Hello to all F(f)riends!

In the beginning, there was nothing, then there was something. Then there was the OVYM teen group. And it was good.

This year at OVYM we engaged in a variety of activities that followed our agenda. The first day the teen group all did circle activities to get ourselves acquainted with each other. We got to know two new assistants to the teen secretary, James Taylor and Rachel Dean.

For the annual canoe trip, events were reported as "action packed," "thrilling" and "bug-infested." We all had fun and bonding time. We had a productive business meeting where we appointed two new committees for the epistle and Simply Speaking. We also appointed a new clerk and recording clerk. In the evening, JT (James Taylor) held HIPP (Help Increase the Peace Process) sessions. Teens also had the option of going to the Icthys House, to which many went. Discussions were held and many felt bonded to JT.

On Friday we were visited by Bob Schmitt and by the end of his presentation, many felt spiritually enlightened as we had shared each other's gifts. Later that day we attended workshops, one of which was the teen led workshop, "Living in the Power" and was mostly concerned with the balance of power in the government. Friday evening we listened to Bob Schmitt's plenary speech. Three teens served on the panel of elders for Bob.

Saturday was a day of service. We went to the Lauramoore retirement home to help set up a garage sale. Having done that, we split into two groups doing painting and gardening.

Simply Speaking, a discussion forum between teens and adults over relevant issues, this year covered age discrimination. The teen skit at the variety show included benches and a hobo.

Overall we had fun, developed deeper relationships and grew spiritually.