Chrysalis

            That growth stage between caterpillars and butterflies is called a chrysalis.  On the surface it may not look like much is happening, but the delicate chrysalis process changes the fussy caterpillar into an awesome butterfly with wings of intricate designs and intense colors.  The chrysalis process symbolizes how Christ can transform you into something beyond your dreams.  It happens when you grow beyond yourself, opening our life to Jesus’ power and love.

            Chrysalis is the name chosen for the youth version of The Walk to Emmaus, its parent movement, because it symbolizes the spiritual growth that is essential between adolescence and adulthood.  That growth is as crucial for youth as the cocoon is for the caterpillar.  It is that precious time of nurturing a person’s faith for discipleship.

            This three-day spiritual renewal time provides an opportunity for you to learn more about faith, to experience Christian love and support, and to make new faith commitments.  The point is to inspire, challenge and equip you for a closer friendship with Christ and for Christian action at home, church, school, and community.

            Chrysalis lifts up a way for you to enjoy Christ’s friendship and love and to be Christ’s friend and partner in the world.  The three days focus on God’s grace, your experience with Christ as friend, what it means to be the body of Christ, and giving love to a needy world.

What happens on a Chrysalis flight?

            You’ll spend three days with other people your age in worship, prayer, fellowship, creative expression, recreation, singing, and discussion.  You’ll experience the love of God through prayers and the acts of service from a loving support community.

            You’ll hear talks, given by youth and adults, which focus on the needs of maturing youth, offer the message of the gospel and the friendship and example of Jesus Christ.  Each day you’ll hear five talks, followed by discussion, reflection, and expression of how these messages can encourage your personal faith.  The discussions explore how friendship with Jesus can help you live out your faith with family, friends, and other people in your world.

What happens after Chrysalis?

            Just as a butterfly begins the exciting exploration of the world around it, after Chrysalis you will continue to explore the dynamic friendship God offers you through Christ.

            Following the three-day event, you are invited to become intentional about your faith through local church participation, small group studies, and interpersonal sharing groups.  These activities provide the fellowship and support for serving and giving love to your community and world.  Chrysalis invites you to build upon your experience the rest of your life, to spread your wings every day.

Who participates and why?

            Chrysalis is for the development of Christian youth who

·         Wish to gain a fuller understanding of God’s love;

·         May have questions about prayer, study, and Christian action;

·         Understand that being Christ’s friend, or a Christian, involves responsibility;

·         Are open to dedicating everyday life to God.

To learn more about Chrysalis, call the Chrysalis coordinator listed on the Contact Us page.