DEPTH Youth Program knows that young people want to meet other young people. During DEPTH Partners-in-Service weekends, a host congregation from the Chicago area pairs with a different group from outside the area. Both groups are matched intentionally across some perceived difference - race or rural/urban, for example - and partner in a weekend filled with learning, service, worship and fun.

Together, the groups pick a Theme that is both interesting and relevant to their home communities. Separately, the groups prepare for the weekend using DEPTH’s Curriculum. Then, they partner to learn more about their theme and do a major service project with one of DEPTH’s Community Partners. These Community Partners share their experiences about doing ministry in the Chicago area by inviting DEPTH participants to help them with a project. Participants also learn more about college and seminary life as they spend time with CTS and Elmhurst student Hosts, CTS student Interns and CTS faculty and staff. The group then reflects on what they’ve learned through art, music and discussion so that they can better respond to how God is calling them.

The experience doesn’t end there. Each group will receive Curriculum to help them explore how their weekend topic is at work in their own communities and encourage them to continue responding to God’s call as ministers who make a difference at home.