FAQ - Cape Girardeau Stake Youth

Where are we going? We will be visiting Independence, Liberty Jail, Far West, Adam-Ondi-Ahman, and Nauvoo. A detailed itinerary will be forthcoming on the webpage at www.capegirardeaustakeyouth.com
When will we be leaving and returning? We will be leaving from the different ward buildings on the morning of Tuesday, June 27th (exact time forthcoming). We will return to the different ward buildings on the afternoon/evening of Saturday, July 1st. (Please arrange for transportation home.)
Who can attend? Youth of the Cape Girardeau Stake who will be 14 or older by December 31, 2023 are invited to join us, including those who graduate from high school in 2023.
How do I register? We will use online registration. You can register on the website at www.capegirardeaustakeyouth.com.
What is the registration deadline? Registration is currently open and will remain open through April 2, 2023. We encourage youth to register online as early as possible before the deadline so we have accurate information when finalizing reservations for buses, hotels, meals, etc.
What is the cost to participate in the trip to Nauvoo? The Stake Presidency has been generous and has set aside funding for this conference. Youth are not asked to contribute any funding to the conference. If youth would like to purchase souvenirs in either location those costs are their responsibility.
How will we get there? We will travel by rented passenger vans.
What accommodations will be provided? Various homes and bunk houses have been rented in each area. Youth are asked to bring a sleeping bag, pillow and towel as they will be spread out at different locations, each with differing levels of bedding. Please coordinate with stake leaders if you have any specific concerns.
Can parents or other family members attend? This trip is intended only for the youth of our stake and is not intended to be a family event. Should a family still choose to come to Nauvoo during the time period of the youth conference, they should not expect to participate in activities planned for the youth, nor keep their youth from these events.
Could I meet up with my family at the end of the Youth Conference in Nauvoo to leave on our family vacation? Activities to and from Nauvoo are an important part of the conference, and we encourage youth to attend. However, it may be possible to meet up with your family at the end of the conference. Advance arrangements with stake leaders will be necessary.
If I have a conflict, can I come for just part of the time? We would ask you to commit to attending the entire youth conference due to the complexity of making arrangements, providing accommodations, and ensuring for the safety of such a large group. Also, great activities are planned for each day, which you won’t want to miss!
Will I be assigned to a group? How will groups be assigned? You will be assigned to a group with whom you will participate in many of the conference activities. Each group will be led by an adult couple. The Stake Young Men and Young Women leaders will assign the groups, seeking inspiration from the Lord and taking into consideration ages, wards and gender to ensure there is an appropriate mix in each group.
Do I have to stay with my assigned group the entire time? You will be expected to remain in your groups during specific times, but there will also be several activities during which you will be combined with multiple groups or the entire stake.
How will the adult leaders be chosen? The Stake Young Men and Young Women Presidencies will prayerfully select adult leaders from members throughout the stake and have sought recommendations from Bishops and other leaders.
Can I bring electronic devices? Yes! Electronic devices (cell phones, tablets, etc.) are permitted as long as they are used in an appropriate manner and at appropriate times. In fact, they are encouraged to be used to take pictures and access scriptures. Note that electronic devices should generally be turned off/put away during any group discussions/activities and before entering the temple. In addition, adult leaders will collect electronic devices each night and will charge them for use the next day. We want this trip to be memorable for the time you spend with one another. Please make sure your electronic device does not distract you or others from participating and feeling the spirit as we visit these sacred sites. Bring electronic devices at your own risk, as we will not be held responsible for loss, theft or damage.
What type of clothing is appropriate? All clothing should be church standard. See Dress and Appearance in the For the Strength of Youth guidelines. Each youth will need one “Sunday best” outfit for attending the Temple. Please note that we will NOT be wearing Pioneer-period clothing.
What will we eat? All meals will be provided (except for lunch on the first day). Each youth will need to bring a sack lunch to eat on the first day. Each youth will be provided appropriate drinks and snacks on the trip, but you may bring snacks or money for personal purchases. Please be sure to include in your online registration any special dietary restrictions that need to be considered.
How will my parents contact me if there is an emergency? All adult leaders will have cell phones with them, and a list of emergency contact numbers will be provided to parents and ward youth leaders
What should I bring with me on the trip? Each participant is allowed one airline carry-on sized suitcase or duffle bag, a sleeping bag and pillow. A packing list will be available under the Nauvoo 2023 link at www.capegirardeaustakeyouth.com as we get closer to the departure date.
How should I prepare myself for our trip? The Stake Presidency will be issuing specific challenges that will be available under the Nauvoo 2023 link at www.capegirardeaustakeyouth.com. Completing these challenges will help you prepare. Our theme is the same as the annual Church Theme found in Philippians 4:13 “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” There may be some parts of this trip that require stretching. Focusing on Christ will help you to stretch and be strengthened, just as our early Pioneer forbears were stretched and strengthened. These challenges will also prepare you to commune with the spirit and strengthen your testimony during the youth conference.
Where can I find out more about the trip? Additional information will be added to the Nauvoo 2023 link at the www.capegirardeaustakeyouth.com website as the departure date approaches. Additional information will also be distributed through stake and ward leaders. Please feel free to contact stake leaders directly if you have any questions or concerns about this youth conference.