Fall UMYF Kick-Off

The first day of school signals the end of summer. It seems like the time just flies by!

Last week our confirmation class experienced thier Week of Welcome (WOW) into the youth program. That's one of the things I love about youth ministry. Each year a group of enthusiastic sixth graders infuse engery into the program. And the promotion to upper grades seems to produce older and wiser students. And thus, the circle of life continues in youth ministry.

The UMYF kick-offs remind me of the many reasons we have to celebrate our students, parents, leaders and church. I never want to take these blessings for granted. I often move so quickly from event to event, I forget to celebrate the joy I have in my serving FUMC. What a missed opportunity to affirm what Jesus is doing in and through us.

So as we begin another school year, let's look over the summer and see what needs to be celebrated. I will name a few:

     A significant mission trip
     Camp Sunshine
     dynamic worship
     faith development in students
     young adults hearing God's call
     planning retreats
     Class of 2013 moving on to college
     WOW
     the work God is doing in my own life
     publishing a new book, The Faith Line

     add your personal favorite

We celebrate a God who is faithful to complete the good work He began in each of us and our ministires.

And now we can move forward to the 2013-2014 school year because we have paused to reflect and give thanks.

   
    

We did school before it was cool

I am not prone to brag about my accomplishments, or in this case the church's; but I feel compelled to give us a "shout out."

Fifteen years ago First United Methodist Church began adopting a local school to provide reading tutors, lunch buddies, mentors, school supplies, coats, sports equipment, meals, proctors and prizes. In essence, our church became the parent organization for York Chester Middle School. In future years, we also responded to the needs at Pleasant Ridge Elementary and Hunter Huss High School.

I remember saying to a room full of church leaders in our community, if every church in Gaston County would sponsor one school we could improve the quality of education for every child. It is hard to concentrate on academics when basic needs are not being met. Fortunately in 2013, I see more churches stepping up to adopt schools.

I am extremely proud that FUMC-Gastonia was on the cutting edge of this social issue. We have quietly continued to address this need as a response and responsibility to the love shown to us and through us in Jesus Christ. It is not enough to be seasonal "do gooders" it must be a way of life.

As we begin a new shool year my prayer is for the student(s) who's picture is not on anyone's dresser.