Southwestern College will host the Summit Youth Academy July 22-28.  The academy offers current high school sophomores and juniors a week to hear God’s calling by connecting with God, Christian leaders, and peers, learning from Wesleyan scholars, and serving others.

According to Wendy Mohler-Seib, director of faith formation for youth and young adults for the Institute for Discipleship, last year 36 Summit disciples attended, and this year the goal is 60. Disciples will be given the chance to consider their post-high school plans as Peter Cammarano guides them through the Birkman Assessment. This assessment helps young people consider the best career field for their interests, passions, strengths, and environmental preferences.

“Our goal is to give young disciples a deeper understanding of their faith and the challenges that our communities and neighbors face, and exposure to quality theological education so they can respond to God in a thoughtful way that promotes love, grace, kindness, and mercy in the world around them,” said Mohler-Seib. “We believe that every person is uniquely gifted to bring goodness to those around them.”

Special guest lecturers and preachers include Cammarano, Andrew Singh, Scott Kisker, Stephen Rankin, Julie Lashier, Jackson Lashier, Anne Gatobu, Lucas McConnell, and several Southwestern College alumni who will return as covenant pastors to assist 10 Southwestern College students (Summit Guides) who will lead small groups each day.

To be accepted into the Summit Youth Academy, potential Summit disciples need to apply at www.summityouthacademy.com. Acceptance also requires a nomination from a church leader.  This can be a pastor, youth pastor, or lay person.  Summit disciples who are currently juniors in high school are invited to re-apply to attend.

The cost to attend the Summit Youth Academy is $200 from the participant and $200 from the nominating churches. The Great Plains Annual Conference also provides 50 $100 scholarships for first-year Summit disciples.

Sponsors for the academy include: Winfield Circles, SoCe Life Wichita, Coaching for Grace, Camp Horizon, and The Great Plains Annual Conference.