FROM YOUR PASTOR...

Last week I shared with you some of my thoughts regarding Youth Ministry, and I appreciate the comments that you have shared with me.  On the basis of one of those comments, I've made an addition to the definition of Youth Ministry -- Youth Ministry is everything done in and through the church that is for, by and with youth.  Some of the other beliefs about Youth Ministry are: (1) it is based on God's acceptance and love for each person regardless of age or any other factors; (2) Youth Ministry has its task enabling people to reflect upon their lives from a Christian perspective and choose the lifestyle which will reflect their faith decisions; and (4) finally it is focused on the present because today is where we live and move and have our being.

This week I want to share with you some of the ways in which you can be supportive of this very important ministry in our congregation.  Generally speaking, we can support our youth ministry with our spiritual, human and financial resources.  By this I mean several things: (1) please pray for the youth who participate and the adults who work with them; (2) share your ideas about the youth program; (3) volunteer the use of the resources you have (e.g.  books, films, professional skills and expertise, a lake or river cabin, help with transportation); (4) provide feedback which will help both youth and their sponsors to see the strengths and weaknesses of the program; and (5) be willing, when asked, to serve on the Youth Committee or subcommittee.  These are the general areas and ways in which we can all support the Youth Ministry of our congregation.  I invite all of us to give serious and prayerful consideration to the part or parts that we can take in order to insure the success of this vital ministry in this church.  As always, I invite and welcome your thoughts, comments and suggestions.

Love & Blessings,
Wes