Inviting you to explore...inviting you to grow...inviting you to be transformed.

The 2009 Summer Theological Academy will gather faithful and inquisitive rising juniors and seniors (those in either their sophomore or junior year now) for two weeks of exploring and discovery in community.

Summer Theological Academy Goals

* to amplify in young people a passionate, reflective, and constructive love of theology for the sake of God's world.
* to invite young people to listen for God's call to express that love in leadership, including leadership within the church.

Explore.....

* faith for real life in a diverse and vibrant community, as 20 high school sophomores and juniors in 2008-2009 meet for an intensive, two-week experience in Christian theological discovery

Grow...

* in dynamic learning with fascinating teachers, offering courses for the whole Academy and for intimate, seminar-sized groups

* in classic and creative worship, including both Morning and youth-crafted Evening prayer, Eucharist, special services

* in worship and service events, where God's praise is being sung, and God's justice and mercy are being enacted

* in reflection groups with wise and sensitive graduate student mentors, for sharing new insights and making faith and life connections

* in relaxed time and shared meals, in play, in interest clusters offering opportunities to create visual art, poetry, videos, dance and song.

Be Transformed...

"...before the Academy, I thought of theology as something in a textbook. Now I see it as a part of life, something you can put into practice."

"I am revived. Just meeting other youth like myself, who are interested in rejuvenating their parishes. It was cool to be encouraged about Seminary."

"The Academy is a place where your faith life can really grow and mature. It is a good place to take tough questions and thoughts. The Academy is a great experience.

"...an incredible, life-changing, eye-opening, faith-altering experience, one that will have a lasting impression and impact."

"...it was a faith-deepening experience that permanently changed my life for the better, and has energized me to keep trying new things. God is here!"

TUITION. In 2009, tuition for the Academy will be $600 per participant. Regions 7 and 8 will offer basic scholarship support, and additional support for those demonstrating significant financial need. Several synods also provide significant scholarship support. A refundable $50 deposit is also required.

Youth groups, Sunday schools, community groups and congregations are encouraged to assist with tuition. Synods may also be sources of scholarship support. Call or e-mail for more ideas!

PARTICIPANTS are responsible for their own transportation to and from the event, for the offerings at Academy Eucharists and congregation visits, and for extra food, gift and gear purchases.

If you are a current high school sophomore or junior:
A NOMINATION begins the process!

You are encouraged to speak to a pastor, or Christian education or youth ministry staff person about a nomination.

If you are a pastor or ministry staff person:
A NOMINATION begins the process!

Watch for, seek out, young persons who you believe would thrive on this unique opportunity, and discuss a nomination.

All nominees receive applications, which include a request for personal information, five brief essay questions, a pastor/nominator's recommendation and up-to-date transcript. There is no fee to apply, and admissions are rolling.

Mark your calendars for the 2009 Summer Theological Academy, June 27th – July 11th.
Nominations open November 15th, 2008.

Click here for a Nomination Form (PDF file)

Click here to use the online Nomination Form.

Nomination deadline is March 15th, 2009!

Forms are also available:

* by checking any ELCA Region 7 or 8 congregation
* by phone or e-mail request to TEY

Theological Education with Youth, a joint initiative of Lutheran seminaries, creates meeting places for theological and vocational discovery with high school disciples.