So, we missed a few weeks in there. Let me catch you up on what you missed:
2 weeks ago we talked about what it means to be rich and how God calls us to use our money for His purposes. We discussed how pursuing financial security before pursuing God can allow our lives to get out of whack pretty quickly. We did reinforce that financial security/money/having things is not BAD in and of it self, but when that becomes our primary focus (instead of Jesus) that's when things go sour.
Last week we had the privilege of serving at the Operation Christmas Child Processing Centre. Our students were the last people to touch the shoe boxes before they are in the hands of a child! It was a lot of fun and a great way to serve in Jesus name!
This week we had a question box night. They are always both fun and challenging. Teenagers ask some pretty deep questions. We discussed things like why are there so many religions?, what does it mean to really forgive?, Is God angry and violent? will I go to heaven even if I am bad?, what does it mean to be elect? So you know, nice light conversation topics. It was an awesome night (although with everyone talking, we can get side tracked) and there was a lot of discussion.
We ended the night with a challenge to the kids to really test and try Christianity. to attempt to poke holes, ask questions and really figure it out for themselves. Our hope as leaders is that they would come to see Jesus as the only way to True Life and not just believe it because we said it.
It is always such a privilege to hang out with these kids!
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Life Interrupted
Good Afternoon Parents!
This past Wednesday we discussed James 4:13-17 titled "boasting about tomorrow." We talked about how life isn't really guaranteed and that's why we need to submit our lives to God.
Our discussion was a little bit thrown off track with some questions about what it means to be saved and how Jesus can forgive us.
We also, during our prayer time had discovered that there were 5 deaths in the last two weeks that at least one of our students was connected with. Needles to say, we had to go a bit off script last night.
It was a great night of praying, talking, learning and discussing. So much so, that we didn't even have time for a game.
FYI - On November 30th we will be heading to Cambridge to help at the Operation Christmas Child Processing Centre (located on the corner of Pinebush Rd and Franklin Blvd). That will drastically alter the shape of our night. Students will need to be at the church for 6pm (Not the usual 7) and will be back shortly after 10 (instead of the usual 9). So please note that your kid(s) will need to be early and we are keeping them late. All students received permission forms, but if you haven't got one, please contact me (Andrew) by e-mail at youth@actoncrc.com.
Thanks! Until next week ...
- Andrew
This past Wednesday we discussed James 4:13-17 titled "boasting about tomorrow." We talked about how life isn't really guaranteed and that's why we need to submit our lives to God.
Our discussion was a little bit thrown off track with some questions about what it means to be saved and how Jesus can forgive us.
We also, during our prayer time had discovered that there were 5 deaths in the last two weeks that at least one of our students was connected with. Needles to say, we had to go a bit off script last night.
It was a great night of praying, talking, learning and discussing. So much so, that we didn't even have time for a game.
FYI - On November 30th we will be heading to Cambridge to help at the Operation Christmas Child Processing Centre (located on the corner of Pinebush Rd and Franklin Blvd). That will drastically alter the shape of our night. Students will need to be at the church for 6pm (Not the usual 7) and will be back shortly after 10 (instead of the usual 9). So please note that your kid(s) will need to be early and we are keeping them late. All students received permission forms, but if you haven't got one, please contact me (Andrew) by e-mail at youth@actoncrc.com.
Thanks! Until next week ...
- Andrew
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Catching up
So, it's been a few weeks. Let me catch you up on what you missed.
We had an awesome weekend with Brett Ullman - He spoke on self injury to students on the Friday night and to parents (on a variety of topics) on the Saturday morning. Both talks were amazing and informative. I suggest checking him out (www.brettullman.com) or ask me for some resources that he has created, I now have 3 DVDs and a couple books.
The week of the 26th was a D Group hang out night the girls all went to Ruth's house and played games and did girly things. One guys group did a rake and run (just what it sounds like) and the other guys group played some card games and hung out. This was a great time to get to know your group at the beginning of the year.
Last week (Nov 2nd) we discussed the importance of our words (James 3:1-12) and how our words set the direction of our lives. There was a lot of really good discussion in the D group times and some of the students are really taking the challenge seriously. So awesome to see transformation in the lives of these kids!!
This past Wednesday had our first iSpeak night. This is a time where we give the students a chunk of scripture, tell them to pray, read, reflect and then we all come together and discuss. It was a really awesome night and encouraging to see how many kids really responded and were challenged by the Scriptures.
COMING UP!
Operation Christmas Child Serve Night - on Wednesday November 30th we will be leaving the church at 6:15 (at the latest) and heading to Cambridge to help at the processing plant for OCC (the shoebox campaign). We did this last year and it was a TON of fun. It does mean kids will need to be early and will be late returning (likely after 10) so please be aware of that BEFORE you give your child permission to attend.
That's it for now! Thanks for all you do parents!!
- Andrew
We had an awesome weekend with Brett Ullman - He spoke on self injury to students on the Friday night and to parents (on a variety of topics) on the Saturday morning. Both talks were amazing and informative. I suggest checking him out (www.brettullman.com) or ask me for some resources that he has created, I now have 3 DVDs and a couple books.
The week of the 26th was a D Group hang out night the girls all went to Ruth's house and played games and did girly things. One guys group did a rake and run (just what it sounds like) and the other guys group played some card games and hung out. This was a great time to get to know your group at the beginning of the year.
Last week (Nov 2nd) we discussed the importance of our words (James 3:1-12) and how our words set the direction of our lives. There was a lot of really good discussion in the D group times and some of the students are really taking the challenge seriously. So awesome to see transformation in the lives of these kids!!
This past Wednesday had our first iSpeak night. This is a time where we give the students a chunk of scripture, tell them to pray, read, reflect and then we all come together and discuss. It was a really awesome night and encouraging to see how many kids really responded and were challenged by the Scriptures.
COMING UP!
Operation Christmas Child Serve Night - on Wednesday November 30th we will be leaving the church at 6:15 (at the latest) and heading to Cambridge to help at the processing plant for OCC (the shoebox campaign). We did this last year and it was a TON of fun. It does mean kids will need to be early and will be late returning (likely after 10) so please be aware of that BEFORE you give your child permission to attend.
That's it for now! Thanks for all you do parents!!
- Andrew
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Faith into Action
Hi Parents,
just to let you know we had a really good night last night. We discussed the verses in James (2:14-26) that challenge us to unite our faith and actions. The kids seemed to really engage with the discussion and then also during the journal time, most of the kids were scribbling away and pressing in. SO AWESOME TO SEE! It really blessed my heart as I stood back and prayed for them.
Also, just a reminder that the Brett Ullman events are coming up this weekend both for Students (Friday 7-9 pm) and Parents (Saturday 9-11 am). If you have any questions send me an e-mail!
- Andrew
just to let you know we had a really good night last night. We discussed the verses in James (2:14-26) that challenge us to unite our faith and actions. The kids seemed to really engage with the discussion and then also during the journal time, most of the kids were scribbling away and pressing in. SO AWESOME TO SEE! It really blessed my heart as I stood back and prayed for them.
Also, just a reminder that the Brett Ullman events are coming up this weekend both for Students (Friday 7-9 pm) and Parents (Saturday 9-11 am). If you have any questions send me an e-mail!
- Andrew
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Hitting Home
Hello Parents,
This past week in Youth Group we discussed the issue of equality & favoritism. Working out of James 2 we laid the foundation that is we truly understand what Jesus has done for us, the it would be impossible for us to show favoritism to, or look down on anyone.
This idea seemed to really connect with kids. A good amount of response during the main talk and then as we broke up into D Groups, the conversations continued.
Just a few quick notes for you parents out there:
- We will be having a D Group "hang out" night, where kids will be doing seperate activities with their D groups in 2 weeks (October 26th) - stay tuned to specific details on what your kids will be doing.
- The Brett Ullman event will be here in a little over a week, so please consider attending and also be willing to enter into some serious conversations if your child attends.
- Continue to encourage your teen(s) to grab a devotional and dig into God's Word between Wednesdays.
Thanks for all your support!
- Andrew
This past week in Youth Group we discussed the issue of equality & favoritism. Working out of James 2 we laid the foundation that is we truly understand what Jesus has done for us, the it would be impossible for us to show favoritism to, or look down on anyone.
This idea seemed to really connect with kids. A good amount of response during the main talk and then as we broke up into D Groups, the conversations continued.
Just a few quick notes for you parents out there:
- We will be having a D Group "hang out" night, where kids will be doing seperate activities with their D groups in 2 weeks (October 26th) - stay tuned to specific details on what your kids will be doing.
- The Brett Ullman event will be here in a little over a week, so please consider attending and also be willing to enter into some serious conversations if your child attends.
- Continue to encourage your teen(s) to grab a devotional and dig into God's Word between Wednesdays.
Thanks for all your support!
- Andrew
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Save the Date(s)!!
Hello parents!
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend!
I know you have already been made aware of the fact that Brett Ullman is coming to speak at Bethel in a couple of weeks and I'm just writing this to encourage you to make it a priority for both you and your teens to go.
Brett is a very talented communicator who speaks across North America to teens, parents, youth workers, teachers, and others. Andrew and I have had the pleasure of hearing him speak at both a youth conference and a youth leaders conference and each time we have walked away challenged and with a greater depth of knowledge concerning issues teens deal with today. Brett speaks very powerfully and straightforwardly and packs a TON of information into his 1-2 hour sessions.
We are very excited that Brett will be coming to Bethel on Friday, October 21st and Saturday, October 22nd in order that we can have two sessions - one geared towards teens, and one for parents.
Friday night, Brett will be speaking to youth from 7-9pm. This presentation is entitled, "Your Story: The Wounded Embrace," and addresses depression and self-injury - issues that are absolutely rampant with today`s youth. This issue has already hit our youth room on a number of occassions and a poll done in youth at the beginning of the year showed that at least 90% of our students know someone who is self-injuring. This presentation will equip our teens with tools on how to help their friends who are struggling through some of these issues. The talk will hopefully open up discussion - with friends, youth leaders, and parents - and educate students who may be confused about why a friend self-injures.
Below is a clip giving a taste of what Brett will address in his presentation to the youth on Friday night.
Saturday, October 22 from 9 - 11 am, Brett will be addressing parents with a talk entitled "Media.Faith.Culture." This talk is geared specifically towards parents and addresses sensitive topics today's young people face - including cutting, suicide, substance abuse, sex and violence. Here are a few quotes from parents and youth workers who have seen this presentation: (*taken from http://www.brettullman.com/)
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving weekend!
I know you have already been made aware of the fact that Brett Ullman is coming to speak at Bethel in a couple of weeks and I'm just writing this to encourage you to make it a priority for both you and your teens to go.
Brett is a very talented communicator who speaks across North America to teens, parents, youth workers, teachers, and others. Andrew and I have had the pleasure of hearing him speak at both a youth conference and a youth leaders conference and each time we have walked away challenged and with a greater depth of knowledge concerning issues teens deal with today. Brett speaks very powerfully and straightforwardly and packs a TON of information into his 1-2 hour sessions.
We are very excited that Brett will be coming to Bethel on Friday, October 21st and Saturday, October 22nd in order that we can have two sessions - one geared towards teens, and one for parents.
Friday night, Brett will be speaking to youth from 7-9pm. This presentation is entitled, "Your Story: The Wounded Embrace," and addresses depression and self-injury - issues that are absolutely rampant with today`s youth. This issue has already hit our youth room on a number of occassions and a poll done in youth at the beginning of the year showed that at least 90% of our students know someone who is self-injuring. This presentation will equip our teens with tools on how to help their friends who are struggling through some of these issues. The talk will hopefully open up discussion - with friends, youth leaders, and parents - and educate students who may be confused about why a friend self-injures.
Below is a clip giving a taste of what Brett will address in his presentation to the youth on Friday night.
Saturday, October 22 from 9 - 11 am, Brett will be addressing parents with a talk entitled "Media.Faith.Culture." This talk is geared specifically towards parents and addresses sensitive topics today's young people face - including cutting, suicide, substance abuse, sex and violence. Here are a few quotes from parents and youth workers who have seen this presentation: (*taken from http://www.brettullman.com/)
This is a conversation that needs to take place. Too often as parents, we say we are understanding of what our kids are being exposed to. But a lot of what the media has to offer remains "out of sight" and "out of mind" because we may be too busy to truly know what is out there. Brett's parent talk encourages us as parents to "dig deeper", to truly understand the message and effects of media as it relates to our faith. We would encourage every parent to equip themselves with what Brett has to offer.
~Chris and Tayna Jobe
Beacon Bible Camp - Parents
Beacon Bible Camp - Parents
We recently had Brett Ullman give his media.faith.culture talk at our Sunday morning service and the talk was hard-hitting and difficult to hear at points, yet the response was overwhelmingly positive. People of all ages were both challenged and encouraged to be the disciples of Jesus that we are all called to be. Rarely have I heard such a clear call to be the people who God has created us to be, from both a cultural and Biblical perspective. For anyone who wants to be both challenged and encouraged in what it means to be a follower of Jesus as a parent, grandparent or young person, I recommend that you to find a place to hear Brett speak.
~ Pastor Jeff Vandermeer
Immanuel Christian reformed Church - Simcoe
Again, we urge you to make these sessions a priority for your family! Encourage your teens to go and to bring friends and please come out Saturday morning and learn from the parents session. We look forward to addressing these serious issues and seeing how God will work through the sessions with Brett.
Take care!
- Laura
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Pure Religion
Hi Parents,
Last night was a chatty night, but it was a pretty good night all together. We discussed what it means to be "religious" and how that word has been put in such a bad light. The Scriputres (specifically James 1:26-27) talk about what religion SHOULD be. We discussed what it means to love, care for and pour ourselves into things around us. We broke down into groups and came up with ideas of things to serve as a youth group this year.
The two main ideas we came up with was to connect with the high school in meaningful ways and serve, and secondly to pour into sick kids hospital. Moving forward, we will look to serve both of these places all year long as a youth group.
It should be a wonderful adventure to serve with the group!
- Andrew
Last night was a chatty night, but it was a pretty good night all together. We discussed what it means to be "religious" and how that word has been put in such a bad light. The Scriputres (specifically James 1:26-27) talk about what religion SHOULD be. We discussed what it means to love, care for and pour ourselves into things around us. We broke down into groups and came up with ideas of things to serve as a youth group this year.
The two main ideas we came up with was to connect with the high school in meaningful ways and serve, and secondly to pour into sick kids hospital. Moving forward, we will look to serve both of these places all year long as a youth group.
It should be a wonderful adventure to serve with the group!
- Andrew
Monday, October 3, 2011
Resources
Hey Parents,
I recently came across this video from Jonathan McKeehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rgk-QADmSCo&feature=related about building values into your kids throughout the day. It also got me connected with http://www.thesourceforparents.com/ - please check out the video and make use of the source for parents as a resource for you!
- Andrew
I recently came across this video from Jonathan McKeehttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rgk-QADmSCo&feature=related about building values into your kids throughout the day. It also got me connected with http://www.thesourceforparents.com/ - please check out the video and make use of the source for parents as a resource for you!
- Andrew
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Powerful Stories
Good Morning Parents,
This was our first "real" youth night of the year with a discussion time and regular routine.
This week we discussed the first few verses of James (1:1-12) and how these verses point us to clinging to God rather than our own wealth or security. We also had Kyle and Lindsay De Koning who have an amazing story of God's faithfulness to them through an amazing time of Kyle (now 25) being diagnosed a year ago with an inopperable brain tumour, being told he had a few months to live and now being a healthy, happy guy who is on fire for Jesus! Please ask your kids to share what they have learned from this story.
We also handed out some new devotionals so kids can stay on track with Scripture reading.
Please continue to pray for our kids, asking that they would come to know God this year in a deeper way.
- Andrew
This was our first "real" youth night of the year with a discussion time and regular routine.
This week we discussed the first few verses of James (1:1-12) and how these verses point us to clinging to God rather than our own wealth or security. We also had Kyle and Lindsay De Koning who have an amazing story of God's faithfulness to them through an amazing time of Kyle (now 25) being diagnosed a year ago with an inopperable brain tumour, being told he had a few months to live and now being a healthy, happy guy who is on fire for Jesus! Please ask your kids to share what they have learned from this story.
We also handed out some new devotionals so kids can stay on track with Scripture reading.
Please continue to pray for our kids, asking that they would come to know God this year in a deeper way.
- Andrew
Thursday, September 22, 2011
First Week Back
We did some basic introductions and also made our leaders sit in the "hot seat" where the kids have 2 minutes to ask any question they want to the poor unsuspecting youth leader. A few kids even volunteered!
We discussed to basic "ground rules" of youth group including our three goals for the year:
1. Encounter God
2. Love each other
3. Serve
The students were introduced to a devotional that will go along with our series on James that should take us right up to the Christmas Break.
We also took some time to journal, responding to the question "what would I like to see God do this year?" and ended the night off with a prayer wall, where we give anyone who wants to an opportunity to add some prayer requests to the list.
All in all, it was a great night and it was so much fun to see all the kids again, and have a bunch of new faces too!
We are looking forward to another amazing year where God will do incredible things!
- Andrew
Monday, September 12, 2011
Back at it!
Welcome to the 2011- 2012 Youth Group Season!
We are looking forward to a really great year. Now only a week and a half away from the first youth night of the year, I thought it was a good idea to update you parents on a few things coming up.
The first thing you need to know about is our new mentorship initiative. Our goal for this ministry is to have each one of the highschool aged students in our church to be in an intentional mentorship relationship. These groups will all look different, some are in groups of 3 or 4, others will be one on one, some will read books, others will grab coffee. The idea is to have committed Christian members of the church and community pouring into our young people. If you have a child in this age range and have not yet recieved any information, please contact me at the church or by email (youth@actoncrc.com). Also, if you are interested in becoming a mentor there will be training made available to you on Saturday Sept. 24th here at Bethel church at 9:30 am with Dave Overholt, Lead Pastor of Church on the Rock (Hamilton) feel free to come out and check it out.
The second thing that we have coming up is the Brett Ullman presentation. On friday October 21st Brett will be sharing his talk for students on self injury. If you are unaware of what self injury is, please inform yourself. This is a problem affecting 1 in 6 teenagers in North America. Brett will also be sharing a discussion for parents on the morning of Saturday October 22nd at 9 in the morning, on Media, Faith and Culture. He will be dealing with many of the prevailing issues concerning teens in this day and age. I strongly encourage all parents to take advantage of this amazing opportunity. If you would like any more information on Brett or his ministry check out his website www.brettullman.com
That's it for now, looking forward to getting back into the swing of things this fall!
- Andrew
We are looking forward to a really great year. Now only a week and a half away from the first youth night of the year, I thought it was a good idea to update you parents on a few things coming up.
The first thing you need to know about is our new mentorship initiative. Our goal for this ministry is to have each one of the highschool aged students in our church to be in an intentional mentorship relationship. These groups will all look different, some are in groups of 3 or 4, others will be one on one, some will read books, others will grab coffee. The idea is to have committed Christian members of the church and community pouring into our young people. If you have a child in this age range and have not yet recieved any information, please contact me at the church or by email (youth@actoncrc.com). Also, if you are interested in becoming a mentor there will be training made available to you on Saturday Sept. 24th here at Bethel church at 9:30 am with Dave Overholt, Lead Pastor of Church on the Rock (Hamilton) feel free to come out and check it out.
The second thing that we have coming up is the Brett Ullman presentation. On friday October 21st Brett will be sharing his talk for students on self injury. If you are unaware of what self injury is, please inform yourself. This is a problem affecting 1 in 6 teenagers in North America. Brett will also be sharing a discussion for parents on the morning of Saturday October 22nd at 9 in the morning, on Media, Faith and Culture. He will be dealing with many of the prevailing issues concerning teens in this day and age. I strongly encourage all parents to take advantage of this amazing opportunity. If you would like any more information on Brett or his ministry check out his website www.brettullman.com
That's it for now, looking forward to getting back into the swing of things this fall!
- Andrew
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Pitch & Praise
Tomorrow afternoon, we take off with 9 students and head to Pitch and Praise in Paris, ON for a weekend of fun and worship.
Please pray for us as leaders (Andrew & Laura) and for the teens coming with us. We covet your prayers for safety and for God to work.
Pray that God would use the speakers, the music, the time together to reach the kids' hearts and change their lives. There are a lot of awesome workshops and discussions that will take place and we know God can do some amazing things through all of it.
Thanks for partnering with us in prayer!
Have a wonderful long weekend :)
- A & L
Please pray for us as leaders (Andrew & Laura) and for the teens coming with us. We covet your prayers for safety and for God to work.
Pray that God would use the speakers, the music, the time together to reach the kids' hearts and change their lives. There are a lot of awesome workshops and discussions that will take place and we know God can do some amazing things through all of it.
Thanks for partnering with us in prayer!
Have a wonderful long weekend :)
- A & L
Thursday, April 21, 2011
Questions & Easter
Happy Maunday Thursday Everyone,
This past Wednesday we wrapped up our series on "Removing the Rocks" with a final night where were discussed a couple of the "rocks" kids wanted to talk about specifically. The two that were suggested were Dating Relationship and Evolution.
The talk on dating relationships was pretty broad conversation on misusing the good gifts that God gave us and how things that are meant to be good can become a distaction.
The discussion around the Evolution topic was a lot more engaged. Kids seem to really be struggling through this right now, so as parents I think you should start a conversation at home about it. I know you probably aren't an expert, but neither am I, but talking about the struggle at home is a great start!
We ended off the night talking about the ultimate Removal of Rocks; Jesus' Ressurection. We talked about how the only thing that is going to change us is to encounter Jesus and walk daily with Him. We ended the night throwing a bunch of Rocks in the resevoir (ask your kids about it!)
Good night all around!
- Andrew
This past Wednesday we wrapped up our series on "Removing the Rocks" with a final night where were discussed a couple of the "rocks" kids wanted to talk about specifically. The two that were suggested were Dating Relationship and Evolution.
The talk on dating relationships was pretty broad conversation on misusing the good gifts that God gave us and how things that are meant to be good can become a distaction.
The discussion around the Evolution topic was a lot more engaged. Kids seem to really be struggling through this right now, so as parents I think you should start a conversation at home about it. I know you probably aren't an expert, but neither am I, but talking about the struggle at home is a great start!
We ended off the night talking about the ultimate Removal of Rocks; Jesus' Ressurection. We talked about how the only thing that is going to change us is to encounter Jesus and walk daily with Him. We ended the night throwing a bunch of Rocks in the resevoir (ask your kids about it!)
Good night all around!
- Andrew
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Pitch and Praise
Hey parents,
Just letting you know we are closing in on the registration deadline for Pitch and Praise. This is a new venture for us as a youth group, but all indications are that it's going to be great! I have heard the worship team and seen a few of the presenters before and look forward to hearing from them all again. If you want to check out all the activities and presenters go to www.pitchandpraise.com and snoop around.
The cost for the event is only $99 if registration is in to me (Andrew) by Wednesday April 27th at the latest.
If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me at youth@actoncrc.com
- Andrew
Just letting you know we are closing in on the registration deadline for Pitch and Praise. This is a new venture for us as a youth group, but all indications are that it's going to be great! I have heard the worship team and seen a few of the presenters before and look forward to hearing from them all again. If you want to check out all the activities and presenters go to www.pitchandpraise.com and snoop around.
The cost for the event is only $99 if registration is in to me (Andrew) by Wednesday April 27th at the latest.
If you have any questions or concerns please do not hesitate to contact me at youth@actoncrc.com
- Andrew
Friday, April 15, 2011
Prayer
Read this article this morning and it broke my heart. When a brother or sister in Christ hurts, we hurt with them. This hit close to home for me. There is now a wife without a husband and son; there are two girls without a dad and brother; there is an entire youth group without their youth pastor; and there are many more hurting and grieving. Please keep them in your prayers and take time to give your kids and spouse an extra hug today. - Laura
Sin & Guilt
Hey Parents, probably one of the biggest thing that keeps people (not just teens but everyone) from God and church is their own guilt over sins and mistakes in their lives. So this week we tackled that together at youth. Looking at the story of the woman caught in the act of adultery (John 8) we see how Jesus responds to sin. He extends grace, through not condemning us, but making a way for us, and He expects us to change (Go and leave your life of sin). Guilt is so powerful, that's why grace and fogiveness are so amazing. We even have a hard time forgiving ourselves, so why would the perfect God of the universe do it? Because He is perfect :) This is another conversation that would be great to talk about in your homes, I encourage you to live and extend the grace of God to your kids and deal with Sin as Jesus did. Be gracious but expect change. p.s. On a side note, there will be no 30 hour famine this weekend due to lack of sign up.
Thursday, April 7, 2011
Outsiders& Not Eating
Hey Parents! We have been a little off schedule recently, with last week being a D Group hang out night and the week before being a snow day (who would have thought!?!) but now we are back into the swing of things. This week was officially week 3 of our "Removing the Rocks" Series where we look at some things that get in peoples way when they try to see who Jesus is. Last night we talked about "Outsiders." We looked at how so often, we as Christians add to the cross. We make Following Jesus about the cross AND ... where Jesus calls us to take up our cross and follow him. The challenge was put out to stop adding to the cross and invite people in, love them like crazy and work together to live in a community of Love and Hope where we are all working together to know Jesus more, and follow Him each day. I encourage you, TALK TO YOUR KIDS ABOUT THIS. after I spoke we threw it open for some questions and there is a real struggle on including people who are hard to forgive. Some really tough questions. Please be a part of the conversation. Also, letting you parents know that NEXT FRIDAY April 15th will be our 30 Hour Famine. It is an overnight event, but will include sleep this time :) If you know your child is interested make sure they get a donation sheet to participate. This is such an amazing fundraiser and this year world vision allows kids to allocate the funds they raise to the cause they choose! (Food & Nutrition, Education, Child Protection or Education)
Monday, March 21, 2011
Recovering
After a crazy fun, but aptly named, march break madness event on Friday night/Saturday morning. Life is trying to regain some semblance of normalcy.
It was an awesome way to spend the last couple days of March break together, and to hang out with some of our future youth kids as a bunch of Grade 8's joined us (and had way more energy than anyone else.)
Fun, games, pranks, laughing, a little sleeping for some. All in all, a good night.
On another note, I have been reading an amazing book; Grace-Based Parenting by Tim Kimmel. I am only about a third of the way through, but it has hit me between the eyes on a few occasions.
I have the unique position of being a young dad, and working with teenagers. I get to see what I am getting myself into, as well as see how incredible the influence of parenting really is; for good and for bad.
The truth is there is not a perfect parent out there, but we all want to love our kids in ways that make them better. This book has been so helpful to me already, and I am just a rookie dad. I suggest picking up a copy (mine is borrowed, but I think I will be buying one soon) and reading along.
Hope it blesses you!
- Andrew
It was an awesome way to spend the last couple days of March break together, and to hang out with some of our future youth kids as a bunch of Grade 8's joined us (and had way more energy than anyone else.)
Fun, games, pranks, laughing, a little sleeping for some. All in all, a good night.
On another note, I have been reading an amazing book; Grace-Based Parenting by Tim Kimmel. I am only about a third of the way through, but it has hit me between the eyes on a few occasions.
I have the unique position of being a young dad, and working with teenagers. I get to see what I am getting myself into, as well as see how incredible the influence of parenting really is; for good and for bad.
The truth is there is not a perfect parent out there, but we all want to love our kids in ways that make them better. This book has been so helpful to me already, and I am just a rookie dad. I suggest picking up a copy (mine is borrowed, but I think I will be buying one soon) and reading along.
Hope it blesses you!
- Andrew
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Pain & Suffering
With it being march break, we had a smaller crowd this week, but it was a good night. The relaxed atmosphere of a march break style youth night leads to some really cool hang outs and conversations.
We discussed the issue of suffering and how it can be an obstacle to people seeing God for who He is. There wasn't a lot of discussion per se, but I think some good thought processes got started. Talk with your teens about the issue of suffering. Don't shy away from the tough stuff, because that is where you really see growth. One of the things came up, was that the "impersonal" feel of watching something on the news. So if your family or others close to you are going through a season of suffering, ask and pray to see where God is at work, be honest with your kids and get them in on the discussion!!
We discussed the issue of suffering and how it can be an obstacle to people seeing God for who He is. There wasn't a lot of discussion per se, but I think some good thought processes got started. Talk with your teens about the issue of suffering. Don't shy away from the tough stuff, because that is where you really see growth. One of the things came up, was that the "impersonal" feel of watching something on the news. So if your family or others close to you are going through a season of suffering, ask and pray to see where God is at work, be honest with your kids and get them in on the discussion!!
Friday, March 11, 2011
Rock Removal
This week we began a Lent series called "Removing the Rocks: Seeing Jesus Clearly." Over the next 6 weeks we will address some of the major stumbling blocks that can impede our teens from seeing Jesus for who He really is. This week we began the discusion on distractions. Those things, whether good or bad, that take our attention and affections away from Christ.
It was a good start, honest conversations and I think it really got some gears turning.
If you want to check it out, our creativity team has made some videos and we will be unveiling them each week at youth. We will post them after on the youth facebook page.
we also played a game that tied in to the lesson, but I think there was too much screaming for anyone to make the connection ... It was more of a headache inducer than anything :)
Please keep conversations going at home! Ask your teen(s) what are the major stumbling blocks that keep them from following Jesus.
- Andrew
It was a good start, honest conversations and I think it really got some gears turning.
If you want to check it out, our creativity team has made some videos and we will be unveiling them each week at youth. We will post them after on the youth facebook page.
we also played a game that tied in to the lesson, but I think there was too much screaming for anyone to make the connection ... It was more of a headache inducer than anything :)
Please keep conversations going at home! Ask your teen(s) what are the major stumbling blocks that keep them from following Jesus.
- Andrew
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
Get blog posts via e-mail
Pastor Ray has informed me that you can get new blog posts delivered to your email!
This is easier than checking the blog every day, week, etc. Every time a new blog is posted, you will be sent an email with the blog in the email. You can read through it, and if you want to comment, go to the blog, otherwise there is no need.
Here's how to sign up for this:
This is easier than checking the blog every day, week, etc. Every time a new blog is posted, you will be sent an email with the blog in the email. You can read through it, and if you want to comment, go to the blog, otherwise there is no need.
Here's how to sign up for this:
- Scroll to the bottom of the blog page. Just below "Home" it says, "Subscribe to Posts (Atom)" Click on that.
- A new screen will pop up. On that, click "Subscribe to this feed."
- You can now choose where you want it sent (your Outlook, etc.)
- Now you should recieve all new posts in your inbox!
- If you want to comment, at the bottom it says "view article." Click on that and it takes you to the blog, where you can comment. (Please do comment - it's nice to know people are reading this!)
Hope this helps!
- Laura
Monday, March 7, 2011
Up Coming Events
So with a busy season on the horizon my lovely wife suggested we inform parents of all the events that are coming up in youth group.
March Break Madness All-Nighter
Date: Friday March 18th - Saturday March 19th
Location: Hershey Centre, Playdium & Bethel Church
Cost: $30
Information: This event is aptly named. We will meet at the church at 6 pm on Friday and head to the Hershey Centre for a Majors vs. Battalion game. Then we will truck on over Playdium for a couple hours of games and finally head back to Acton for an all night extravaganza of fun.
Your teen MUST register by Tuesday March 15th at noon
D Group Hang Out Night
Date: Wednesday March 30th
Location: Will Vary for each group
Cost: N/A
Information: Our groups will take off together and forego the regular routine of a youth night and bond together! Each group will be doing it's own thing, so be on the look out for permission forms that will explain what your teen is up to!
30 Hour Famine
Date: April 15th - 16th
Location: Bethel Church
Cost: N/A - But must raise pledges (see Andrew for a form)
Information: This is a fundraiser event for World Vision. The teens voluntarily fast (abstain from eating) for 30 hours to help them empathize with those suffering around the world. The event focuses on raising both funds and awareness. Many of the activities will help educate the teens participating in what is going on around the world and what they can do to help.
Pitch And Praise
Date May 20th -23rd (May Long Weekend)
Location: Braeside Camp in Paris, Ontario
Cost: $99 Before April 30th ($115 After)
Information: We are switching things up a little this year. We have never attended this event as a youth group, but I have heard from countless others in the Youth Ministry community that this event is a "can't miss." We are doing a trial run this year to see how the kids enjoy it, and I must say from what I see, it looks awesome. Great speakers and entertainment, small groups, dances, games, tournaments and camping together! I look forward to the bonding experience of breaking my back on rugged ground for the sake of our teens!
For more information check out www.pitchandpraise.com
That's all I have for now, but check back often!
Please feel free to email me (youth@actoncrc.com) if you have any questions or concerns.
- Andrew
March Break Madness All-Nighter
Date: Friday March 18th - Saturday March 19th
Location: Hershey Centre, Playdium & Bethel Church
Cost: $30
Information: This event is aptly named. We will meet at the church at 6 pm on Friday and head to the Hershey Centre for a Majors vs. Battalion game. Then we will truck on over Playdium for a couple hours of games and finally head back to Acton for an all night extravaganza of fun.
Your teen MUST register by Tuesday March 15th at noon
D Group Hang Out Night
Date: Wednesday March 30th
Location: Will Vary for each group
Cost: N/A
Information: Our groups will take off together and forego the regular routine of a youth night and bond together! Each group will be doing it's own thing, so be on the look out for permission forms that will explain what your teen is up to!
30 Hour Famine
Date: April 15th - 16th
Location: Bethel Church
Cost: N/A - But must raise pledges (see Andrew for a form)
Information: This is a fundraiser event for World Vision. The teens voluntarily fast (abstain from eating) for 30 hours to help them empathize with those suffering around the world. The event focuses on raising both funds and awareness. Many of the activities will help educate the teens participating in what is going on around the world and what they can do to help.
Pitch And Praise
Date May 20th -23rd (May Long Weekend)
Location: Braeside Camp in Paris, Ontario
Cost: $99 Before April 30th ($115 After)
Information: We are switching things up a little this year. We have never attended this event as a youth group, but I have heard from countless others in the Youth Ministry community that this event is a "can't miss." We are doing a trial run this year to see how the kids enjoy it, and I must say from what I see, it looks awesome. Great speakers and entertainment, small groups, dances, games, tournaments and camping together! I look forward to the bonding experience of breaking my back on rugged ground for the sake of our teens!
For more information check out www.pitchandpraise.com
That's all I have for now, but check back often!
Please feel free to email me (youth@actoncrc.com) if you have any questions or concerns.
- Andrew
Thursday, March 3, 2011
Questions, Questions
I think Question box nights are one of my favorite things to do with Youth Group. For those of you who are unfamiliar with Question Box nights, it's really as simple as it sounds. We put a shoebox in the middle of the room and give kids pen and paper. They put questions in, we pull them out and discuss. It is a great way to let kids ask intimidating questions with no fear of being judged, or condemned.
Last night, as per usual, we had a great discussion. Things like, do you really believe everything in the Bible?, What is with the "last judgement?," What's the big deal with swearing?, and how far do you have to go with obeying your parents?
Lots of really good discussion and some open ended discussions (not about honouring your parents... don't worry!!) but all in all an awesome night. We have a great group of kids who are hungry to know more about what it means to follow Jesus. It is a blessing to be a part of their journey!
- Andrew
Last night, as per usual, we had a great discussion. Things like, do you really believe everything in the Bible?, What is with the "last judgement?," What's the big deal with swearing?, and how far do you have to go with obeying your parents?
Lots of really good discussion and some open ended discussions (not about honouring your parents... don't worry!!) but all in all an awesome night. We have a great group of kids who are hungry to know more about what it means to follow Jesus. It is a blessing to be a part of their journey!
- Andrew
Friday, February 25, 2011
This Past Wednesday
This past Wednesday we talked about sharing our faith with the people around us. We started out with a charade/relay type game, and the point was made later on that, sometimes, we just need to speak. Instead of exhausting ourselves trying to charade to people what we believe, we should have a conversation!
The main point we talked about is that sharing your faith isn't about gimmicks, stategies, tactics or manipulating conversations, but about love. Loving the Christian community God has placed us in, and loving the people around us. How much more honest and impactful is loving someone unconditionally than treating them like a project!
Loving with no agenda is the real kicker here, that regardless of how people respond to us loving them and talking with them (because it's not loving to leave them guessing! you have to talk as well) you love! Not demanding change, or growth, or them to be a different person by tomorrow morning. But to love how Christ loves us. Always through our sins and faulterings.
The groups broke up into D Group (Discussion and Discipleship Groups) and conversation seemed to flow really naturally.
God has really been blessing our D Group times recently. You should grab a youth leader (Mike, Ruth or Laura) give them a hug, and tell them thanks!
- Andrew
Friday, February 18, 2011
Want to talk parenting?
While at a youth conference last year, Andrew and I had the pleasure of listening to Carey Nieuwhof speak. Carey is the lead pastor of Connexus Community Church in Toronto. He has written a book called, Parenting Beyond Your Capacity, which is about what he calls "orange strategy."
It is a very interesting strategy, which we found very beneficial as youth leaders, and which we would love for you to find out more about.
On March 2nd at 11am, Carey is hosting an online chat for any parents wanting to discuss hot you as a parent can invite others to invest in your children. For more information or to join the discussion, click here and scroll down to "Carey Nieuwhof."
- Laura
Orange is what you get when you combine two primary colors—red and yellow. If you paint only with red, you will get what only red can do. If you paint only with yellow, you will get what only yellow can do. But when you paint with red and yellow, you’ll get new possibilities, fresh solutions, vibrant outcomes.
We use the color orange to symbolize what it means to parent beyond your capacity. Orange parents understand that by tapping into a wider community, they have the potential to make a greater impact in the lives of their children.
It is a very interesting strategy, which we found very beneficial as youth leaders, and which we would love for you to find out more about.
On March 2nd at 11am, Carey is hosting an online chat for any parents wanting to discuss hot you as a parent can invite others to invest in your children. For more information or to join the discussion, click here and scroll down to "Carey Nieuwhof."
- Laura
Thursday, February 17, 2011
A look at this week and next in youth group
Let me keep you informed on what has happened and is happening with our youth.
Last night we hosted a group of about 10 ladies from the community and put on a Valentine's Day spaghetti dinner for them. The kids worked hard, made it look pretty and the food tasted great. It was awesome to watch the kids mingle (this pushed some kids out of their comfort zone) and learn from and minister to the ladies.
In the coming weeks we will be handling some tough issues.
Next Wednesday, we will be talking about sharing our faith with our friends. Preparing for this has been both good and frustrating. Good because I feel a renewed sense of calling and Love for God and the people He has placed around me. Frustrating because I see how often we miss the mark. As Christ followers we often profess one thing and live another. I am the first to admit I am a work in progress, so the "Christians are hypocrites" argument doesn't usually hold much water in my mind. However, in the issue of sharing faith, I see this way too much. We teach that all people are created in God's image and hold a value so great, we can't even wrap our minds around it. Then we go out and treat people like projects, we reject them because they haven't "got it right yet," or, perhaps the most tragic, we love conditionally. I pray that over the next week God would continue to work this in my heart more and more, and that the words He is preparing for me connect with the hearts and lives of the people who will hear it.
Thanks for joining us on this incredible Journey.
Parents, you are a vital part of this journey. Thanks for allowing us to be a part of it.
- Andrew
Last night we hosted a group of about 10 ladies from the community and put on a Valentine's Day spaghetti dinner for them. The kids worked hard, made it look pretty and the food tasted great. It was awesome to watch the kids mingle (this pushed some kids out of their comfort zone) and learn from and minister to the ladies.
In the coming weeks we will be handling some tough issues.
Next Wednesday, we will be talking about sharing our faith with our friends. Preparing for this has been both good and frustrating. Good because I feel a renewed sense of calling and Love for God and the people He has placed around me. Frustrating because I see how often we miss the mark. As Christ followers we often profess one thing and live another. I am the first to admit I am a work in progress, so the "Christians are hypocrites" argument doesn't usually hold much water in my mind. However, in the issue of sharing faith, I see this way too much. We teach that all people are created in God's image and hold a value so great, we can't even wrap our minds around it. Then we go out and treat people like projects, we reject them because they haven't "got it right yet," or, perhaps the most tragic, we love conditionally. I pray that over the next week God would continue to work this in my heart more and more, and that the words He is preparing for me connect with the hearts and lives of the people who will hear it.
Thanks for joining us on this incredible Journey.
Parents, you are a vital part of this journey. Thanks for allowing us to be a part of it.
- Andrew
A Beginning
After attending a conference in December, Laura and I talked about starting a blog for our Youth Group. We wanted a way to keep people connected, to share ideas and resources, to question, and to let people (youth and parents, alike) know what happens in the trenches on Wednesday night.
So, as we begin the whole blog adventure, please join us - comment, ask questions, and let us know what you would like to learn more about through this blog.
- Andrew
So, as we begin the whole blog adventure, please join us - comment, ask questions, and let us know what you would like to learn more about through this blog.
- Andrew
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