Close to 300 youth and chaperones gathered for fun, fellowship, worship, and to explore the focus for God in their lives at “Dakyouth 16” at Aberdeen First United Methodist Church in South Dakota.

Photo: The band Vota performed at Dakyouth 16 held Nov. 11-13 at Aberdeen First UMC. Photo courtesy of Rev. Karl Kroger.

The youth came from 33 United Methodist churches around the Dakotas Conference. The theme “Focus” and featured speaker, Neal Bowes, director of youth ministries at Jesse Lee Memorial UMC in Ridgefield, CT, encouraged youth to reflect on priorities and wrestle with what it means to put God first as you explore “where your heart is.”

“Things went very well. Everything ran smoothly,” said Rev. Jeff Lathrop, who co-leads the conference’s Youth Ministry team and serves as the associate pastor at Huron First UMC. “Everything just tied together so well from the kick off in opening worship with Bishop Ough to the speakers, worship and band. Youth were inspired and challenged.”

Throughout the event, youth engaged in activities that drove home the theme:

Hannah May Foust: Hannah, a seventh grader from Carmel, Indiana, spoke about her goal to raise money to build wells for water in Burkino Faso, Africa.  She has raised funds to build over 10 wells and has inspired thousands.  Foust will travel to Burkino Faso this spring.  Her words encouraged those present at Dakyouth16 to focus on loving and serving their neighbor.

Group learning: Large group and small group sessions were held throughout Saturday. Neal Bowes and Hannah Foust led a large group sessions. Youth headed to small groups to dig into the true meaning of the large group sessions led by Bowes and Foust.

Worship:  There were three worship services throughout the weekend, and Vota band made an appearance too.  Bishop Ough led the opening worship and called those in attendance to look to where God is calling you.  Rev. Peggy Stempson shared the message on Saturday at worship encouraging youth to dig deep into their passion.  Rev. Kori Lehrkamp challenged youth on Sunday morning at worship to take their focus back home and act on it.

Photo: Bishop Bruce R. Ough delivered the message for opening worship at Dakyouth 16 held Nov. 10-12 in Aberdeen, S.D.  Photo courtesy of Rev. Kori Lehrkamp.

Harris the III: On Saturday evening, master illusionist Harris III created moments that lead to the discovery of #RealMagic, and shared the lies and deception that many have been tricked into believing. He revealed the greatest secret of the Kingdom of God, Jesus Christ by sharing his testimony.

“Everyone was so engaged and inspired,” said Lathrop. “ The band, Vota commented how the event was filled with hospitality and grace.  Aberdeen First was an awesome host. We look forward to next year.”

There were 7 churches that sent youth to Dakyouth 16 that had not previously: Arthur, Bowman, Cresbard, Edgemont, Hartford and Selby.  Mark your calendar for next year, Dakyouth 17 will be held November 10-12, 2017 at Aberdeen First UMC.