You are needed. Engage. Listen. Witness. Rejoice!

Just days after re-entry from this year's summer youth experience, it's a safe bet that I'll reflect on that experience. In the months to come, you will have the opportunity to hear the personal accounts from each of the 20 youth and seven adults who made the mission journey into the desert of southern New Mexico. You'll hear about the weather and working conditions. You'll hear about the schools where we stayed for sleep, food, play and worship. You'll hear about the residents of the homes on which we worked. You'll hear about the other youth groups who came across denominational lines and from around the country—especially Hawaii.

May I remind you: It is your privilege —even your responsibility—to ask these kids questions that allow them to share their stories with you. As the stories flow, you may be tempted for a moment to think you are hearing a “what I did on my summer vacation” report. The jokes might seem odd, the lingo specific to the participants and the whole thing a little too “insider” for general consumption. When that moment occurs, reconsider your role in the conversation. Rather than one who endures a story, you are the fortunate witness to a life changed by Christ.

These youth needed your support to embark on this journey. Every person in our group received Calvary support— financially and spiritually. You are now needed to witness how faith in action can elicit change—in individuals, youth groups, communities and churches. You are needed to witness the ways this group applies hard-fought lessons to back-home life. They need to share their journey with you. They need to know they are not alone. As they offer testimony to the ways in which they saw Christ work in them, allow Christ to work through them in your life, too!

—Carla Randle, Youth Pastor

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