Community Covenant

Our youth ministry experiences depend on a commitment to living in intentional Christian community by the participants and the adult volunteers. To do so, we agree to a covenant that helps manage our relationships with one another, our behavior within community, and as a community. We require all participants to read and agree to our Community Covenant below. 

Youth Retreats are an opportunity to come to know God while briefly living in intentional Christian community. To ensure every person’s worth as a child of God and each person’s safety, all participants (youth, children, and adults) follow this Community Covenant. 

• I will participate fully in all activities. 

• I will stay off my cell phone and other electronics. 

• I will be respectful to all persons and the retreat environment at all times. 

• I understand that the adults are present for my safety, for my questions about life and faith, and that they are responsible to uphold the church policies and boundaries as well as those of the camp facilities. I will be respectful to the adults. 

• I will not wander away from the camp facilities, small group, cabin group, or the total group without permission from a counselor. 

• I will respect the personal items of other participants (children, youth, and adults) and respect personal space and others' physical autonomy. 

• Accidents happen. 

I understand that my family could be held financially responsible for any repairs needed to property as a result of my actions. I understand and accept that if I am found with, or participate in any of the following, that I could be sent home from the youth at my family’s expense. I also understand that being sent home may limit or disqualify my participation in summer camp, retreats, education or mission trips in the future. 

• I will not bring weaponry of any sort (knives, firearms, etc.) to the retreat. 

• I will not bring or consume illegal drugs, alcohol, or tobacco of any sort. 

• I will not steal anything from anyone. 

• I will not physically harm another person.

• I will not participate in sexual activity of any kind. 

• I will not consistently behave in a way that disrespects the adults, other youth on retreat, or the facility that does not reflect the grace and love that is expected of persons who claim Christian faith.

• I understand that cell phones are allowed as cameras and during “cabin time” only. Phone calls are for emergency situations and should be arranged by the event director. 

I look forward to spending time in community with those who share my interest in exploring Christian faith and the practice of Christianity as we play, pray, study, worship, and serve one another following the example of Jesus.