Photo Essay: Living faith boldly: Youth descend on nation’s capital for week-long immersion program

Youth from across the United Church of Christ gathered in Washington, D.C. the week of June 14 for an inaugural program aimed to equip them with the skills and confidence to faithfully advocate on issues they care about most.

The program, Youth Voices: Bold Faith, is a collaboration between the UCC’s Office of Public Policy and Advocacy, and the UCC Network of Wider Church Youth Ministries (NOWCYM). Seventeen high schoolers or recent graduates were a part of this inaugural program, which began by exploring UCC history and the biblical roots of its justice work. This was followed by discussion of Hill advocacy strategies, all led by the D.C. office staff. They also had meetings with some of their elected members of Congress. 

“In the UCC, we believe our faith must not only be shared from the pulpit but also proclaimed boldly in the public square,” said the Rev. Michael Neuroth, director of the Office of Public Policy and Advocacy. “The young leaders who came to D.C. last week embodied the best of this tradition as they met with Congressional offices and lifted up UCC values in Washington, D.C. It was so inspiring to meet these young leaders and witness their passion for making the world a better place not only in the future–but now.”

“Their joy, songs, and laughter lifted my spirit in this challenging time, and their energy will remain with us for a long while,” said Neuroth. “I’m so grateful for the partnership and support of the NOWCYM, along with UCC churches and Conferences, that made this effort possible.”

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