A dictionary definition for an oasis is "a refuge, relief, or pleasant change from what is usual." And for more than 100 young adults who packed to capacity the McAninch Arts Center at the College of DuPage, the Illinois Conference Camp Meeting offered an oasis for young adult worship in May.

Supported by the conference's youth and young adult leadership, a group of passionate, Chicagoland young adults organized this first-ever camp meeting event fashioned for their peers. Especially tailored for 18–35 year olds, the Sabbath gathering featured worship band, Oikos Principle 2.0, and A. Allan Martin, co-founder of www.GODencounters.org.

"During the sermon, I learned a lot. I felt as though the speaker was speaking directly to me. Just the jump-start I need," noted Debi Kotz, a stay-at-home mom. "Besides being with a group of friends I had met previously, I also met a whole new group of people [who] were so extremely friendly— people I would very much like to get to know."

Sensing the need to create community in the Chicagoland area where young adults can be involved in service and grow spiritually, the young adult camp meeting organizers created a ministry. The ministry is OASIS (www.myspace.com/oasiss07). Their goal is for OASIS to be a refuge—a pleasant change from the frantic pace of life—as well as a place where young adults can grow in their relationship with God and with each other.

"I am still a visitor to this church," continued Debi, "but I can see that OASIS will definitely reach others, specifically young adults, and show them that being a Christian does not mean you have to be stuffy."

"The fact that OASIS is a group of [young adults] is great," endorsed Christina Mathai, a young adult from the Northbrook Church. "Through different programs and things with local churches, many people can get to know about OASIS and hopefully get closer to God. [OASIS] will really encourage all young people."

Currently, OASIS is meeting monthly to develop opportunities for young adult ministry and fellowship. In addition to local activities, young adults are invited to join OASIS on Cruise With a Mission (www.cruisewithamission.org), December 16–23. This is a "vacation with a purpose" specifically for young adults ages 18–35, where there will be service and mission opportunities at each of the Caribbean ports of call.

When asked what the highlight was for her, Debi shared, "I just liked seeing young adults who actually love God and want to do something about it."

For more information or to become involved and support this emerging ministry please contact oasiss07@gmail.com or www.myspace.com/oasiss07.

Elisa Brown is an OASIS ministry leader.