School is out and the youth are relishing the freedom that summer brings. Every Sunday and Wednesday night has been filled with shouts of joy as kids rally around each other at the ping pong  table or in the gym for Gym Rats.  Yet, there are also bitter cries of disappointment as the beloved championship spot is claimed and the winning basket is shot in the gym. 

 

Through the ups and downs of competition, the goal for our students is connection with each other, with adults, and ultimately, with God.  The connections we build with each other point us back to the connection we have with our Heavenly Father.

 

Walk into the refinery on a Sunday morning and you will encounter the sweetest song of praise being proclaimed unto God.  Wednesday nights we are looking at the “whys” behind the songs that unite us as Christians.  As a student ministry, we’re taking a step back and learning what it is that we proclaim, why we proclaim it, and taking a moment to contemplate and acknowledge the greatness of the God who loves us and desires a relationship with us.

 

Being an intern again this summer has given me a unique opportunity to see these connections lived out through our students.  I’ve seen students who were afraid of talking last summer, initiate conversations with strangers and walk away with new friends.  I’m excited to see what the rest of the summer holds and ask that you join us in prayer on this journey!