Graduation

One of the great blessings of working in youth ministry is that you get to watch students grow over a period of time. When students enter the youth ministry as 6th graders they are often shy, nervous and tentative. Over the years they blossom into beautiful young men and women who graduate after their senior year of High school. Many grow to know who they are, what they believe and what they want to do with their lives. It is a great blessing and honor to be a part of their lives as they grow and then celebrate many of their accomplishments. For Steven and I, this has been an extra special year as the students who were in 6th grade at Central when we arrived in 2003 are now high school graduates and about to go to college in the fall. We could not be more proud or thankful for our time with them and have so many fond memories with them. Most youth leaders stay about 18 months. Steven and I have been at Central for 6 1/2 years and believe that youth ministry is a calling. We plan to stay working with students as long as possible. Here are a few photos from our time at one graduation ceremony last night.
Preston and Daddy being silly.
Katrina and Leah. Leah will be attending Wheaton College in the fall.

This is Grace giving her speach as Valedictorian of her class. I know I am not her parent, but I am so proud of her accomplishments and feel deeply honored to be part of her life.

Steven and Richard. They have spent a lot of time together over the years.

Katrina and Lucy. Lucy is my future Mizzou buddy!

Katrina with her Discipleship group. She has met with these students for 6 years and loves each one of them deeply! From Left to Right: Grace, Olivia, Mallory, Katrina, Marta, Leah and Lucy.