Recap submitted by Madison Causey, Hospitality Coordinator at Cedar Crest Camp
Wesley in the Woods, a TWK Confirmation Kickoff Retreat, was hosted at Cedar Crest on November 7-9. The TWK Children’s team planned this retreat, spending time with confirmands on what it means to be a United Methodist. Through confirmands and leadership, 13 UMC churches were represented this year. Kelsey Sledge, Betsy Haley, and Tracy Evers led workshops, Rev. John Weaver of Wesley Foundation of Middle Tennessee was the keynote speaker, and Gideon Sledge and Isabel Berry-Womack of Cookeville FUMC led worship.
Confirmands attended workshops on communion, baptism, United Methodist history, and John/Charles Wesley. In worship, students reflected on the story of the prodigal son, and how the word “prodigal” can actually describe God and God’s love for us: extravagant and giving everything!
The students also connected to denominational disaster relief by making over 200 UMCOR hygiene packs containing towels, soap, dental hygiene, bandaids, and nail clippers. They also made “thank-you” notes for the people at UMCOR who distribute the packs and give their time to help those in need for a variety of disasters.
Students also got to spend time together during the weekend playing field games outside, participating in a scavenger hunt, as well as sharing s’mores around a bonfire.
Wesley in the Woods will return in Fall 2026. Follow @CedarCrestCamp for updates on this retreat and other Cedar Crest programming for children and youth. Want to get more information from the TWK Children’s Team or get involved? Email children@twkumc.org.
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