2013-06-20

Summer Programming for St. John's - "Open Gym" proposal 6.20.13



Hello All,

There has been some discussion about having get-togethers more often this summer. I have proposed that we use St. John’s as a safe place for our kids to meet and hang out. It would be less formalized than our usual Youth Group time, but still would have time for a devotional toward the end. There would not be a big meal, unless parents would be willing to provide it.

My idea is this:

“Open Gym” – a time for our youth to get together and hang out in a safe environment. The day of the week can change depending on what you – the youth, and parents – feel best fits our summer need. I propose Sunday night from 5 – 6 pm. I’d like to keep consistency, so if there is one day of the week at fits you better than the rest, please let me know. Once the date is officially set, for consistencies sake, we will not change it until Youth Group begins again in late August. Again, it would be more a time to hang out and talk, visit with friends in a safe atmosphere, and get out of the house. The ball closet would be open for those who wanted to play basketball, there would be a few tables and games set up for those who wanted to do that, and also an area where the kids can just gather and socialize. 10 minutes of that time will be a devotional.

As of right now there isn’t any youth events happening at most Churches in Columbia during the summer. I will be opening this idea up to other churches within the Episcopal Church and Greater Shandon Community, after the times have been set.

Your feedback is greatly appreciated,

Bennetts Point, SC - July, 12 - 14

“A retreat is a withdrawal from ordinary, everyday activities for a period of time to commune with God in prayer reflection, and enjoyment.  In most retreats, there is an emphasis on relaxation, and filling the spirit with joy.  There is usually a scriptural or spiritual writing that seems suited to the need of individuals involved that they are to contemplate throughout the retreat time.”

Hello Family,
  We will be going as a Youth Group (rising 6th graders, included) from Friday, July 12 until Sunday, July 14 to Bennetts Point, SC, for a weekend retreat. 

We will meet at St. John’s on Friday, July 12, and leave at 4 pm.  We will return home at 8 am on Sunday, July 14.  The trip (according to Googlemaps) is 2 hours and 36 mins.

  The theme of this retreat is “Re-‘creation’.”  Many of you (our Youth) are over programmed and stressed.  We need time to unwind, relax, and refresh our bodies, minds, and spirits from time to time.  This weekend will be just that.  This will be a time to swim, enjoy the beach, fish, enjoy the surroundings, play, fellowship, read a book, or just chill out in the cabin and converse.  There will be planned events, but there will also be the ability to just breathe and laze around if that’s what you need.  Take advantage of what you need from this retreat.  There will be nightly time to reflect, a devotional, and prayer time.  This is a time to make sure your spiritual batteries are charged for the upcoming months – and *Dun Dun Dun* the re-beginning of stressors such as school, sports, parents (though, there will be adult volunteers on this retreat), etc.
For those who went on the Augusta Trip, this will be a good time to reflect on the work you did, the fun you had, and the lessons learned.  It will also be a time to catch on the sleep you didn’t get while in Augusta.

For those going on the John’s Island Trip, this will be a great time to relax before the work and fun that will be Mission Trip.  That being said, this is open to all Youth Group Members – and I truly hope you consider going.

I will be bringing fishing poles, and there will be a boat that we can enjoy.  There will be two cabins for sleeping (men and women) and appropriate shower and bathroom conditions. 

Please let me know, by Next Friday, June 28, if you will be enjoying this amazing weekend.

Do Long; Didn’t Read:

When: Friday, July 12 @ 4 pm – Sunday, July 14 @ 8 am.
  • We will be meeting at and leaving St. John’s @ 4 pm on Friday. 
  • We will be leaving Bennetts Point @ 8 am on Sunday.
  • As of right now, I will be driving the St. John’s bus.
  • Let me know by Friday, June 28, 2013, if you would like be a part of this great event.



What should we bring:
  • Air Mattress or sleeping bag (and sheets if you need them)
  • Pillow
  • Towels
  • Toiletries
  • Casual Clothing (enough for 3 days)
  • Shoes (in case you decide to go out on the boat or fish)/flip flops
  • Flashlight
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Bathing Suit (if you'd like to go swimming)
  • Books (if you'd like to get some reading done - please, no "school work")
  • Water Bottle
  •  Fishing pole (if you’d like to fish – I will have a few)
  • Snacks (if you wish)

Will there be games:  Yes

Will there be food: Yes, we will be cooking for you.  Please, let me know if you have any food allergies.


May I still volunteer to chaperone: Yes, please do.  The more adult volunteers, the more activities (or hanging out) our youth can do.