Youth Leadership Symposium
Loving the Earth
By Eliza Wall
Irvine United Congregational Church
Irvine, CA
“I learned more about myself and what kind of leader I really am.”
- Eliza
Overview: Eliza planned and led Sunday School for the congregation’s children. They learned about the importance of caring for and loving the earth and celebrated all of the things the earth does for us. Afterwards, they planted flowers which the kids took home to take care of.
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In Reflection: I decided to focus on the Earth because I love planting and growing things and I have very fond memories in schools of planting flowers. I really enjoyed doing this activity and it inspired me to be a better leader.
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More Details: Eliza considered multiple projects and then chose one that would not happen without her. She got to navigate the committee structure of her church and coordinate with her peers in the youth group. Eliza loves working with children at church and at dance, so there was no doubt that her project would be aimed at serving that community. She reports that one of the unexpected joys of the project was the time for casual conversation while they potted.