SYAT’s Summer Kickoff: Building Safe Spaces for Faith to Grow

Summer is nearly here, and the Synod Youth Advisory Team (SYAT) is energized by the faith‑filled adventures about to begin. Our mission centers on strengthening faith formation for the next generation, and one of the most effective ways we do that is by equipping the adults who walk alongside our young people. Over the past several months, SYAT has hosted monthly Zoom gatherings for pastors, youth leaders, parents, and all who nurture youth in their spiritual lives. These conversations have connected participants with camp directors, offered insights on what to expect at summer ministry sites, and shared practical wisdom—from preparing for road trips to creating safe, welcoming spaces for every young person. We encourage you, your ministry teams, and your volunteers to stay engaged as we continue building a strong foundation for lifelong faith.

In the coming weeks, youth from across our synod will be leading Vacation Bible School, serving on mission trips, and exploring God’s creation through hiking and swimming at Campformation in Prescott. Others will travel to meet peers from places as far as Illinois and Wyoming at Leadership Lab and the Western States Youth Gathering. Our youngest Lutherans will be joyfully stepping into VBS programs of their own. As planning accelerates, now is the ideal moment to assemble your safe and prepared volunteer teams. Our synod partners with Safe Gatherings to ensure that every adult working with children, youth, and other vulnerable populations is properly screened and trained—an essential step in creating environments where faith can flourish. 

Please reach out to Deacon Laura Book at lbook@gcsynod.org if you have questions or would like to be on SYAT's monthly mailing list for more online learning opportunities. 

For updated 2026 VBS resources and program listings, visit: https://www.gcsynod.org/news/2026-vbs 

To learn more about Safe Gatherings or begin your volunteer safety screenings, visit: Safe Gatherings.