Submitted by Pastor Jennifer Rath-Scott, Trinity UMC and South District Youth Coordinator
One of the things the South District embraces especially well is its calling to live into the connectional nature of the Church.
Every month, Youth Directors from across the district gather together to support one another, share ideas, pray together, and dream up meaningful ways to create community for young people. Throughout the year, that collaboration leads to retreats, service opportunities, and creative events that remind our youth they are part of something bigger than just one church! This past weekend, that spirit of connection took the form of one wildly fun evening of mystery and fellowship at Trinity UMC in San Diego for the District-Wide Live Action Clue Night.
About 50 youth from across the district came together for a night of outrageous costumes, dramatic skits, clue-hunting chaos… with Pastors and Youth Directors fully committing to the bit. Because sometimes young people just need a chance to set aside the pressures of school and life for a little while… and laugh together in a safe place while watching their leaders run through a church hallway in a ridiculous costume!
And honestly? That kind of joy matters.
The event was made possible by an incredible team of leaders and volunteers who poured their hearts into creating a welcoming and memorable night for the youth of the South District.
A special thank you also goes to St. Luke’s Episcopal Church. Over the past year, Trinity and St. Luke’s have continued building a meaningful partnership rooted in shared community and collaboration. Two of St. Luke’s leaders joined the cast of characters for the evening, and they also brought ten of their youth to join in the fun!
And perhaps the evening’s most memorable supporting actor was Theo… Trinity Pastor Jen Scott’s, dog… who made an appearance as the Butler. Honestly, he may have been the only truly trustworthy character in the entire mansion.
At the end of the night, the mystery was solved. But more importantly, our youth left reminded that the Church can still be a place of joy, belonging, friendship, and community. And honestly, that may have been the best clue of all!”