UNITED, the TWKUMC annual youth gathering, returned for its second year with the theme “Cross the Street”. Beersheba Springs Assembly hosted the first weekend, February 6-8, and Cedar Crest Camp hosted the second weekend, February 13-15. Between the two weekends, nine churches attended. The keynote speaker was Rev. Katie Minnis of Reidland UMC, and James Touchton led worship with his band: Beverly Touchton, Molly Gilliland, and Jonathan Stallings. The TWK Conference Youth Event Planning Team planned the retreat in collaboration with the Conference Youth Leadership Team. 

The worship sessions dove into what it means to “Cross the Street”: extending God’s love to all people. For the first three sessions, youth reflected on and responded to each message by writing on footprints, which were then added to a crosswalk banner. By Sunday morning, the collection of footprints had met in the middle and crossed to the other side. 

Youth also got to spend time in fellowship with one another throughout the weekend, playing outdoor games, singing songs around a campfire, eating s’mores, and being surprised with an impromptu dance party. 

Rev. Mary Kate Meyers, Associate Pastor at Hilldale UMC and member of the Conference Youth Event Planning Team, reflected on the retreat:

“It was life-giving to be gathered with youth and their leaders from across the conference at this year’s United retreat! In a time where divisiveness is at an alarming high, it was an immeasurable gift to be able to “Cross the Street” to learn about recognizing God’s goodness in one another across every world-imposed barrier. Mad props to the Rev. Katie Minnis in leading the weekend with such love, courage, and grace!”

UNITED will return in 2027! Follow @CedarCrestCamp on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with updates on this retreat and other Cedar Crest programming for children and youth. Want to get involved with the Conference Youth Event Planning Team or the Conference Youth Leadership Team? Reach out to youth@twkumc.org.