New Castle Presbytery Youth Service Day
Event Location: Georgetown Presbyterian Church – Georgetown, Delaware
20 youth and numerous adult volunteers gathered on February 25 to explore the theme: When Did We See You? We partnered with Georgetown Presbyterian Church and Code Purple to educate youth on the work of Code Purple and invite them to participate in their mission to serve our neighbors in need.
We began with games and icebreakers, allowing attendees to get to know one another. This was followed by a presentation from Code Purple. Youth learned about their work, had the opportunity to ask questions, and were able to compare the methods of Code Purple with the processes of shelters in their own communities. We then completed our first project, assembling fleece blankets to be given to those who are staying in any of the four (4) shelters managed by Code Purple. We played a few more games before breaking for lunch.
We then went into small groups for Bible study and conversation. We talked about what it means to see others, how it feels to be seen, and how we can practice seeing the most vulnerable among us. Youth were able to connect what they were learning and doing to the act of seeing those experiencing homelessness, including: looking someone in the eye, speaking to them, offering something they might need, and even asking bigger questions and seeking to address deeper issues around housing, employment, and mental health care.
After this, we packed lunches which were later distributed to folks staying across the four shelters. We wrapped up our day with a worship service, including youth in the leadership of it. We were reminded to be “sheepish,” seeking to see others.
