HillChurchNewsYouth

January 2012 Events

2011-12-15T10:43:00.000-08:00

Sunday, January 8
STAR OF WONDER!
For all ages! Come to worship at the East Woodstock Church at 10:00 am this morning and celebrate Epiphany by picking up your star gift.

Monday, January 16
DAY OF INTERFAITH SERVICE
Celebrate the MLK Holiday with a “day on, not a day off” as we gather at Brandeis University with 300 youth from the Boston area.
Register online asap to reserve your spot because space is limited. Meet at East Woodstock at 12 noon to carpool. We will return by 9 PM. http://www.coopmet.org
“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve” ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Sunday, January 22
CROSSROADS MEETING
7 to 8:30 PM at the East Woodstock Church
Chill/relax/hang out after exams are OVER!

Sunday, January 29
BREAKFAST CLUB
For youth in grades 8-12
Join us for conversation and some breakfast snacks at the East Woodstock church this morning. Come at 10:00 and we’ll gather when the children leave for church school.

DECEMBER 2011 EVENTS

2011-11-28T11:20:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY, DEC. 4
Giv2 NORTHEAST—SPREADING HOLIDAY CHEER
For Youth in grades 7-12
Meet at the HILL CHURCH at 12 noon to carpool to Canterbury. We’re visiting the Creamery Brook Retirement village and pierce Baptist Home. Join us for some decorating, caroling, and a chance to visit with seniors.

SATURDAY, DEC. 10
SANTA’S SITTING SERVICE
For youth in grades 7-12
9:00 am to 3:00 PM at the East Woodstock Church.
Help with child care so parents can tend to holiday preparations. You can sign up to assist with, baking, crafts, outdoor play, board games, or story time. Proceeds will go toward our National Youth Event trip in July.

SUNDAY, DEC. 18
BREAKFAST CLUB
For youth in grades 8-12
10:00 am at the East Woodstock Church
Gather in the chapel when the children leave for church school. We’ll have some conversation and share some breakfast goodies.

COMING UP IN JANUARY 2012:

TAWFG* Retreat at Silver Lake on Jan 6-8
Meet with Rev. DaVita McCallister and other youth who are *THINKING About Working For God!

Celebrate the ML King Holiday with a Day of Service in Boston on January 16

November Events

2011-11-10T09:20:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 6
CROSSROADS
7 to 8:30 PM at the EAST WOODSTOCK CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH
For youth in grades 9-12 and friends.
Youth group meeting on the first + third Sundays of the month.
Snacks + conversation
Games + Fun

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 11
SENIOR CAFÉ
11:30 to 1 at East Woodstock.
It’s a holiday so come and help us serve a meal to senior citizens in our community!
There are lots of ways to help:
-Food Prep on Thursday from 2-5
-Bake cookies or cupcakes for dessert
-Serve on Friday (arrive at 10:30. Wear black & white)
-Clean up from 12:30 to 2:30.
All workers get a free meal. Invite a friend to work with you.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 20
CROSSROADS
7 to 8:30 PM
EAST WOODSTOCK CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 27
BREAKFAST CLUB
10:00 am at EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH.
Join us for conversation over a cup of hot cocoa. We will meet in Fellowship Hall when the children leave for church school.

OCTOBER 2011 EVENTS

2011-09-28T10:58:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 2
CROSSROADS
7 to 8:30 PM at EAST WOODSTOCK
Q: What is CROSSOADS? A: youth group meeting on the first + third Sundays of the month.
Snacks + conversation
Good works + good fun (this week…. Water games!)

MONDAY, OCTOBER 10
COMMUNITY KITCHEN
Come to the HILL CHURCH at 9:30 am. We’ll prepare a hot meal, transport it to N. Grosvenordale, visit with the guests, serve lunch at noon, and return by 1:30 PM. Please RSVP to Debby by Weds, Oct 5.

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16
CROSSROADS
7 to 8:30 PM at the EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23
GIV2 HITS THE TRAIL
For youth in grades 7-12
Meet at the HILL CHURCH at 12:30 PM for lunch. We will gather with youth from other congregations and drive to Camp Nahaco in Eastford to help with fall clean up and trail maintenance. We meet rain or shine so dress for the weather!

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 30
BREAKFAST CLUB
10:00 am at EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH. Join us for a cup of hot cocoa. We will meet in Fellowship Hall when the children leave for church school.

HIT THE TRAIL WITH GIV2

2011-09-22T08:17:00.000-07:00

HIT THE TRAIL with GIV2
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 23
12:30 PM at the First Congregational Church of Woodstock

Giv2 is for all youth in grades 7-12. Friends are welcome!

GATHER-- Meet for lunch and fellowship at the First Congregational Church of Woodstock at 543 Route 169 on Woodstock Hill.
GO-- Carpool to Eastford and help with Trail Maintenance at Camp Nahaco. This beautiful park borders Crystal Pond. We will pick up branches and other debris from the recent hurricane. Please dress for the weather and bring work gloves. In the event of rain, we will do an indoor project in the dining hall. Celebrate our work with a campfire and s’mores.
REFLECT-- Learn how two towns work together to protect this beautiful spot.
RETURN-- We will return to the Hill Church by 4:30

Adults are needed to assist with lunch, take photos, and/or drive to Eastford.
Please speak to Debby Kirk at 860-377-2675 if you would like to get involved.

Giv2 Northeast includes youth from UCC churches in Thompson, Westfield,
Woodstock, East Woodstock, and Canterbury.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

2011-09-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

SEPTEMBER 10
MICHAEL JOSEPH, UCC MISSIONARY
Potluck Supper at 6:00 PM at the Hill Church. All area churches are invited.
Learn how Michael has worked for peace in Colombia as part of UCC Global Ministries.

SEPTEMBER 11
9/11 ANNIVERSARY WORSHIP
10:00 am at the Hill Church
Come to this special Union Service of worship where First Responders will be honored.

SEPTEMBER 18
STONEWALL SPEAKERS
11:15 am at the Hill Church
Speakers will share their experiences of “coming out” to family, friends, and church communities. Join us for this second hour program. Help our congregations in Affirming LGBT friends.

SEPTEMBER 18
CROSSROADS: Where faith and fun meet
For youth in grades 9-12
7:00 to 8:30 PM
EAST WOODSTOCK CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH.
Mix it up with sundaes, smoothies, or shakes! Invite a friend and come and find out about youth group plans for the year. You’ll hear about Giv2, Mission 1, NYE, and Simply Smiles events.

SEPTEMBER 25
BREAKFAST CLUB
10 am at East Woodstock Congregational Church
Come to worship and gather to see our Compassion Camp 11 video. Then gather for conversation and snacks when the children leave for church school.

SEPTEMBER 25
SIMPLY SMILES INFO SESSION- TRIP TO SOUTH DAKOTA
7 PM at the East Woodstock Church.
Come and find out about this opportunity to serve in South Dakota. The trip will be on August 18-25, 2012 at the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation Project. Church members from E. Woodstock, the Hill, and the Gilead Church in Lebanon have are collaborating to sponsor this trip. The minimum age to participate is 14 years old. Mornings will be spent repairing and/or building homes and afternoons running the summer camp. Each day of camp will be based around a different Lakota value.

COMPASSION CAMP 2011

2011-06-24T08:06:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 25
Northeast Regional Animal Shelter
Bring a donation of canned dog or cat food and a roll of paper towels.
Bring your own bag lunch.

Tuesday, July 26
Field Day at Center of Hope in Southbridge
Wear sneakers and bring a water bottle.
Lunch is provided.

Wednesday, July 27
First Congregational Church of Brimfield
This church has been serving as a shelter and distribution point for MA tornado victims. We will probably do outdoor work picking up sticks so work gloves and work boots are required. Wear you Compassion Camp t-shirt. Bring your own bag lunch and water bottle.

Thursday, July 28
People’s Harvest Garden in Pomfret
Pick vegetables that will be distributed to local soup kitchens and pantries.
Bring a bag lunch and a SWIM SUIT today. We are planning for a PM pool party!

Friday, July 29
Covenant Soup Kitchen and WAIM in Willimantic
Wear sneakers and your Compassion Camp t-shirt today.
Some of us will serve a meal at the soup kitchen and some will help with projects at Windham Area Interfaith Ministry.
Lunch is provided.

April Events

2011-03-27T12:38:00.000-07:00

SYG SUNDAY MORNING Sunday, April 3 Day McCallister, Associate Conference Minister for Youth and Young Adults for CT will be preaching at East Woodstock. If you met her at RYE, you know Day is an awesome preacher! Come for worship at 10:00 at East Woodstock and help as a greeter or usher. There will be time to talk with Day after worship so plan to stay for our “2nd Hour” today. EASTER WORKSHOP Sunday, April 10 4:00 to 6:00 PM Youth Group Meeting at the Hill Church. Help us prepare our Silver Lake Fundraising event. Watch your email for details about time! GIV2 SPRINGS into ACTION Wednesday, April 20 All youth in grades 7 and up are invited to join us as we Spring in to Action to Clean up the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp in Ashford. Meet at the Ivy Glenn Memorial in Eastford Center at 9:00 am and carpool. (See our Giv2 page for details.) Please RSVP by 4/17. EASTER SUNDAY Sunday, April 24 Come celebrate the GOOD NEWS! Sunrise Service is at 6:30 am at Woodstock Academy. Join us for worship is at 10:00 am or help with child care.

Giv2 Northeast Events

2011-02-17T11:55:00.001-08:00

SPECIAL OLYMPICS SWIM MEET
SATURDAY, MARCH 12
8 am to 4 PM at Windham High School
"Dive In" to service and help a special athlete have a memorable competitive experience. No, we won't actually be swimming this time, but you can sign up to be a "buddy" for the day and help your athlete get to the starting blocks on time. Download the form from the website and pre-register. There will be time for arts and crafts as well as basketball between events. Lunch is provided. Carpool with your group and plan to arrive in Windham by 8 am.

BOSTON URBAN OUTREACH

2011-02-01T13:57:00.000-08:00

WINTER MISSION TRIP

MARCH 4-6, 2011
FOR YOUTH IN GRADES 9-12 AND ADULTS
Spend a weekend working with the City Mission Society and learn about Homelessness Prevention the Youth Peace Empowerment Programs. We’ll stay at the Charlestown UCC Church, serve a meal at the Pilgrim soup kitchen, and attend an urban worship service on Sunday morning. The City Mission Society http://www.cmsboston.org/ is the oldest multi-service agency in New England. CMS has been offering assistance to low-income and marginalized men, women, and children in Boston since 1816.
· 48 hour immersion experience runs from 3 PM on Friday to 3 PM on Sunday.
· $80 covers CMS fee, transportation, and all meals. Download a registration form from the Youth page of the church website
Send a $30 deposit or full payment to reserve your spot.
Scholarships are available.
· Friends are welcome, just give them a copy of the registration form.
There will be an important planning meeting at 7 PM on February 13.

February Events

2011-02-01T13:53:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 6
SOUPER BOWL of CARING
It’s easy! Just bring $1 and come to your home church for morning worship. We need a few folks to help with our announcement and collection. Call Debby if you can help out. This effort will support the Daily Bread Food Pantry which serves the hungry in Northeastern CT. FYI- Rev. Da Vita McCallister will be preaching at the Hill today.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 13
SYG SUNDAY NITE
For youth in grades 9-12
7:00 TO 8:30 pm at the EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH. Invite a friend and join us for games and snacks. We’ll also discuss plans for our Missions trip to Boston Urban Outreach. Bring a deposit to reserve your spot for this trip!

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20
BREAKFAST CLUB
For youth in grades 9-12
9:45 am at EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH. Come a little early to serve as greeters before the service. Then join us for conversation over a cup of hot cocoa. We will meet in Fellowship Hall when the children leave for church school.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 26
ITALIAN DINNER
5:30 TO 7:00 PM at the HILL CHURCH. Invite your family and neighbors for a delicious meal. We need everyone to help to make this a success. You can sell tickets, bake bread (Friday 2/25), set up tables, decorate, prep food, serve, or clean up. [FYI—SYG workers get a free meal and Yes, you can ask a friend to work with you!] Money raised will help cover the 2011 SYG Budget.

SANTA'S SITTING SERVICE

2010-12-01T10:50:00.001-08:00

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11
9:00 am to 3:00 PM at the East Woodstock Church
For youth in Grades 7-12
Help with child care so parents can have some time for holiday preparations! You can sign up for either a morning or afternoon shift. Choose to help with baking, crafts, outdoor play, or story time. Proceeds will go toward our Boston Urban Outreach trip in March.

Giv2 Northeast presents "HOMELESS FOR THE HOLIDAYS"

2010-11-18T11:33:00.000-08:00

VISIT TO ACCESS EMERGENCY SHELTER
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5
**Bring an unwrapped gift for a teen age 12-18.**
This can be clothing, hats, gloves, games, or gift certificates.

Giv2 is for ALL YOUTH IN GRADES 7-12
Friends are welcome, so pass the word!

1:00 GATHER at the Westfield Congregational Church at 210 Main Street in Danielson.

1:30 GIVE We’ll bake Christmas cookies and walk to deliver them to the shelter in Danielson. Shirley Ryman of the Access Agency will be with us to tell about the ‘situational’ poverty that impacts people in our area.

3:30 REFLECT on what it would be like to be homeless for the holidays.

4:00 RETURN home to tell your story.

RSVP by Thursday, December 2 to reserve your spot.

We need adults to provide cookie dough, drive, and chaperon. Join our giv2 team!

Contact Debby Kirk at 860-377-2675 or email ddkirk@snet.net to volunteer or get more information.

NOVEMBER EVENTS

2010-11-04T12:10:00.000-07:00

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 3
STRESS FREE ZONE
For youth in grades 9-12
2:30 to 3:30 at the Hill Church
Drop in for a cup of tea or cocoa and some homemade cookies.
Take an after-school break and unwind before you dig in to homework.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 6
FRIENDLY BOWL
For youth in grades 7-12.
Help out with the Special Olympics Bowling Tournament in Brooklyn. We need folks to either escort the handicapped participants to the lanes or keep score for games. Meet at the Hill Church at 7:30 am to carpool to the Friendly Bowl in Brooklyn. The event ends at 12 noon. Bring a few dollars so we can stop for lunch and return by 1:00.

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 14
GAME NIGHT
For youth in grades7-12.
6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Hill Church.
Hang out with friends and try a new game. Gather in the kitchen to help us create a yummy blueberry treat for dessert!

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21
GOOD MORNING SUNSHINE!
For youth in grades 9-12
Bring an item for our Thanksgiving collection and help pack baskets to be distributed. Meet in the kitchen after worship.

October Schedule of Events

2010-09-28T11:46:00.000-07:00

DIG IN TO SERVICE WITH GIV2
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 3
For youth in grades 7-12. We’re going to the People’s Harvest Garden to pick fresh produce for local soup kitchens. Meet at the Hill Church at 12:15 to carpool. Lunch is provided. We’ll return by 3:30 PM.

MEALS ON WHEELS
MONDAY, OCTOBER 11
For youth in grades 9-12. Put your faith into action and help out with the meal at Community Kitchen. Come to the HILL CHURCH at 9:30 am. We’ll prepare a hot meal, transport it to North Grosvenordale, visit with the guests, serve lunch at noon, and return by 1:30 PM. Please contact Debby by Wednesday, October 7 to reserve your spot.

GAME NIGHT
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 17
For youth in grades7-12.
6:00 to 7:30 PM at the Hill Church. Hang out with friends and try a new card game. We’re making apple crisp for dessert!

LETTERBOXING
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 24
For youth in grades 7-12.
Meet at the EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH at 12:30 for an outdoor adventure. Follow the map to find the hidden box with a message. Bring your own sandwich and we’ll supply drinks. Get picked up at 3:30 PM at East.

MOVIE NIGHT
SATURDAY, OCT. 30
*Community Event* FREE movie at 8:00 PM at Palmer Auditorium. Woodstock Historical Society presents your favorite suspense story featuring Edward and Bella!
Rated PG-13. Refreshments will be on sale.

STRESS FREE ZONE

2010-09-28T11:44:00.000-07:00

For Juniors and Seniors
Wednesday October 6 and Monday, October 18
2:30 to 3:30 at the HILL CHURCH

Get off the treadmill for a few minutes! Take a break from school. Set aside the pressures of the college search. Recharge your batteries before you head out to work, lessons, or library. Drop in and UNWIND with a snack and conversation with friends. Come to either one or both dates. Call Debby for details.

giv2 northeast

2010-09-12T11:23:00.000-07:00

PLANNING TEAM MEETING
Wednesday, September 15
7:00 PM at the First Congregational Church of Woodstock
543 Route 169 in Woodstock

DIG IN TO SERVICE WITH GIV2
Sunday, October 3
People's Harvest Garden in Pomfret
Feed the hungry! Help pick vegetables to send to local soup kitchens. Youth in grades 7-12 are invited to join us for an afternoon of service and fellowship. Meet at the garden on Wolf Den Road in Pomfret at 12:30. Lunch is provided. Contact Debby Kirk at 860-928-3215 to reserve a spot.

September Events

2010-09-07T10:53:00.000-07:00

HOMECOMING SUNDAY
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12 Come to worship at 10:00 at your home church! Sign up for our youth group mailing list and pick up your FREE ~mystery~ gift.

PADDLE/RACQUET OLYMPICS
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 19
5:30 to 7:30 at the Hill Church
--for all youth in grades 7-12
Grab a buddy and team up to try some whacky racquet games-- ping pong challenges, birdie in a box (badminton for accuracy), volley volume, and more. We’ll also grill hot dogs for supper and make sundaes!

EAST BAY BIKE LOOP
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 25
Meet at the Hill Church at 12:30
It’s a smooth, scenic ride along the RI shore! We’ll stop for ice cream along the way and return by 5:30 PM. Call Kelly Bottieri at 974-1344 by 9/22 to reserve your spot. Bring your own bike, water bottle, and helmet.

FRIENDS are ALWAYS WELCOME at YOUTH GROUP!

Note: A signed medical release form is required for all Youth Group trips. Download a copy from your church website and bring it to our first meeting.

Log on to www.hillchurch.org or www.ewcchurch.org for info.

Compassion Camp 2010

2010-07-26T16:53:00.000-07:00

Monday, July 26
Learning to be a locovore-- picking berries at Woodstock Orchards.
Visit from Dot and Judy.

Tuesday, July 27
Senior Cafe at the Hill Church from 11 to 1.
Wear your purple shirt, sneakers, and bring a hat or hair tie. Lunch will be provided.

Wednesday, July 28
Unified Games with the Center of Hope.
Wear your purple shirt and sneakers. Bring water and sunscreen. Lunch will be provided.

Thursday, July 29
People's Harvest Garden in Pomfret
Bug spray, work gloves, and byo lunch.
Laser tag in the afternoon!

Friday, July 30
Second Chance Animal Shelter.
Wear your purple shirt, byo lunch.
Bring a donation for the shelter.

BAREFOOT SUNDAY IS COMING ON MAY 9

2010-04-02T10:33:00.000-07:00

SOLES 4 SOULS --
OUR NEXT “STEP” TO
HELP THE PEOPLE OF HAITI

Barefoot Sunday is coming on May 9.
We invite you to bring your gently used shoes and leave them at the door as you enter worship. Include $1 per pair to cover shipping costs. Shoes will be distributed to needy families by soles 4 souls. Please talk to Dianna Rebello if you would like to help out.

In the meantime, check your closets for extra pairs of footwear and log on to http://www.soles4souls to learn more about this amazing effort.

APRIL 2010 YOUTH EVENTS

2010-04-02T10:29:00.000-07:00

Sunday, April 4
EASTER SUNDAY
Come celebrate the GOOD NEWS! Join us for worship at 10:00 am or call Deb if you can help with child care.

Sunday, April 11
SHAKE, RATTLE, AND ROLL
6 to 7:30 PM at East Woodstock – for all youth in GR 5-12.
Back by popular demand—it’s game night! SHAKE—myo milk shake, RATTLE—we challenge you to a game of Bunko, ROLL—we’ll roll out our plans for our Soles4Souls project to send shoes to Haiti. Call a friend and carpool.
NOTE: There will be a special meeting for who are going to RYE in Boston will follow from 7:30 to 8:00 PM. Be there!

Sunday, April 18
SYG SUNDAY MORNING
Day McCallister, Associate Conference Minister for Youth and Young Adults for CT will be preaching at East Woodstock. If you met her at our Giv2 kick off, or heard her at the Celebration in VT, you know Day is an awesome preacher! Come for worship at 10:00 at East Woodstock and help as a greeter or usher. There will be time to talk with Day after worship so plan to stay for our “2nd hour” today.

Tuesday, April 20
GIV2 HITS THE ROAD
All youth in grades 7 and up are invited to join us as we prepare and serve a meal for the Community Kitchen in Putnam. Meet at the East Woodstock Church at 9:00 am and carpool. Bring a vegetable peeler, a hat or hairtie, and food donation. RSVP by 4/18 to reserve your spot

NEW ENGLAND REGIONAL YOUTH EVENT

2010-01-29T10:29:00.000-08:00

New England Regional Youth Event [NERYE]is coming!
June 24-27, 2010 at Boston University
Inside out/Outside in-- Finding our way in God's World
for youth who are currently in Grades 8-12

Kick off your summer with RYE, the New England Regional Youth Event! Meet hundreds of kids from all over New England, grow your spirit with dynamic worship and exciting workshops, spend a day doing service work in Boston, relax with swimming, basketball, a downtown Trolley Tour, and more!

Pick up your registration froms from Debby today or download from http://www.macucc.org/youth/NewEnglandRegionalYouthEvent.htm.
Workshop choices and $100 deposit is due on February 7.

FEBRUARY 2010 SCHEDULE

2010-01-29T10:13:00.000-08:00

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 7
SOUPER BOWL
It’s easy! Just bring $1 or some canned goods and come to your home church for morning worship. Our gifts will support the Daily Bread Food Pantry which serves the hungry in Northeastern CT.

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16
GIV2 IN PUTNAM
Come to our first giv2 event as we serve a meal at the Community Kitchen in Putnam. You can warm your heart and provide a hot meal for hungry folks. Meet at EAST WOODSTOCK Church at 9:00 am to carpool to Putnam. For all kids in grades 7-12. Download a permission slip from the church website.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 21
YM HUDDLE
11:30 to 12:00 at the East Woodstock Church. Come for a quick meeting to review RYE registration and make plans for the Italian Dinner.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 27
SYG ITALIAN DINNER
5:30 TO 7:00 PM at the HILL CHURCH. We need everyone to help to make this a success. You can sell tickets, set up tables, decorate, prep food, serve, or clean up. [FYI—SYG workers get a free meal and Yes, you can ask a friend to work with you!] Money raised will help cover the 2010 SYG Budget.

giv2 Kick Off

2010-01-29T10:10:00.000-08:00

giv2 Kick Off Event
Sunday, January 31
5 to 7 PM at the Hill Church

giv2 (Give Squared) is a CORPS of UCC youth +
adults GIVING back to our communities in response
to the GIFTS of God.

Together, we explore our faith
through SERVICE + FELLOWSHIP.

giv2 is for all youth in grades 7-12! Join us for music, games, dance breaks, power point, and a pizza supper. Rev. Day McCallister will be on hand to share info about this new outreach program.

JANUARY 2010 EVENTS

2010-01-02T11:33:00.000-08:00

STAR OF WONDER
Sunday, January 3
Come to morning worship at 10:00 am as we celebrate EPIPHANY SUNDAY-- the arrival of the Three Kings at the manger.
At East Woodstock—Pick up your “Star Gift” for 2010
At the Hill—Join us for our Christmas pageant followed by a Mediterranean buffet.

SKATING AT UCONN
Sunday, January 10
Dust off your blades and join us for some winter fun. We will meet at the Hill Church at 4:15 PM and carpool to Storrs. Cost is $5 for admission. Rental skates are available at $4/pair. Skating session is from 5:45 to 6:55. We will return to Woodstock by 7:45 PM. Friends are welcome but be sure to call Deb by Jan. 8 to reserve your spot.

DAY OF SERVICE
Monday, January 18
“Everybody can be great because everybody can serve.” -Martin Luther King, Jr.
Mark the MLK Holiday by giving your time to help others. Meet at the Hill Church from 9 am to 12 noon to assist with “Parish Care.” You can cook up a casserole for a shut in, make a get well card for someone who is sick, or even learn to knit a prayer shawl. Come for an hour or stay for the whole morning!

SLCC SUNDAY AND ANNUAL MEETING
Sunday, January 24
Come to worship at 10:00 at your home church this morning. We’ll have news about Silver Lake Conferences for summer 2010 and make important decisions about our church budget.

SYG SUNDAY NIGHT
Sunday, January 31
5 to 7 PM at the Hill Church
Come and find out how you can put faith in action in the New Year! Rev. Day McCallister will be with us to tell about GIV2, our new program for service work in the quiet corner. We’ll also have registration info for RYE, the regional Youth Event in Boston. Pizza supper included so please RSVP!

AND LOOKING AHEAD.......
SOUPER BOWL OF HUNGER
Sunday, February 7
Help us raise money for the Daily Bread Food Pantry. We need SYG members to usher at worship today!

CANCELLATION!!!

2009-12-20T10:55:00.000-08:00

Youth Group Caroling event for Sunday, December 20 has been CANCELLED due to the snow storm.

DECEMBER 2009 EVENTS

2009-11-27T12:47:00.000-08:00

Sunday, December 6
LOST AND FOUND CONCERT
4 PM in Simsbury.
Cost is $10 per person. For all kids in grades 5-12.

Saturday, December 12
SANTA'S SITTING SERVICE
9 am to 3 PM.
Youth in grades 7-12 are invited to assist with child care. Come and help us watch little ones so parents can get ready for Christmas. Call Debby if you can help with baking, crafts, board games, or outdoor play. Money we raise will help cover expenses at the Regional Youth Event in Boston.

Sunday, December 20
CAROLING
For kids in grades 5 and up. Friends are welcome! Meet at the Hill Church at 4 PM. We'll spread holiday cheer and return to the church for pizza supper. Get picked up at 6:30 PM

OCTOBER 09 EVENTS

2009-09-29T10:40:00.000-07:00

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4
SYG SUNDAY NITE
7:00 to 8:30 PM at the Hill Church. Join us for nachos, retreat slide show, and info about our upcoming outreach project. Friends are welcome!

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11
OCTOBER OUTREACH
WORCESTER FELLOWSHIP is outdoor worship and a shared meal with the homeless on Sunday, October 11. All youth in grades 8 -12 are welcome to join us. Meet at the EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH at 10 am to do food prep. We should return by about 3:30. Please contact Debby by Wednesday, October 7 to reserve your spot.

Even if you can’t make it consider making a donation.
-We need white socks for men and women. (Homeless people are on their feet all day and rarely have access to laundry)
-Snack items like chewy granola bars (Many clients have problems with their teeth)
-Juice boxes or cocoa mix.
Drop these off in the collection boxes at church

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 18
ARACHNOPHOBIA!
CORN MAZE AND COOKOUT-- For grades 5-12. Friends are welcome but be sure to RSVP by Wednesday, October 14 so we can line up enough drivers!
Meet at the Hill Church at 3:30 PM. We will return at 7 PM.
We will drive to the corn maze in Pomfret and then gather for a campfire/cookout after.
Cost is $5 per person.

SATURDAY, OCT. 24
CT UCC ANNUAL MEETING
We need YOUTH DELEGATES to attend the meeting of our CT Conference of the UCC in Middletown. Anyone in grade 8 or above who would like to serve should speak to Debby. The theme of this meeting is “Sacred Conversation on Race” and our new UCC President, Geoffrey Black will be the guest speaker.

September 09 Schedule

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SYG GREEN ACTION at the WOODSTOCK FAIR
Labor Day Weekend, September 4-7
Sign up today to help with our recycling project!
Last year we rescued over 60,000 cans and bottles from the landfill.
One CAN make a difference!

SYG RALLY
Sunday, September 13
6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Hill Church
Invite a friend and join us for an evening COOKOUT. Come for great food, music and games! Be sure to bring your retreat registration form and deposit.

FALL RETREAT AT SILVER LAKE
Friday, September 25 to Sunday, September 27
check back for details

May Schedule of Events

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SUNDAY, MAY 3
BREAKFAST CLUB
10:00 AM at EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH.
Come to worship and join us for breakfast and conversation in the Deacon’s Den.
We’ll also do some planning for our spring events.

SATURDAY, MAY 9
CT UCC ANNUAL MTG
All Day at Asylum Hill Cong Church in Hartford
Contact Debby Kirk if you would like to be one of our Youth Delegates.
This is a great way to learn more about the wider church. More info online at www.ctucc.org

SATURDAY, MAY 16
RELAY FOR LIFE
24 hours at the Woodstock Fairgrounds
Take a step and to show your support for those who are battling cancer. Come and walk with us after the luminary ceremony. Meet at the EWCC tent at 9:00 PM. You can speak to Susan Powers, Christine Lessig, or Rhonda Chenail if you want to sign up with the EWCC team.

SUNDAY, MAY 25
MEMORIAL DAY HOLIDAY
--No SYG event this week--

SUNDAY, MAY 31
SYG POTLUCK
5:30 to 7:30 at the HILL CHURCH
Gather for a great meal and hear about some ideas for summer fun! We need all SYG members plus our Youth Ministry Team tonight. Plus…… a SYG Slide show!

April 09 Schedule of Events

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Sunday, April 5
SYG SUNDAY NIGHT
7:00 to 8:30 PM at the Hill Church
Help us make invitations and plan the menu for our upcoming café event.

Sunday, April 12
HAPPY EASTER!
Come and hear the GOOD NEWS at 10:00 am worship at your home church this morning.

Wednesday, April 15
SENIOR CAFÉ
12:00 noon at the Hill Church
We’re fixing lunch for Senior Citizens today and we need your help! Let us know if you want to do invitations, shopping, food prep, or serving and hospitality. This is a great way to reach out to folks who live alone and would welcome some company.

Sunday, April 19
SYG GUEST PREACHER
Day Mccallister, Associate Conference Minister for Youth and Young Adults will be preaching at EAST WOODSTOCK. If you met her at NYE or our fall retreat, you know Day is an awesome preacher! Come for worship at 10:00 and help as a greeter or usher. We are also geting our SYG band together for this. Plan to stay for “meet and greet” with Day M. after church.

Sunday, April 26
MOVIE NIGHT
Dive in to some popcorn, relax with friends, and watch a show on the big screen! Check back here or look at our FACEBOOK page for specifics about time and place.

March 09 Schedule of Events

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SUNDAY, MARCH 8
BREAKFAST CLUB
10:00 am at the EAST WOODSTOCK CHURCH
Come to worship and join us for breakfast and conversation in the Deacon’s Den.

TUESDAY, MARCH 17
OUR MUSLIM NEIGHBORS
6:00 to 8:00 PM at the Hill Church. Supper included!
Face-to-face dialogue is the best way to break down barriers and find common ground. Come and meet our guests from the Putnam Science Academy and learn about Muslim faith practices.

SUNDAY, MARCH 22
SYG NEIGHBORHOOD SCAVENGER HUNT
3:00 to 5:00 PM at the Hill
Get at team together and test your wits.

SUNDAY, MARCH 29
AFRICAN CHILDREN’S CHOIR
2PM Concert at the Jorgenson Auditorium at UCONN
Meet at the Hill Church at 1:00 and we will carpool over to Storrs.
Call Deb by March 15 to reserve a seat. Cost is $10 with a student ID.
It’s great music for a great cause -- The African Children's Choir is a nonprofit group that helps young children, many of whom have been orphaned by poverty, war, famine or AIDS, to provide a better future for themselves, while raising funds for other needy children in their own communities.

February 09 schedule of events

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Please note-- we've moved! Our events will be held at the Hill Church for the second half of the year.

SUNDAY, FEB. 1
SOUPER BOWL
Our 8th year of participating in this nation-wide effort to ease hunger. We collected 328 canned goods and over $633 in cash. All this was delivered to Daily Bread Food Pantry in Putnam to provide hunger relief in Northeastern CT. Thanks to all who helped!

SUNDAY, FEB. 8
SYG SUNDAY NIGHT
7:00 to 8:30 at the HILL CHURCH. Celebrate Grammy Night! Who’s your favorite artist? Bring a sample to share for a fun night of music. Friends are welcome!

SUNDAY, FEB. 15
WINTER WONDERLAND!
Join us for an outdoor adventure! Meet at the HILL CHURCH at 11:30 and bring a buddy. It could be sledding, skating, or a winter hike, depending on conditions. We’ll build a bonfire and warm up with hot cocoa.

SUNDAY, FEB. 22
MOVIES THAT MATTER
4:00 to 5:30 at the HILL CHURCH. Bring a pillow and we’ll watch a show on the BIG screen. You call some friends and we’ll provide the popcorn!

SATURDAY, FEB. 28
SYG ITALIAN DINNER
5:30 TO 7:00 PM at the HILL CHURCH. Invite your family and neighbors for a delicious meal. We need everyone to help to make this a success. You can sell tickets, set up tables, decorate, prep food, serve, or clean up. [FYI—SYG workers get a free meal at 7:30 PM]

CITY REACH

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What is CITY REACH?
City Reach is a chance to learn about homelessness from people who are homeless or who those who have lived on the streets. All Youth Group members are welcome to join us for this powerful 24 hour immersion experience in Boston on Friday, January 23. We will offer hospitality, food, and clothing to guests at the Cathedral Church of Saint Paul. We will also participate in a street outreach team in downtown Boston.

The plan is to leave Woodstock at about 5 PM and return before dinner on Saturday, January 24. Cost will be approximately $60 per person. Registration information will be posted soon on the church website but speak to Debby Kirk or Charlie Bottieri if you would like to get involved. Grow your heart by serving others!

Youth Group will be collecting travel size toiletries, and socks, hats, and gloves for men beginning on January 4. Please leave your donations in the CITY REACH box at the church.

December 08 Schedule

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Saturday, December 6
SANTA’S SITTING SERVICE
9:00 to 3:00 PM at the HILL CHURCH
*****Note the change in site for this event*****
We need lots of hands for our babysitting project! Get a friend and sign up to work together for 2 or 3 hours (or the whole day). You can assist with cookie baking, holiday crafts, story time or outdoor play. This event will be a service to families in our churches and also raise funds for our trip to Boston in January.

Sunday, December 14
YMT, YC & SYG Convene
11:30 to 12:30 at EAST WOODSTOCK.
This will be our planning meeting for our winter projects: Caroling, Day Macallister’s visit, City Reach Missions trip, the annual Souper Bowl, etc. so we need lots of voices and ideas. Youth Ministry Team, Youth Council, and SYG members are urged to join us in the schoolhouse classroom upstairs after church.

Sunday, December 21
HOLIDAY CHEER!
This event has been CANCELLED due to forcast for severe weather!

SYG Schedule for November 2008

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Help wanted: Join the fun at our fall fundraisers.
EWCC “Holly and Harvest Fair” Saturday, Nov. 8.
FCCW “Christmas on the Hill” on Saturday, Nov. 22.

Sunday, November 2
COFFEE HOUR MEETING
Come to worship at your home church at 10:00 am.
Join us for a special coffee hour after church at EAST WOODSTOCK from 11:30 to 12:30. We need YMT, Youth Council & others to come help with lock-in plans.

Monday, November 10
MEALS ON WHEELS
Put your faith into action and help out with the meal at our local soup kitchen. Come to the HILL CHURCH at 9:30 am to prepare a hot meal. We’ll transport it to North Grosvenordale, visit with the guests, serve lunch at noon, and return by 1:30.

“Give us this day our Daily Bread”
A survey of food pantry and soup kitchen clients in CT revealed that 42% had to choose between paying for food or paying for utilities.

YOU can make a difference to neighbors in need!
Sign up today to help at the Community Kitchen on Nov. 10.

Friday, November 14
LOCK-IN
You asked for it!!! It’s a sleepover at church featuring a cool tie-dye project. Invite your friends and meet us at EAST WOODSTOCK.
7:30 PM on Friday to 9:00 am on Saturday morning.
Make sure to download your permission slip & RSVP by 11/12.

Sunday, November 23
SYG SUNDAY NIGHT
7 to 8:30 PM at EAST WOODSTOCK. Relax with some games, music, and snacks. Bring a friend and come and hear about our upcoming City Reach Trip to Boston.

ZAP!

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LASER TAG
Sunday, October 26

Meet at the EAST WOODSTOCK Church at 11:30. We'll have some food and then car pool to the Laser Zone in Danielson. Friends are welcome! Bring about $10 (games are $4 each and they have lots of arcade games as well.)
We'll return to East Woodstock at about 3:00 PM.

OCTOBER 08 EVENTS

2008-10-03T10:54:00.000-07:00

Sunday, October 5
SWAMPED?
Meeting at East Woodstock tonight from 7 to 8:30 PM
In over your head? Get some tips for handling those times when you are overloaded.

We are packing Clean up Buckets for Hurricane Relief tonight.
Bring some items from the list (see previous post) or a few dollars to help folks who were hit by recent storms.

Sunday, October 19
FALL FUN
Pumpkins, hot cider, and a spooky walk in the new Pomfret Corn Maze. Bring $5 and a flashlight.
Meet at East Woodstock church at 5:15 PM

Sunday, October 26
LASER TAG
Back by popular demand! Cost is $10 for two games.
Check the website for details about meeting time.

FRIENDS are always welcome at Youth Group!

2008-10-01T16:02:00.000-07:00

HURRICANE
RELIEF
PROJECT
Help us express compassion for neighbors on the Gulf Coast who have been slammed by recent disasters. Over the next few weeks our Youth Group will be collecting supplies to pack 5 Clean-Up Buckets. These will be distributed by Church World Service to enable communities to begin the overwhelming job of cleaning up after Hurricanes Gustav, Hannah and Ike. You can help by making a donation of cash or shopping for any of the materials listed below.
Please make checks payable to “Senior High Youth Group” so we can send one check to Church World Service.
1. An Emergency Clean-up Bucket includes:
2. One five-gallon bucket with resealable lid
3. Five scouring pads
4. Seven sponges, assorted sizes
5. One scrub brush
6. Eighteen cleaning towels (reusable, like Easy Wipes®)
7. One 50-78 oz. box dry laundry detergent
8. One 12 oz. bottle of liquid concentrated household cleaner (like Lysol®)
9. One 25 oz. bottle liquid disinfectant dish soap (like Dawn®)
10. Fifty clothespins
11. Clothesline, two 50 ft. or one 100 ft.
12. Five dust masks
13. Two pairs latex gloves (like Playtex®)
14. One pair work gloves
15. 24-bag roll of heavy-duty trash bags (33-45 gallon)
16. One 6-14 oz. bottle of insect repellent (drops or lotion, not aerosol)

it's not too late....

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to sign up for our FALL RETREAT at Silver Lake!
Friday, September 19-Sunday, September 21

Pick up forms and a packing list at our car wash on Sunday. [that's at EAST WOODSTOCK church from 11 to 1.]

It's a weekend of fun-- lots of outdoor games, great food, time to hang with friends, low ropes, night hike, campfire and more.

We have 17 registered so foar but we want more! Invite a friend and Sign up today! Cost is $85 per person.

also.... we are delighted to announce thatour own Associate Conference Minister for Youth And Young Adults, Da Vita "Day" MacAllister will be with us on Saturday.

HILL CHURCH YOUTH GROUP NEWS

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(place holder for youth group blog)