In Luke 10 : 1-20 we learn about how Jesus, in wanting to reach out to others, CALLS seventy (35 pairs) followers to go out together into the COMMUNITIES He was about to visit. The followers did as they were called to do. Some places accepted them, some did not. But they returned with joy, reporting that demons obeyed when they spoke in His name. Jesus reminded them that he had given them power to CONTEND with snakes and scorpions and the power of the enemy (things that scared people). Jesus said they have reason to be happy not because evil spirits obeyed them, but because their names were written in heaven (they were the CHOSEN ones).

How, you might be asking, does this connect to Harry Potter? The "ACtivators" presented this to the youth using a catechism format of four questions, posed in a series of skits starring two wizards named "Dumbledora" and "Harriet," a group of 7 youth, and a guy named "Joy." Each skit was paired with film clips. The four questions were:

Q: How do wizard stories start? A: With a CALL
Q: Into where do wizards get called? A: Into COMMUNITY
Q: What are wizards called to do? A: CONTEND with things that frighten or scare people
Q: What do wizards see when they look in the mirror? A: one of the CHOSEN ones

In small groups, the youth and ACtivators responded to what was revealed in the skits, movie clips and scripture by creating bed sheet banners. And of course, no retreat would be complete without a ton of games, energizers and worship music! Food? There was plenty! Sleep? Not much! The members of First United Presbyterian Church of Las Vegas, NM served as gracious hosts to about 40 participants, including 10 youth and adults from SOTV (Carlie, Cassidy, Alex, Abi, Angelyn, Adam, Sarah, Tim, Christa and Jeremy). We thank you for your prayers and financial support of the ministry to youth in our church and the community.

Christa Tarr Youth Elder