A place where we were loved first — Reflecting on SPEC 2026

By Apostle Shannon McAdam

Imagine a place where instead of being judged first, you are LOVED first. Imagine the risks you might be willing to take, the new things you'd try, the relationships you'd build if "Love First" was the rule that everyone lived by.

"Love First" was the theme for the week-long youth camp for Community of Christ youth and their friends that I got to attend as staff from July 11–18, 2026. This was my second year as staff for this camp, and I again was amazed by what a supportive and kind community formed in such a short time.

For my part, I offered a daily "Adventure Class" in embroidery where youth got to tell their story through a project unique to them. Thanks to lots of donated and thrifted materials, more than 40 campers made meaningful projects to take home with them. Campers of all genders attended, and most of them had never done embroidery before. We also made an altar cloth for the communion table as a group project.

Most of my time, though, was spent cheering on youth, which I love doing. From applauding many a great volleyball rally to hyping up campers about to audition for the talent show, I got to recognize their hard work and encourage our young people to try new things. It was incredible to witness their willingness to step out of their comfort zones and meaningful to see them cheer one another on as well.

More than 11 youth and two adult chaperones from Canada attended Spec this year with the Northwest delegation, who enthusiastically welcomed their Canadian siblings with open arms. Our Canadians did incredibly in a wide variety of activities, representing Canada very well. Many thanks go to the individuals, congregations, and the mission centre for financially supporting these folks to travel and experience the transformative Spec community.

Next year will be extra special as youth from around the world will gather for three days before Spec at our Community of Christ Temple in Independence, Missouri, for the International Youth Forum (known as IYF). It will be the first time since Covid that IYF has taken place, and I am looking forward to seeing how even more youth from Canada and across our Aurora Belt field will be able to partake in loving, sacred, multi-cultural community.

So think about youth in Grades 9–12 who you think would benefit from this transformative, inclusive experience, and let them know to put two dates on their calendar for 2027: July 7–9 for IYF, and July 10–17 for Spec. And think about what you might do to help them go, maybe volunteering your time and talents, or through financial generosity. Together let's make 2027 a memorable year for even more of our youth!