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Faith! Fun! Food! And Friends!
In April, I stepped into the role of youth director, officially assuming the duties that had been entrusted to me. However, the seeds of this new journey were sown long before that pivotal moment. It all began earlier in the year when I received the news that our previous youth director would be leaving as soon as they found a new job. This revelation sent my heart and mind into a whirlwind of uncertainty and contemplation.
During those early months, even before our previous youth director's departure, I felt a profound stirring within me—a conviction that God was calling me to step up and lead our youth ministries. Despite having led a youth group during my internship and having served as a youth pastor in my previous congregation, I couldn't help but doubt my own abilities. So, I decided to reach out to those I had mentored in the past, seeking their honest feedback.
With genuine humility, I asked these former students a simple question: "As your youth pastor, what did I get right? And what did I get wrong?" The responses that came flooding in were nothing short of humbling. Students shared how I had played a significant role in their individual faith journeys, making scripture easily understandable and consistently just being fun to be around. Their words served as a powerful affirmation that emboldened me to officially step into the role of youth director.
Looking back, I am grateful for the path that led me to this point. I am now wholeheartedly committed to guiding our students towards a faith they can lean on when their parents are not there to lean on. I long for them to possess a faith that nurtures, directs, and comforts them when their parents are unavailable to offer guidance or solace.
My dedication to our youth community is unwavering. I am here to listen, to support, and to walk alongside each and every student on their unique faith journey. Together, we will navigate the challenges, celebrate the victories, and cultivate a faith that will endure throughout their lives. I am filled with gratitude as I reflect upon the incredible journey we have embarked upon together, celebrating both the joy-filled moments and the flourishing of faith. Looking ahead to the upcoming year, I am thrilled to share what we can anticipate:
In taking on this role, I have found profound fulfillment and purpose. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve our youth, and I am excited about the extraordinary possibilities that lie ahead.
Pastor Mark – Lead Pastor
In April, I stepped into the role of youth director, officially assuming the duties that had been entrusted to me. However, the seeds of this new journey were sown long before that pivotal moment. It all began earlier in the year when I received the news that our previous youth director would be leaving as soon as they found a new job. This revelation sent my heart and mind into a whirlwind of uncertainty and contemplation.
During those early months, even before our previous youth director's departure, I felt a profound stirring within me—a conviction that God was calling me to step up and lead our youth ministries. Despite having led a youth group during my internship and having served as a youth pastor in my previous congregation, I couldn't help but doubt my own abilities. So, I decided to reach out to those I had mentored in the past, seeking their honest feedback.
With genuine humility, I asked these former students a simple question: "As your youth pastor, what did I get right? And what did I get wrong?" The responses that came flooding in were nothing short of humbling. Students shared how I had played a significant role in their individual faith journeys, making scripture easily understandable and consistently just being fun to be around. Their words served as a powerful affirmation that emboldened me to officially step into the role of youth director.
Looking back, I am grateful for the path that led me to this point. I am now wholeheartedly committed to guiding our students towards a faith they can lean on when their parents are not there to lean on. I long for them to possess a faith that nurtures, directs, and comforts them when their parents are unavailable to offer guidance or solace.
My dedication to our youth community is unwavering. I am here to listen, to support, and to walk alongside each and every student on their unique faith journey. Together, we will navigate the challenges, celebrate the victories, and cultivate a faith that will endure throughout their lives. I am filled with gratitude as I reflect upon the incredible journey we have embarked upon together, celebrating both the joy-filled moments and the flourishing of faith. Looking ahead to the upcoming year, I am thrilled to share what we can anticipate:
- Faith: Throughout the ministry year, we will prioritize faith-centered teachings, ensuring that every week is an opportunity for spiritual growth. In the spring, we will introduce traditional Confirmation lessons, which will follow a three-year cycle. These lessons will serve as a meaningful milestone in their faith journey, deepening their understanding and commitment.
- Fun: Laughter and enjoyment will always have a place in our youth program. Rest assured, there will be an abundance of games and activities designed to bring smiles to their faces and create lasting memories. We believe that through fun experiences, bonds are formed and the joy of fellowship is strengthened.
- Friends: Our youth will have the chance to forge new friendships within our community. They are not only encouraged but also empowered to invite their own friends, creating a welcoming space where everyone can belong. Together, we will cultivate an atmosphere of inclusivity, where each person is valued and embraced for who they are.
- Food: Food has a unique way of bringing people together, fostering deeper connections and a sense of shared experiences. In our time together, we will embark on culinary adventures, whether making homemade pasta or crafting delicious pizzas. These moments of cooking and sharing meals will not only nourish our bodies but also deepen the bonds that tie us as a community.
In taking on this role, I have found profound fulfillment and purpose. I am immensely grateful for the opportunity to serve our youth, and I am excited about the extraordinary possibilities that lie ahead.
Pastor Mark – Lead Pastor
