Confirmation Grades 7-8
Retreat “Sexuality Is Sacred” on February 10-11, 2012.
In the fall of 2011, the confirmation youth of Mount Crss studied the Old Testament. This February we will gather at church for a Retreat on Sexuality. Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, February 22. During the Season of Lent youth and their families are asked to participate in devotionons on ”Favorite Stories from the Old Testament.” These Devotions will be distributed at the Retreat. I think you’ll find these devotionals enriching and edifying to the soul.
Our Sexuality Retreat will be held at Mount Cross this year on Friday-Saturday, February 10-11. Gail Jepson will once again faithfully serve as our female chaperon. Our Retreat Theme is “Sexuality Is Sacred.” The goal of the Retreat is to discover what God’s Word has to say about the sacred gift of human sexuality and how the Bible informs the way Christians care for the Temple of the Lord.
Year One: “The Testaments, Old and New”
During the fall, youth in grades 7-8 participate in a 10 week class on the Old Testament learning key stories from the Bible. An overview of the Old Testament will help youth see how creation, the fall, the covenant with Abraham and Sarah, the exodus, the conquest of the promised land, the judges, kings and prophets, and the Babylonian Exile all prepare the way for God’s gift of Salvation and the arrival of a New Testament. Youth also participate in a field trip to a Jewish Synagogue.
During the Season of Lent youth and their families participate in family devotions on the Old Testament. Youth also participate in a winter weekend retreat on Human Sexuality learning that our bodies are a temple of the Holy Spirit; a sacred gift from God to be used responsibly.
During the spring, youth attend a ten week class on the New Testament. Emphasis is placed on the origin of the Bible, and the life and ministry of Jesus. Our goal is not only to learn about Jesus, but to become like Him. Youth are also required to take sermon notes.
Year Two: “Lutheranism 101″
During the fall, youth in grades 7-8 participate in a 10 week class on Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation. Youth learn what it means to be a Lutheran: Justification by faith alone.
During the Season of Lent youth and their families participate in family devotions on the Psalms (Israel’s book of song and prayer). Youth also participate in a winter weekend retreat on the Ten Commandments learning about the gift of the Law in our lives. The Commandments are rooted in grace and given for our benefit, protection and well-being. The rules always begin with a promise, “I Am the LORD your God!”
During the spring, youth attend a 6-8 week class on the Means of Grace, learning through movies how God creates faith in our lives through the Gospel and the Sacraments. Eighth graders also select their mentor; an active member of Mount Cross who practices discipleship in daily life.
