Family & Youth Ministry Update

Dear Congregation of the Good Shepherd:

As our 2013 school year comes to a close, I am writing to thank you all for your steadfast support of the youth ministry program. There is no way for seeds to sprout unless the ground is fertile, and I thank you for being the soil that nurtures and cares for our children and young adults.

I feel the spirit of this congregation moving and shifting each Sunday, and I am certain that we are on a track of immense growth. I see this in the way we share the peace, crowding the aisles and making sure to shake the hand of each person present. Also in the way we joyfully accept the music the children offer, and in the openness you have in welcoming them into positions of leadership. These are the opportunities that will build them up to be leaders out in the world. The chance to be supported in exploring music and the arts, asking critical questions and assuming leadership roles is something they may not have at school or outside the church.

Let us continue to give them our loving support throughout the summer and into the fall. The Sunday School and GIFT programs are going on break for the summer months, though we will have a couple of summer events including a hike, a picnic, and a bike ride. Everyone is encouraged and welcome to join us. Please check the weekly e-newsletter for upcoming dates.

As each of us here is critical to the mission of the Good Shepherd, thank you for what you do, and for the spirit that you bring into this church.  I especially thank Joyce and John Petrusky, Wendy Richards, Lori Jiro-Falls, Olga Zaky, Deborah and John Powers and Joy West for their tireless and consistent support with this ministry.

~Dana Turner

Children, Youth, and Family Ministry Coordinator

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