Go Figure
Triennium changes lives
by Joelle Kopacz
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Common sense would tell us that Presbyterian Youth Triennium is a good thing. How could it be anything but good to gather thousands of Presbyterian youth and leaders from across the country to worship and grow in their faith? Yet you might still be surprised to see just how good Triennium is!
Those who attended the most recent Triennium (2013) have overwhelmingly been positively affected by the event, which has often prompted them to grow in their faith and to share this faith with others. Presbyterian youth report developing leadership skills to exercise in their peer groups and congregations.
Yet youth aren’t the only ones benefitting from Triennium. Among congregational leaders who attended the 2013 Triennium, many have been equipped with new energy and knowledge to help their congregations grow. Some have even developed new ministries as a result of Triennium. These leaders feel especially equipped to help their congregations strengthen their youth ministry, worship, and overall vision.
When asked what about the experience was so formative, 51 percent named relationships and a feeling of connectedness at Triennium. Another 31 percent identified worship as the most important factor.
The next Triennium is coming up in just a few short months. If you are a leader in your congregation, consider joining your church’s youth at this event. Worship with them, grow with them, and dream with them about the future of your congregation—and of the denomination.
Joelle Kopacz is a research associate with Research Services for the Presbyterian Mission Agency.
