08368
May 9, 2008

Registration deadline nears for Multi-Cultural Youth Conference

by Jerry L. Van Marter
Presbyterian News Service

LOUISVILLE — May 15 is the discount-price registration deadline for the 2008 Multi-Cultural Youth Conference, July 3-6 at Mo-Ranch Conference Center in Hunt, TX.

Billed as a youth leadership event “with true diversity,” the conference has been sponsored each year by the Synod of the Sun in cooperation with Mo-Ranch and the synod’s Joint Ethnic Councils. Joining as a co-sponsor this year in an attempt to “go national” is the General Assembly Council’s Office of Multicultural Ministries.

Participating ethnic groups include the synod’s Agency for Indian Ministries (AIM), African American Council (AAC), Asian Coordinating Council (ACC), Hispanic American Ministry Council (HAMC) and Anglo Americans.

The theme for this year’s event is “Serving Time for the Lord.” The conference is open to young people who have completed the 6th grade through those who have just graduated from high school and their adult sponsors. The Multicultural Ministries Office has made funds available to provide scholarships to groups from outside the Synod of the Sun who wish to attend. 

Keynote speaker is the Rev. Andrew Wong of Fort Worth, TX, with music from the Rev. Kenny Davis and recreation led by Nikkie Lee. According to organizers, other conference highlights will include:

• the chance to attend a conference with true diversity;
• small groups where youth will have the opportunity to get to know other youth from various cultural backgrounds;
• a “Cultural Celebration” to enjoy unique food and performances from the cultures represented at the conference;
• the chance to enjoy Mo-Ranch and the beautiful Texas Hill Country; and a host of other activities. 

Cost for the conference is $159, before May 15, which includes housing, meals, tuition, a water bottle and a conference tee shirt. After May 15, the cost is $184. For more information about Mo-Ranch and the conference go to www.moranch.com, click on the “Calendar” tab and then click on the Multi-Cultural Youth Conference link.
For scholarship information and other inquiries, contact Rev. Clayton Rascoe, Chaplain Program Director, at (800) 460-4401 x242 or claytonr@moranch.com.