Every summer, youth from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints gather at college campuses across the nation for FSY. BYU-Idaho is hosting some of these youth this week.
The acronym FSY stands for 'For the Strength of Youth.' The conference includes five days of lessons and activities, with a testimony meeting at the end where the youth can share their beliefs about the gospel of Jesus Christ.
Youth gather from all over Idaho and outside of the state to participate in the conference. It includes church lessons, devotionals and activities, such as a variety show, dances, games and more.
Kaleb Nebeker is attending FSY for his third year. He says the part of the week that stands out to him is watching people grow during the five days of activities.
"My favorite part of FSY has always been the testimony meetings we have because you just get to see all the growth from people," Nebeker said.
FSY counselors like Nebeker lead the youth through activities and lessons where the youth have these growth opportunities.
The counselors are young, single adult members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Many have served 2-year or 18-month church missions, but it is not a requirement to be hired.
FSY counselor and returned missionary Michelle Artrup is in her second summer of counseling. She says she hopes to create a Christ-centered experience for the youth she's leading.
"These kids are trying to learn about Jesus Christ and we want them to know about Him but we want them to know that they can know Him in a fun way,” Artrup said. “It doesn't have to be just in a seminary and Sunday school-type of way, but he's everywhere with us and I think that's the most important thing."
Artrup’s favorite part of the week is the Friday night testimony meeting and watching the youth build testimonies because it is an experience she has had at FSY as well. She says FSY has taught her to see Jesus Christ in the little things in her life.
FSY counselor Jaxon Larsen says FSY has also helped him grow closer to Jesus Christ.
This is Larsen's first summer but he's in his seventh week. He offers advice to people who are interested in counseling for next year.
"Be happy to be there. Love the youth. Have patience. Just being able to learn to love people, learn how to best care for their needs and make them feel loved has been really important for me,” Larsen said.
Larsen recommends any eligible adults who are interested in counseling to apply. Those who would like to be a counselor next year can find more details at FSY Conference Counselors (churchofjesuschrist.org).