Montreat Youth Conference 2024

By Helena Laukaitis

Montreat was a very special experience for me. It allowed me to connect with God through nature and friendships as well as activities that made it memorable. At Montreat we attended a keynote speech every morning . These keynotes featured a different topic each morning which connected back to the theme of the camp, “Planting Peace”. After the keynote we went to Connecting Group where we participated in a different activity every morning. Then I went to Small group. I would say small group was one of my highlights of this trip. My small group had about 15 people in it from all over the country! I got to discuss the keynote and worship from the night before as well as talking about our lives back home and creating friendships with each other. We had a lot of free time after that so we could rest up or explore the campus! The campus was absolutely gorgeous - there was a lake and we were surrounded by mountains in every direction. After break we went back to our Connecting Group and Small group once again before heading to worship. I found worship to be the most peaceful time of the day. In the sanctuary all the lights were tuned off and we all sang together  which I felt gave me a deep connection with God. From being at Montreat I learned that we not only connect with God through prayer but though friendships and interactions with fellow Christians. Montreat also allowed me to embrace all that God has created. The beautiful scenery and wildlife that surrounded me on this trip brought me closer to God and all his creations.