Why have a Youth Group?
When I was in 7th grade I was kind of a loser. I read an average of 2 novels a week by the handball courts of my Junior High, often alone with a sack lunch of yogurt and tomatoes that I packed from home (yuck!). I remember feeling really out of place most of the time. I felt like nobody really understood me…. Week by week, the days often felt arduous.
Except on Sundays- On Sundays at my church I ALWAYS felt accepted by peers. I had an amazing support group of Adults who really seemed to notice and care about me. I was challenged to “think” and ask questions about my beliefs, and I was also given many opportunities to develop my faith and lead others in ministry. It was also a time when I could just “hang out” with people who really seemed to care. And on occasions it was a place where I could travel to new places, see good movies, and play goofy games! It was a place I called “UMYF” or “United Methodist Youth Fellowship”. It was in this group where I found a safe environment where I was accepted, loved and valued.
Flash forward 15 years later- I no longer eat alone, instead many of my closest friends today are those I grew up with at UMYF. I find myself here at NUMC with an amazing chance to work with teens who might find themselves at a similar crossroads in life and it is my goal and privilege to help nurture another “UMYF” group for a new generation. What a blessing to be at a church where I feel encouraged and supported to make ministering to youth not just my passion by also my career!
In the next few months I will be working with like minded Parents, Youth and Congregants to grow and develop this ministry. I welcome all your ideas, thoughts and enthusiasm and invite you to join me on this journey!
Katherine Stanfill (Director of Christian Education)- Katherine@northridgeumc.org
posted by Katherine! @ 10:37 AM
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