Youth and Young Adults

It is often said in church circles that “young people are the future of the church.” In the Diocese of Western New York, we believe that young people are the church now. We seek to provide quality programming that is accessible and valuable to youth from each of our congregations. Contact Youth Missioner, Wendy Schumacher (wschumacher@episcopalwny.org or (716) 830-5443) for more information on any of the events and activities for children, youth, and young adults.

Sleep Away Camp 2026

Summer Camp is a long-standing tradition in the Episcopal Diocese of Western New York, and we are delighted to share that planning is underway for this year’s camp. Sleep Away Camp will be held August 9–12 at the Lake Chautauqua Lutheran Center in Bemus Point. Camp is open to all youth currently in 2nd through 12th grade, and campers will be divided into three groups based on grade level to ensure age-appropriate programming and activities. and the cost is $275.

Theme: “God’s Dream Team: Includes You and Me” During their recent listening session with the Search Committee, our youth shared that they were not very familiar with the variety of roles within the Church and the responsibilities each carries. This year, we will explore the many people who make up the Church — clergy and lay leaders alike — and how we work together to live out Christ’s mission. Our goal is for every camper to leave knowing, without question, that they are an essential part of God’s work in the world. We look forward to another joyful summer of faith, friendship, and formation at camp!

REGISTER for Summer Camp!

DOWNLOAD a Flyer!

Camp Staff Opportunities
We may be in need of additional staff this summer. If you are 18 or older and feel called to serve at diocesan camp, please reach out to Youth Missioner, Wendy Schumacher, to explore whether this ministry might be a good fit.
All camp staff must:
1) Be up to date on Safe Church training
2) Complete a background check
Staff may report as early as 7pm on August 7, but are required to arrive no later than 2pm on August 8.

Youth United in Ministry (YUM)

Youth United in Ministry started in 2024 as a collaboration between 5 churches and Youth Missioner, Wendy Schumacher. Youth in grades 5 – 12 from the five parishes gathered monthly, rotating churches, for fun, fellowship, food, and worship. The ministry has expanded and is open to all youth in the diocese. Our next YUM gathering is March 1, 2026 at St. Matthias in East Aurora. DOWNLOAD Schedule

Niagara University, DeVeaux Scholarship

Awarded to qualified students from the Episcopal Diocese of Western New York to undergraduate students attending Niagara University .  A letter of recommendation is required from the Clergy or Warden of your parish. Contact the Financial Aid office of Niagara University (716-286-8686) for details.

2026 Acolyte Festival

The National Acolyte Festival will take place on October 10, 2026 at Washington National Cathedral. Acolytes, servers, and vergers from across the Episcopal Church are invited for celebration, fellowship and workshops. More details and registration coming in April.

Episcopal Youth Event (EYE)

EYE is the triennial gathering of young people and their sponsors from every diocese of the Episcopal Church. It is a celebration to inspire deeper faith in Jesus Christ and a renewed commitment to mission and ministry. It is the single largest youth event in the Episcopal Church, attended by some 1500 young people, adult sponsors, bishops, staff, and resource people. EYE is an opportunity to meet other young people from around the world and experience the church on a global level. The next EYE that was slated for 2026 has been postponed. More information to come..