The Ohio Episcopal Area Youth Collective launched its West Ohio Retreat at Wesley Camp and Retreat Center, bringing together students, youth leaders, and pastors for a shared experience of listening, learning, and leading together. The gathering created intentional space for participants to explore what it means to love boldly, serve joyfully, and develop the skills needed to lead courageously.

Through a blend of joint sessions and separate student and adult activities, participants discovered new ways to be in ministry with one another. The retreat emphasized thoughtful listening, collaborative leadership, and the value of making room for every voice. Along the way, friendships formed, lasting memories were made, and participants encountered God in deeply personal ways as new hopes and dreams began to take flight.

Reflections from the weekend captured the retreat’s impact. “I can participate in making a difference,” one student shared. An adult participant offered an equally candid insight: “I don’t listen as well as I thought I do.” Together, their words reflect the heart of the Youth Collective: empowering young people to recognize their ability to create change while encouraging adults to listen, learn, and lead alongside them.

Director of Engagement with Children, Youth, and Young Adults for the Ohio Episcopal Area, Rev. Ann Marie Carley, stated, “This is just the beginning of what God is doing in and across Ohio with students. To see lead pastors listen to youth and partner with youth leaders was spectacular. I cannot wait to see how God continues to use this group to love boldly, serve joyfully, and lead courageously.” 

For questions about the Ohio Episcopal Area Youth Collective in West Ohio, contact Rev. Ann Marie (amcarley@wocumc.org).

Written by Rev. Ann Marie Carley, Director of Engagement with Children, Youth and Young Adults Graphic by Jillian Thompson, Graphic Designer