I want to tell you about an upcoming opportunity for the high school students in your congregation: SUMMA Camp at the University of the South in Sewanee, Tennessee, July 18-26. It is a chance for students who are curious about building their faith through intellectual channels. Held on one of the most beautiful college campuses in the nation, SUMMA offers a rich, uniquely meaningful experience.

Dialogues at camp focus on theology, science, current events, public speaking and debates. The experience will teach students how to think carefully; how to express themselves clearly; how to explore faith in relation to science, history and philosophy; and how to argue lovingly. These are critical skills for the church, and indeed, our society's future. The SUMMA website provides details on the summer camp and application process. I am committed to helping students with financial hardships attend; I do not want cost to be a deterrent. Please contact me directly for assistance.

The camp has room for 48 students, and is currently half-full. Interested students should apply soon, although there is no deadline. SUMMA offers a free shuttle to the university from Nashville airport (BNA) on July 18 and a return shuttle to the same airport on July 26. The campus is about one hour away from Nashville.  

The diocesan Youth Collaborative has also asked me to let you know about two other summer opportunities for youth. The first is an urban immersion camp for middle school youth on June 24-26 at St. Mark's, City Heights. The second is a mission trip that takes place the same time as the SUMMA debate camp. We recognize this conflict but I ask you to promote both because they may appeal to different types of students. The high school mission trip partners with Amor Ministries; students will travel to Mexico to build houses for those in the poorest of living conditions. The dates of the high school trip are July 25-30. Information and registration are available on the diocesan website. Please contact Youth Collaborative Conveners Charlette Preslar and the Rev. Monica Mainwaring with any questions.

Thank you for your work with the youth of the church, and therefore, the future of the church.

Faithfully,