Month Two

Dear Friends and Family,

This past month has been a huge month of growth. From what I have heard, I really feel like I can relate this past month to a mother watching her child begin to develop a personality all their own.
The month began with a meeting of the minds, as it were, as our Strategy Team met to evaluate the overall health of the ministry that included a brainstorming session of programs. I was blown away by how God just showed up and took control and really made the heart connection for these leaders to the ministry. I get excited every time we talk about what it means to be Purpose Driven and not because I think it's a good system but because I really can see God's vision behind it. Here's a sampling of what we came up with that day:

• A new mission statement: Our mission is to lead students into an authentic and growing relationship with Jesus Christ that changes their lives, changes their friends lives, builds the Church, and impacts the world!
• New Ministry Name: First Student Ministries
• New Wednesday night program name: Elevate
• New Small Group Model: C.O.R.E Groups (CORE stands for Committment, Openness, Relationships, and Encouragement
• We also brainstormed lots of events that will encourage outreach of students to their unchurched friends as well as new and innovative ways to get new leaders involved!

Overall, this was an extremely successful day! The next weekend, we took a group of 11 students to do a challenge course and taught them about what it looks like to be purpose driven. I must admit, I was so nervous to present the whole "Youth Group vs. Youth Ministry" idea to them, but I found that they were very receptive to this. Since that week, we have challenged them to memorize the Mission Statement and begin thinking of 5 friends that they can invite to church on Wednesday. I'm now happy to report that we have seen healthy progress in both of these areas!

This is why I do youth ministry. I love to see them "get it." I love to see them passionate and on fire for Jesus. I love to see the way it impacts their family. But most of all, I love the way it honors God.

Love,
The Wopsles