VOCARE

Vocare, from the Latin word meaning “to call”, is a weekend for young adults. The Vocare weekend focuses on Christ in our everyday life. A relaxed, supportive atmosphere will give us a chance to reflect on our callings and consider subjects such as: Authenticity, Reconciliation, Spiritual Journey, Community, Vocation, Empowerment, and what it means to be a Christian. During the weekend, you'll be encouraged to ask questions, speak up, laugh, and enjoy the presence of God in our midst.

Vocare retreats are offered by Episcopalians all over the country. In 2006, young adults from New Jersey, New York and South Carolina came to help launch the first Vocare in Maine. Also, four young adults from Maine traveled to other states to experience Vocares. Our aim was to create a weekend different from anything ever offered before in Maine or New England.

At Vocare, you will be put in discussion groups with people your age (ages at Vocare 2006 ranged from 19-35) and asked to explore questions such as: What should I be doing with my life? How will I create a balance that will allow me to live in harmony with creation and the needs of the world? Christians are called to grow throughout our lives, loving God with all of our heart, soul and mind. How are we going to gain the skills to answer Christ's call?

Any young adult who is trying to listen for God's guidance in their life is welcome. This is not a weekend for people who wish they could attend a teenage event like Happening or TEC. It is also not a reunion. This is a spiritual weekend for young adults. There are periods of silence and times of community – discussions and personal reflection. There is creative worship and music. Vocare will give you time to listen to God in your heart, in music, in scripture and in the voices of others.

Most people make a commitment to be at the beginning of the weekend and to remain for the complete experience. However, there were a few people who were only able to attend Friday night and a few who came in to cook a meal during hte weekend. A hearty snack will be available when you arrive, but please eat dinner before you come. People will settle in and snack before the program begins, and we will be staring on schedule, even if everyone isn't there. So please be on time!

If you are interested in upcoming young adult events, there may be information at Hot News, and an application at the Current Applications page.