Tell me More…about the Presbytery Youth Council!
Reflections from the PYC Leadership Mini-Conference
and the PYC High School Retreat
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Ecology of Calling Initiative
Foothills Presbytery Youth Council Leadership Mini-Conference
Sponsored by Presbyterian College
Reflection written by Wyatt Anthony, Easley Church and Presbytery Youth Council member
On March 9th, 2025, I attended the Presbyterian College seminar at Lead Collective in Greenville as part of a monthly Presbytery Youth Council (PYC) meeting. This was a leadership seminar where the panel consisted of Rev. Buz Wilcoxon, Dr. Martha Moore-Keish, and Dr. Austin Shull. The overall theme was: What is your calling? This theme got my mind turning because I am always on the leading end of these retreats and never on the receiving end. As I navigate my way through high school, I think we as young adults always worry whether we are making the right decision or not.
Dr. Moore-Keish from Columbia Seminary gave insight into the theological aspect displaying how God is there through every step, not just when we need him but even in the good times. I have always thought pretty deeply about my future, wondering what is right for me, and hoping I will make the right decision. As I think of what is to come next I know God will always be by my side no matter the trial or tribulation. Isaiah 41:10 says, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” This verse always helps me remember that I am not alone in times of doubt and worry.
Dr. Shull took a more worldly approach to figuring out what our calling might be. It was helpful to have both aspects of this because he teaches students going through this transitional period in their lives. One thing that stood out to me the most was he said that students might change their major 2 or 3 times while in college. This opened my eyes to the fact that I don’t have to figure out what I am going to do for the rest of my life as a high school student. His tie with spiritual life proved to me that God works in wonderful ways in the sense that there is always an end goal for everyone. He showed that even though we may not know our calling right now if we just put our faith in God and not worry so much about worldly things God will show us what we are called to do.
Another thing that stood out to me was when Dr. Shull said everyone has their gifts and that God makes us different so that we all can help each other. One of the exercises we did was writing down all the careers we might want to pursue. We then shared them no matter how broad or specific they were. As we went around the room sharing these career ideas one said a special needs educator, another said he wanted to be an entrepreneur. Hearing these things showed that each person has a different calling and has found these callings in different ways. These different gifts show how God has called each of us to do a variety of things.
I want to personally thank Rev. Wilcoxon, Dr. Moore-Keish, and Dr. Shull for providing the Foothills PYC with this amazing opportunity to learn more about ourselves and to improve our faith in God. Though I am not sure what my calling is yet, I am sure that God will show me the way.
“Limitless” reflection by Hope Johnson, member of Central Presbyterian and Foothills Presbytery Youth Council Co-Moderator
This past weekend, high school students from nine churches in Foothills Presbytery gathered in Montreat for a truly unforgettable retreat. Due to a snow storm in January, the Presbytery Youth Council had to push this weekend back a couple months and unfortunately some churches were not able to attend. Nevertheless, we embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm! With a smaller group, we enjoyed more intimate small group discussions, allowing us to deepen our connections with one another.
Our theme for the weekend was “Limitless” based on John 10:10b, “I came that they could have life- indeed, so that they could live life to the fullest.” Our keynoters for the weekend were Eliza and John Daniel DeBevoise. They were able to use the theme in many different ways throughout the weekend. They used the sub themes of Limitless God and Limitless Love to remind us even though we are limited, God is limitless and makes sure there is enough love for everyone. Rafe Andrews served as the music leader for the weekend. Rafe led us in familiar and new songs that related the theme “Limitless.”
The highlight of our weekend was undoubtedly our mission work! On Saturday, with the support of Asheville Youth Mission (AYM), each church had the chance to volunteer at various organizations in Black Mountain, Asheville, and Swannanoa. Our goal was to give back to the community that has supported us for so many years, especially in light of the challenges posed by Hurricane Helene. Our youth groups not only had a blast assisting these organizations but also learned from their experiences.
Even with fewer participants, we managed to make this Mini Montreat one of the most enjoyable and memorable events we’ve ever had!
