Network in the East

We are excited to announce a new continuing education and networking event for congregational youthworkers, both staff and volunteers, designed to help renew, educate and connect youth leaders with their peers, while providing them resources and training in youth and family ministry theory, theology, and practice. The event titled Network In the East, represents a collaboration between the ELCA Youth Ministry Network and the Kindling Faith Initiative at United Lutheran Seminary (ULS) at Gettysburg, which is designed to offer lifelong learning for ministry leaders.

Network In the East will be held on the Gettysburg Campus of ULS, 7-9 August  2025, and will include courses on adaptive leadership, curriculum design for the congregational setting, helping young people respond to trauma, and developing active learning for faith formation. We are pleased to welcome Deacon Jessica Noonan from LEAD Ministries (https://leadconnects.org/), who will offer our keynote presentation on adaptive leadership and listening. A full schedule of courses and presenters is available by visiting: https://www.lss-elca.org/youthworkers/ and scrolling down the page to Network In the East.

In addition to our learning modules, we have created lots of opportunities for networking and fellowship with peers, including an opening night picnic-style meal and a Friday meal out in Gettysburg, plus evening receptions to allow for connection and conversation about your own ministry context. Thanks to a generous grant, we are offering the event, coursework, all meals and fellowship at $139.00/person. Lodging is separate and rooms have been blocked for this event at the Best Western in Gettysburg. Lodging fees are paid directly to the hotel. Participants can opt to arrive and stay one night or two and split room costs with fellow team members from their congregations or from a nearby congregation. Information on how to register for the event and details on booking your lodging can also be found on the website: https://www.lss-elca.org/youthworkers/. The deadline for event registration, and hotel reservations is July 7, 2025.

Questions regarding the event content or registration questions can be directed to Charlie Roberts at croberts@lss-elca.org, Director of Faith Formation and Youth Ministry for Lower Susquehanna Synod; he is acting as the host synod for this event.

Check Out the Camping Ministry Page

Camping ministry opportunities come in different shapes, ranging from traditional summer one-week camps to themed camps to tutoring programs to year-round camping and retreats. To explore what three different camps (Caroline Furnace, Camp Luther, and Camp Agapé) offer, visit our Camping Ministry page.

Keep in mind, all camps are taking registration for the summer season for campers, and some are still recruiting staff. Check it out.

Scouting

Our Camping Ministry page also includes information about the National Association on Lutheran Scouting as well as information on how to get involved in the Jamborees held at the Summit facility.