Photos: Youth @ Synod- Communion Service Ends with Inspiring Dialogue with UCC GMP, Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson

Sunday morning at General Synod 35 brought another unforgettable worship experience for the Youth@Synod, centered around Communion and Baptism.

The service began with another original performance by KinShift Music, setting the tone for a vibrant and reflective time of worship. Youth participated in the call to worship and then gathered to receive Communion together.

In a youthful twist, participants were given the option to receive traditional communion wafers, or a snickerdoodle cookie to satisfy their early-morning taste buds.

Prior to Communion, youth lined up to receive a symbolic keepsake—a small shell drawn from a bowl of water—serving as a reminder of their baptism and their spiritual journey at General Synod. The simple yet meaningful offering gave a powerful moment of reflection and belonging.

After worship concluded, the youth welcomed a special guest: UCC General Minister and President/CEO, the Rev. Karen Georgia Thompson. In a relaxed and engaging Q&A session, where the youth were invited to ask questions and share conversation with the denomination’s leader.

Though hands were hesitant to rise at first, the dialogue quickly gained momentum. Questions flowed, and the conversation became lively and insightful, with the 20-minute session passing in what felt like seconds.

The combination of communion, baptism, joyful music, and open dialogue made Sunday a meaningful and memorable day for the youth at Synod, one that will surely resonate with those in attendance, young and old, long after they leave #UCCSynod.

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