Welcome to the Formation Leaders Updates page, your central hub for staying connected with the latest activities, resources, and events in the realm of spiritual education and leadership. Here, you’ll find regular updates on upcoming meet-ups, innovative teaching resources, enriching workshops, and collaborative opportunities that will not only enhance your leadership skills but also deepen your impact in guiding others on their spiritual paths.
Whether you’re looking for the latest trends in faith-based education or seeking to network with like-minded leaders, this space is your gateway to a wealth of knowledge and community connections, all aimed at supporting your vital role in spiritual formation.
FORMATION UPDATE
September 3, 2026
Dear Children & Youth Leaders,
As we begin a new program year, I wanted to share some of the opportunities we’re building for children, youth, and congregations across the Diocese. I especially want to highlight our Fall/Winter opportunities coming up.
Wayfarers: Youth Mentorship Program
Wayfarers is our youth mentorship program for grades 10–12, centered on Mentorship, Discipleship, and Leadership. Through retreats, mentorship, faith formation, and leadership development, young people are invited to grow as disciples and leaders within their congregations, the Diocese, and beyond. This is a new initiative and in response to what our youth are asking for—community, discipleship, leadership skills, and mentorship. Our first retreat is October 17–18 at Christ Church.
Have a 10th-12th grade youth you’d like me to send an invitation to? Let me know! Or, share the link to Wayfarers.
Youth at Convention — November 7
Youth at Convention brings our young people into the life and work of our Diocese. This year, our youth theme is “And Also With You,” and our Convention focus will be the Parable of the Mustard Seed. Youth will have opportunities to learn, serve, connect with one another, and share their experience with the wider Convention community.
You can find registration and information online HERE.
La Posada — December 18, 6:00–9:00 p.m. at St. Matthew’s, National City
La Posada is a joyful Advent celebration that invites us to enter into the story of Mary and Joseph as they journey toward Bethlehem, seeking a place to stay. This year, St. Matthew’s will host La Posada! Congregations will be responsible for RSVPs and required waivers for their own members. More information to follow.
And Also With You — Epiphany Youth Retreat (Grades 7–12)
Continuing our exploration of this year’s theme, And Also with You, Our Epiphany Youth Retreat will bring together youth in grades 7–12 for a weekend of community, worship, reflection, and fun. This is an opportunity for young people from across the Diocese to step away from their regular routines, deepen their faith, and build deep community while at Camp Stevens. Youth Retreat is over MLK weekend on January 16-18th. Grace-based pricing available*
God Loves the World! — Children’s Camp (Grades 3–6)
God Loves the World! is our children’s camp for grades 3–6, creating space for younger campers to build friendships, explore God’s love, nurture faith, and have a whole lot of fun together. Children’s Camp will be over President’s weekend (and Valentine’s Day!) on February 13-15th at Camp Stevens. Grace-based pricing available*
Grace-Based Pricing- We believe cost should never be a barrier to participation. We have named the actual cost of the event and invite families to discern what works best for them. If you can contribute a little more, your generosity helps make participation possible for another family.
Please let me know if you have any questions about these events. Both a youth and children’s EDSD event calendar will be coming your way soon—we are finalizing a few details for Spring! Plus, Youth retreat and Children’s Camp registration will be live soon! Details to follow.
Thank you for all the ways you show up for children and youth in your communities. I’m grateful for the ministry you are doing and excited about what we can build together this year.
Blessings, Leighton
Leighton Jones
Children and Youth Missioner
August 28, 2026
Here we are in the last few days of August and I am writing with some important updates for Fall! I know many of you will launch your program year in the next few weeks, and others have already begun. I am praying for you as you help people to grow in knowledge and love of God. Your ministry is important, and I am grateful for you! Below are dates and tools which may be helpful to you. Please let me know if I can support you in any way.
Please download this resource to plan your discipleship programs this year. It includes the readings for each Sunday, diocesan events, ecumenical and civic observances, and it tracks the liturgical seasons. I create this resource every year in April for the following program year.
Safe Church Safe Communities In-Person Training
To support as many people as possible in accessing Safe Church training, we offer in-person training twice a year. This in-person training meets the needs of those who are challenged by technology, or who would benefit from participating in community. The next training is September 24, 2026 at St. Marks Episcopal Church. Online training and Safe Church requirements are available on the Safe Church page of the website.
September 28, 2026 – 10 AM – 12 PM – Grace San Marcos 1020 Rose Ranch Rd, San Marcos, CA 92069.
Join Godly Play practitioners from across the diocese to create a story from the NEW Revised and Expanded Volume 8 of the complete guide to Godly Play. We will make Praying as Jesus Taught – The Lord’s Prayer. The cost of supplies is $15 and includes everything you need for the story. You can also create the story in Spanish and Arabic. Please register for one story per congregation, unless you have multiple Godly Play rooms; then register for one for each room. Contact me if you have any questions.
Children & Youth Update
Our wonderful Children & Youth Missioner, Leighton Jones, will send an update on Thursday, September 3rd, with links to many exciting programs, including Youth at Convention and a brand-new program, Wayfarers!
With deep gratitude for your ministries and your partnership,
Blessings,
Charlette
