Dear Saint Dunstan’s Family,

Can you believe I have been the Interim Coordinator of Youth Ministries for six months? The time has simply flown by. There have been so many fun events - a back-to-school lock-in; a family potluck and kickball game back in September; a day of games, fellowship, and fun during Fall Break; and most recently an outing to see the Klein Collins production of Mean Girls. 

I enjoy spending time with all these wonderful young women and men. You probably already know this, but both my children and my two nieces are members of the youth group. It is so meaningful to be able to play this role in their spiritual journeys and that of their friends. 

Every Sunday morning and night, I am amazed by the depth of thought in the responses to questions during our Bible study. I am overcome with pride when I hear a youth say kind and encouraging words to someone who is having a rough day. I experience joy when they announce an accomplishment - acing a test, winning a competition, earning a spot on the team, etc.

When I was a teenager, my dad was around the age I am now. He used to come to our Youth Events at the church and he served as a Band Dad (carrying heavy equipment and instruments for the marching band). Dad always drove my friends and I to movies and outings and he always encouraged my friends to hang out at our house to watch movies and play games and such. Dad said spending time with all us teenagers kept him young. I have to say that I agree. Spending time with the youth energizes me. When I see them facing difficult tasks, like final exams, applying for college, and making a thousand different decisions that will determine the adult they will become, it reminds me that I too can do difficult things. 

I guess what I am trying to say is thank you. Thank you Saint Dunstan’s for entrusting me with the Youth Program. For giving me the opportunity to work with these amazing young people. Thank you for all your kind words, prayers, and donations (of your time, money, and even household materials). 

I continue to look toward the future. We are beginning our annual Youth Stock Sale. Please consider purchasing stock in the Saint Dunstan’s Youth, providing support for our Youth who will be attending Camp Eagle or the Mission Trip to Bayou la Batre, AL this June. We have a wonderful group of kids who will grow in their relationships with God through these pivotal experiences. https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=SENXSE2GEYTZG&source=qr

We will be having upcoming social events, including a day-time lockin on Good Friday, and will continue to have weekly Sunday School and Sunday Evening Youth Group. Please continue to remember the Youth in your prayers.

I would like to close in a prayer for youth from Christianpure.com:

Lord, we thank You for the young people in our lives and ask that You bring them a deep understanding of Your love and peace. Give them strength and courage to stand firm in their faith and protect them from any temptations or doubts that may come their way.  May they be filled with your spirit and greater knowledge of your salvation. Guide them to make wise, righteous choices and to lead a life that is pleasing to you.

We thank you, Lord, for our young people’s gifts and your faithfulness in their lives. May you continue to bless and guide them on their journey, bringing them closer to you in love and spirit. In Jesus’ name, we pray,

Amen.