Young people are not just the church’s future—they are vital members of the church today. Though they still have much to learn, they are already serving, leading, and shaping the life of our congregation. When our youth minister, Annie, left, it quickly became clear just how essential strong volunteer support would be for the ministry to continue growing and thriving.
The support from church leadership and parents during that transition was tremendous. A defining moment came when Mary Bryant and I were entrusted to lead and chaperone the youth mission trip last summer. Canceling the trip would have been the simpler option, but instead, our leadership chose confidence and courage. Their trust spoke volumes—and God honored it. The trip became a powerful, joy-filled experience that created lasting memories and taught meaningful lessons to everyone involved.
“Watching God open our students’ eyes to food insecurity was an incredible blessing.”
Co-chaperoning was challenging at times, but watching God open our students’ eyes to the reality of food insecurity was one of the greatest blessings I’ve experienced. Serving in Grow Groups each week has renewed my own spiritual journey, teaching me to dream again and remain hopeful about what God is doing—and can do—through our youth.
This season has reinforced a simple truth: we are stronger together. Serving alongside other volunteers, each bringing their own unique gifts, has reminded me of the power and beauty of unified ministry. When we serve together, God multiplies the impact.
