Orthodox Youth Ministries (OYM) Events – Release and Waiver Agreement
This Release and Waiver Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into by the participant and/or their parent or legal guardian (“Participant”) in connection with participation in any Orthodox Youth Ministries (“OYM”) event, activity, or gathering (each, an “Event”), whether hosted solely by OYM or in partnership with a parish, diocese, jurisdiction, or other ministry partner (the “Sponsors”).

1. Acknowledgment of Risk & Assumption of Responsibility
I understand that all reasonable safety precautions will be taken by OYM and the Sponsors during any Event. I also understand that certain risks, including unforeseen hazards, physical injury, or illness, may be inherent in activities associated with youth and young adult ministry events.
By signing this Agreement, I acknowledge these risks and voluntarily assume full responsibility for myself and/or my child’s participation in the Event.

2. Release of Liability
In consideration of the right to participate in the Event, I hereby waive, release, and discharge any and all claims for damages or personal injury, including accidental death, which may arise from participation in the Event. This release is intended to discharge in advance OYM, the Sponsors, and their respective leaders, clergy, employees, volunteers, and representatives from any and all liability.
I further agree to indemnify and hold harmless OYM and the Sponsors from any expenses, claims, or damages incurred as a result of claims, actions, or suits brought by me, my child, or on behalf of either of us, or by any third party as a result of any accident, injury, or incident occurring during the Event.

3. Medical Consent
If emergency medical treatment is required during the Event, I give permission for OYM and the Sponsors to undertake, arrange for, or consent to any treatment deemed advisable in their discretion. I agree to be financially responsible for all medical expenses incurred on behalf of myself and/or my child.

4. Photography & Video Release
Unless otherwise indicated by me in writing prior to the Event, I grant full permission to OYM and the Sponsors to capture, use, reproduce, and publish photographs, video footage, and interview recordings of me and/or my child (the “Media”) taken during the Event. I understand that this Media may be used in printed materials, digital publications, websites, livestreams, and social media platforms for the purposes of education, promotion, development, and fundraising. All intellectual property rights in the Media will belong exclusively to OYM.

Event Covenant Waiver Statement

I will hold myself to the highest standards of behavior while at this CONNECT Conference. I will maintain a Christian attitude and participate fully in the event. I will refrain from participating in illicit or illegal activities at this event and will encourage others to do the same. I understand that in the context of a spiritual retreat, smoking and unruly behavior are distractions from the purpose of this event, and I will refrain from participating in these activities during this event. I will adorn my body in a Christian fashion, seeking to display modesty and allow for the true focus of the event to hold the attention of others. I will respect myself and others and refrain from acting in any way as to cause discomfort or disrespect to others; this includes no men and women in each other's sleeping space. In return for my commitment and positive attitude, I will have the opportunity to interact with my peers in a weekend of fun and fellowship. I understand that OYM staff and conference leadership will do their best to provide an enriching environment in which I can thrive, both spiritually and socially.

I understand that the clergy, lay people, and young adult leaders supervising this event have the right to request I modify my behavior if they believe I am conducting myself in an inappropriate fashion. I further understand that failure to uphold this covenant may result in my expulsion from the event with the possibility of being asked not to return.