What happens at Happening? Happening is a youth-led spiritual formation weekend designed for high school teens in grades 9-12 to connect with Christ and one another. Happening is a retreat based on building Christian community that is open and welcoming to all. Hosted by the Episcopal Church, you do not need to attend an Episcopal church or school to attend. The prayer for Happening is for all of us to return to our many churches, schools and communities ready to share the Good News of Jesus Christ.
Who is involved in the weekend? Happening is staffed by youth who have attended Happening in the past, as well as adults and clergy (ministers/pastors). Youth on staff have the responsibility of giving the majority of the talks. These talks, as well as small group time and other activities, are examples of being the church. Each talk opens up for discussion about what it is like for each one of us to live out our faith, guided by the Holy Spirit.
What should I bring to Happening? Your favorite pillow, throw blanket, toiletries, and enough clothes for the weekend including pajamas. Lodging for 2-3 youth per room is grouped by age and gender in single rooms in the quad. Linens and towels provided. You must bring your own toiletries. Also, bring musical instruments if you play them, a great attitude, and an open heart. This is an "unplugged" retreat. Any cell phones, laptops, iPads, or other electronic devices are returned at the end of the weekend. Why? Because time works differently at Happening, and we let go of having our attention anywhere other than with our community for the weekend.
Closing ceremony: Parents, siblings, friends, clergy, and youth ministers are invited and encouraged to attend the closing ceremony at 11:00 am on Sunday, August 18th in the Chapel of the Holy Cross at SECC. We want friends and family at the closing for each participant and parents will be contacted with more details about the ceremony prior to the Happening weekend.
Attendance: All participants must attend the entire event. Due to the schedule, there are no exceptions for arriving late or leaving early.
Registration Time: Dinner provided at 6:30pm in the Dining Hall, with Registration open from 6:30pm-7:00pm.
Closing Ceremony: 11 am on Sunday, August 18th.
Cost of Happening: $150 by check (made out to SECC) or cash at time of event. Rooms, lodging, and all materials for the weekend are all included in the $150 for participants and staff. Children of clergy may attend for free by request (with registration). Finances should not be a barrier for any student to attend Happening. Please email jwigginnettles@edola.org for scholarship assistance.
What about Staff positions? If you have previously participated in Happening and would like to serve on staff you can email Mother Jane-Allison Wiggin-Nettles at jwigginnettles@edola.org. Staff positions for Happening #83 are filled. All over the age of 18 staffing a dicoesan event must always first contact Mother Jane-Allison before registering.
The next Happening will be February 7-9, 2020.
Medical Release Forms must be filled out in order to complete registration. Click on the link below:
Bookings are closed for this event.
