Memorial Day Retreat

There was heaven and hell at this retreat and it was amazing. Those of you who were there, know all about this. Those of you who weren't, well, you will soon see why! The teens made a movie. Making a movie might have been one of the coolest things we've ever done at a retreat. Instead of our usual sessions, teens worked together to created an original story that reflected an aspect of our Swedenborgian faith. Then they set up and filmed scenes. I know that some teens may not have been into it as much as others, and that some people may have missed our regular sessions; but, I think this was one of the most creatively exciting things the SCYL has done in a long time. The main movie theme that the teens worked on centered around love and relationships (including same sex and harmful), and how the decisions you make here on earth effect your future soul after you die.

Emily and Nina in "Heaven"
The main character, played by Nina, reflects on her past in her diary as she nears the end of her life. Scenes dramatize characters here on earth who later die and reappear in the afterlife. The scene of the ladies in hell definitely creeped me out. Adults may find the movie edgy and controversial. Some in the church may even find it a touch offensive, but it does represent the best of heaven and the worst of hell (both here on earth and in the next life). It is deeply personal, emotionally charged, and it reflects how teenagers look at, struggle with and vision relationships. Most importantly, it is uniquely teen and is not something that adults created or coerced. Teen energy and life force drove the production and it shows. I also think everyone gained some spiritual insight into the nature of heaven and hell. For me, this retreat helped me remember how real and seductively dangerous demons and hellish influences can be. The decision to choose hell over heaven is very tempting and the teens did an amazing job depicting this in their movie.

Nina, Audrey, Izzy and Molly in "Hell"

Celie and Cody took the video clips home and as editors extraordinaire, are working to pull it all together with into something meaningful and understandable. In addition to working on the main feature, the teens were also captured on video discussing religion, retreats as well as some singing and playing guitar. I can't wait to see the finished products as I am sure that several different versions will be created for different audiences and purposes. In one version, selected readings from Swedenborg's works concerning choice, freedom, community, heaven and hell will be added between scenes. I am so proud of all the teens and how hard everyone worked on this project. Everyone did something - writing, directing, acting, coaching, makeup, scene, set design, etc. Thank you all for making this a Memorial Day retreat to remember. Prior to the retreat, I wrote in the retreat flyer, "I have witnessed time and time again your imaginative, inspiring and original creations. You are gifted and beautifully spiritual. You are amazing! Bring sheet music, instruments and your own unique talent. It is time to share your gifts with the world." You clearly have done this and I am blessed to have been a part of that experience. You guys rock and continue to astound me!!!