What SUMYT means to me!
By Aspen Brooks | Photo by Camp Indianola
The Seattle United Methodist Youth Team, or SUMYT, could technically be described as a group of youth from the Seattle area who plan a retreat every year in March under adult guidance. However, there is so much more to SUMYT than that!
At its core, I believe that SUMYT is an opportunity. Being on the SUMYT team is an opportunity to step up and take responsibility, an opportunity to grow as a leader, and most importantly, an opportunity for Christian fellowship.
Whether you are a participant at the retreat, or a member of the team, you are immersed in a loving and welcoming atmosphere. The retreat provides a chance to reconnect with old friends, and forge new friendships at the same time.
The retreat itself is an opportunity as well, for fun and laughter, for music and dance, and for friendship and support. Camp Indianola provides not just a gorgeous backdrop next to the Puget Sound, but also a variety of engaging activities – from the adrenaline rush of the rope swing, to musical jam sessions, or a soccer game on the grassy field.
We also have an aptly-named Amazing Race that will bring out everybody’s competitive side and send youth and adults alike racing all over camp! That was definitely one of my personal favorites from the retreat last year. Not only are these activities available for the youth from 6th-12th grade to enjoy, but also for our awesome adult chaperones.
Additionally, SUMYT is a huge opportunity to strengthen your relationship with God. Personally, I have found that in my own life, I walk away from retreats feeling more confident in my faith and closer to God. Why is this? I think that it’s a combination of the powerful messages delivered at rallies, the deep conversations in small groups, and the ability to interact with others in an immersive Christian environment. I remember at the SUMYT retreat last year almost the entire room being brought to tears by one of the moving faith talks.
Being part of SUMYT has been a life-altering opportunity for me. I have grown closer to youth all over the state that I wouldn’t even know otherwise, grown as a leader, and grown closer to God.
You could describe SUMYT as a group of youth who plan a retreat, but it is so much more than that!
Editor’s Note: This is going to be an exciting year at the SUMYT retreat.
The SUMYT retreat will be held on March 14 to 16 – for the first time in over 10 years, the retreat sold out!
That’s over 120 youth and adults from Marysville to Selah to Pasco to McCleary that will come together
for what is sure to be an amazing weekend of faith, community and fun!
Special thanks to Laura Martin. Aspen Brooks is a high school junior from Bothell UMC.
