What we need for a great 2003!

     Last week we looked back at 2002; this week I want to focus on the future.  There are things that we need for a successful 2003:

     1. Prayer-It is very important that each person in this congregation commit himself/herself to prayer for the works of this church.  Nothing can be done without prayer.

     2. Awareness-Each    week   there   are               announcements from the pulpit,  reminders in class, and bulletin articles dealing with upcoming activities.  Please remind your children of the upcoming events.

     3.  Priority-I know that many of our young people are involved in extra-curricular activities that seem to take a great deal of time.  The work of the Lord’s church deserves priority.  There are many activities that  are  intended  to  build  spiritual maturity:   Evangelism University, Teen Leadership, retreats, etc. There are activities that are dedicated to service: WorkCamp, Fruit Baskets, Golden Age Banquet,   Caroling, Leaf-Raking. There are activities that are alternatives to worldly things “Fifth Quarters”, Jr. Sr. Banquet, etc.  I believe these activities are important and deserve priority. 

     4. Encouragement-There are some activities that may not be as appealing to your children.  They may need a little nudge from an adult to be involved.   Be an enthusiastic encourager.

     5.  Involvement-There needs to be involvement by everyone.  The young people are  involved by  participating, but involvement is not just for young people.  Anyone, regardless  of age,  can  help   this  youth  program.  By attending, note-writing, encouraging, hosting, driving, chaperoning,  etc., you are showing your concern. 

     This youth program is dedicated to the spiritual growth of our young people.  Luke 2:52 is still the basis for this program.  Jesus increased in: wisdom, stature, favor with God and favor with men. May our young people increase in these as Jesus did.  Through everyone’s commitment, and involvement, and the Lord’s blessing, spiritual growth will occur.

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     Thanks for the monetary gift.  I am privileged to serve a wonderful loving group of  God’s  people.  If the Lord wills, may this relationship continue.        In Him,   Craig