Q. What is The Sound & Sand Encounter?
The Sound & Sand Encounter is a peace and reconciliation project that consists of two conferences/encounters in which young adults have the opportunity to meet believers their age from different backgrounds, to learn about their cultures, the importance of understanding, and how to seek reconciliation. These encounters focus on the unity we share together as brothers and sisters in Christ and our calling to be peacemakers.

Q. Where and When does this take place?

Part I: Gig Harbor, WA, USA Aug 1-12, 2010 

Part II: Camp Wadi Rum, Jordanian Desert April 21-25, 2011 and a week sightseeing in Israel and the Palestinian Territories prior. Americans should anticipate leaving Seattle April 14 and returning April 26.

Q. Who is it for?
30 young adults ages 20-25 (10 Israelis, 10 Palestinians and 10 Americans)

Q. What else is involved for Americans?
Participation in pre-Encounter trainings (in June/July), personal reading and reflection to educate yourself with the historical background and current situation which Christians face in the Middle East, and participation in a December 2010 reunion/special event in Gig Harbor

Q. What is the process for an American Young Adult to apply? American young adults interested in participating should read through the Encounter Requirements Q&A.  Next complete the following by March 15, 2010: fill out the on-line Go Team application, write short answers to the Supplemental Essay Questions, complete the Financial Commitment Form, and pay a $50 deposit (that will be applied to your balance due if selected). Chapel Hill’s commitment to this Encounter includes paying for most of the expenses. However each young adult participant is asked to contribute.

For Chapel Hill members/regular attendees the cost will be $1500 per person.  $200 is due upon acceptance, $500 due June 1 and the remaining balance of $750 due December 31, 2010. If you are not a Chapel Hill member/regular attendee the payment will be $3000 per person. This includes airfare and sponsorship of an Israeli and Palestinian participant. We ask that you invite your home church, university or work place to partner with you in this.  $500 is due upon acceptance, $1000 due June 1 and the remaining balance of $1500 is due December 31, 2010.

Fundraising options for all Encounter participants are available.  Once the application, essays, deposit, and fund raising commitment form are complete an interview will take place. 

Deadline for applications is midnight March 15.  Participants will be notified March 23.

Q. Could a student get academic credit for participating?
It may be possible to set up an independent or directed study with your college.  We suggest that you contact your academic advisor as soon as possible to discuss your interest.  You may also wish to explore if your college or university is interested/willing to help cover a portion of the cost for your participation.  Please let us know if we can be helpful to you in working with your college or university.  We would be more than happy to provide information about the learning environment and training participants will receive. 

Q. I still have questions -  who do I contact?

You can contact Kristalyn Simler This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it or by calling 253.851.7779.