Rev. Karen Greenwaldt, top executive at the Board of Discipleship. "We are excited to be the agency of the church that brings this event to life."

"Splat! Seek, Pray, Learn, Act, Teach," is the theme of Youth 2007. Led by a design team of nearly 30 youth, young adults and youth workers from across the country, each day of the weeklong gathering will offer many types of activities and experiences that reinforce the theme.
Mornings will be for seeking God and praying together in worship, engaging in large group Bible study and experiencing music. Participants will be learning about their faith while hearing preaching and teaching.

In the afternoons, groups will seek God through workshops covering topics relevant to youth interests. In the evenings, the entire group will gather again for a time of worship and praise. One full evening will feature a concert for all participants. At the conclusion of the event, youth will be challenged to return to their communities and put their faith into action by teaching others what they've learned.

In addition to worship and workshops, mission service project opportunities will be available around the Greensboro area. Individuals and groups can also participate in interactive destinations. These destinations offer a hands-on way to dive deeper into the theme of Youth 2007 while also building community.

Beyond worship and workshop opportunities, a full Expo Center will be open for youth and youth workers to network, gather and buy resources, and return equipped to strengthen their churches and communities.

For people who register before Dec. 1, the cost will be $165 per person. Registrations received after that date will be charged $200 per person. Reduced registration costs apply for participants coming from the Western Jurisdiction and central conferences: $140 before Dec. 1, 2006, and $175 afterward. The event's official Web site, www.Youth2007.org, provides full event information and registration. Online registration will begin May 5, 2006.

For more information, go to www.Youth2007.org or call the Youth 2007 event office, toll free, at (877) 899-2780, Ext. 7190.

*Information for this report was provided by the Rev. Steve Horswill-Johnston, director of communications & brand strategy Board of Discipleship