What is the PIV Youth Leadership Gathering?
The Province IV Youth Leadership Gathering is a regional Episcopal event that brings together high school students and youth ministry leaders (lay and clergy) from across the Southeast for worship, leadership development, workshops, community-building, and fun. This gathering focuses on helping young people and adult leaders grow as thoughtful, faithful leaders in a changing Church and world.
Where can I register?
Links are up for registration and leadership sign-ups.
What does it cost?
For students and adults sharing a room, the cost is $370 per participant. For an adult who would like their own room, the cost is $465.
How can I pay?
You can pay with a credit card or indicate your intent to pay by check on our registration form.
Where will the event be held?
We will gather at Mikell Camp & Conference Center (a ministry of the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta) in the Southern Appalachian foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Who can attend?
The gathering is primarily designed for high school students, diocesan and parish youth leaders, and adult mentors and volunteers. Each diocese is eligible to send 2-3 student delegates and 2-3 youth ministry leaders. Additional guests will be accommodated on a space-available basis.
Middle school participation policies may vary by diocese. Please check with your diocesan leader for guidance.
What does “Follow the Question” mean?
This year’s theme invites participants to explore leadership through curiosity, honesty, discernment, and faithfulness rather than pretending to have all the answers. Together we’ll explore adaptive leadership, spiritual resilience, community-building, justice, mental health, and what faithful leadership looks like in uncertain times.
What happens at the gathering?
The weekend includes worship and prayer, interactive plenary sessions, workshops, affinity and discussion groups, games and recreation, camp traditions, free time and relationship-building, music and creative activities, and opportunities for students to lead.
Is this like summer camp?
Sort of, but with a stronger focus on leadership development and networking across dioceses. Participants can expect camp activities, meaningful conversations, interactive learning, free time, Episcopal worship, and lots of opportunities to connect with others.
Can students help lead?
Absolutely. Students are encouraged to participate in worship leadership, facilitate activities, shape discussions, share gifts in music or art, and even submit workshop proposals. Individual participants and dioceses can select where they would like to lead here.
What kinds of workshops will be offered?
Workshops are still being planned but may cover:
- justice and advocacy,
- trauma-informed ministry,
- mental health and faith,
- self-regulation
- youth leadership,
- and ministry in changing times.
Workshops are designed to be interactive and practical.
What should participants bring?
A full packing list is available on our Travel + Logistics page.
Are scholarships available?
Many dioceses provide financial assistance or scholarships for participants. Contact your diocesan youth missioner or parish leader for information about available support.
Will there be accessibility accommodations?
Yes. We are committed to making the gathering accessible and welcoming. Mobility assistance will be available as needed, and participants can indicate accommodations, allergies, dietary needs, and other support requests on the registration form. If you have other questions, please contact Holle Tubbs (htubbs@episcopalatlanta.org) in advance.
Who is hosting the gathering?
This year’s gathering is hosted by the Diocese of Atlanta in collaboration with other youth ministry leaders in Province IV.
Who do I contact with questions?
Please contact your diocesan youth missioner or Holle Tubbs (htubbs@episcopalatlanta.org) for additional questions, accessibility requests, or partnership opportunities.