FBC Charlotte Student Ministry

And just like that...

2011-07-14T20:38:00.000-07:00

And just like that it's over. The last day on site was completed and with no major injuries and a lot of tired campers. Sure there was some paint in conspicuous places and they wore dirty clothes and had sweaty bodies but there was a real sense of accomplishment. We did missions this week!

Without spoiling the surprise, I'll let them share on Sunday night July 24.

I am amazed that 47 people can come from 47 perspectives and places in their spiritual lives and watch God meet everyone where they are. There is no human way to try to pull that off. It is definitely a God thing. I asked everyone to share their week's perspective on a card which I hope to get in your hands by Sunday. I don't read them until I get home but there was certainly some thought put into them. We have laughed a lot and cried some together and I am grateful to be heading home.

Tonight was mega relay. A night of goofy relay events with 500 participants. It's loud and competitive and good, clean fun. It does a youth pastor good to watch hundreds of kids have such a great time. Gotta love Nate Francis' headband and Tanner Myers' cheesecutter cap (that's a flat cap to the rest of you). Very natty.

Planking is this year's favorite pasttime. I know, right? I had to be reminded about this arcane art that is exeriencing a resurgence. I am sure there will be pictures. Disclaimer-no student, animal or public property was hurt during the taking of the photos.

For you who wonder about the next generation, how about these comments: "I wish the preaching was longer," and "I like it when they do an altar call."

In the boy meets girl department: Austin has discovered girls! Now back away from the facebook post Mrs. Carpenter. It 's more like girls have discovered Austin. You might ask him about it but he's keeping pretty tight-lipped :) I am thankful he was carrying his inhaler.

In the when in Rome department. No RC Cola but you just have to have a moon pie when you're in KY.

Try as we might (and I went to four nursing homes in Corbin, KY with Adam) we did not find one person who had ever seen Colonel Sanders in person. I did meet one lady (the green snake lady) that had no desire to see him. Probably a chick-fil-a fan.

We're coming home-see you soon.

Day Three-Second day on site

2011-07-13T20:35:00.001-07:00

The heat returned when the clouds burned off but we are getting some things done and projects are being completed. Our emphasis this week is for all of us to see how our mission assignments connect to our own faith journey. It is very easy to see these things as projects and to do lists and it makes it hard when you are not having face-to-face interactions with people. Dan was able to share that he has learned that tackling the cleaning of a food and clothing center enables the center workers . It gives them the time to minister and not have to worry about the other things. I think we are starting to get it.

Tonight's special recognition goes to our adult chaperones. Mission trips would not happen without them and they outdone themselves. They have been positive and engaging and intentional. They are a gifted group and I am grateful for everything they do. If you see them Sunday, pat them on the back and tell them thanks. We also held a talent show and the FBC youth praise band got to perform. It was a high energy performance and a lot of fun to watch. Congratulations to the band.

But, it is not lost on anyone that tomorrow is our last day on site. The challenge is to go out and make it the best day yet. Please pray that it is.

I just want you to know how well our kids handle themselves at these events. I am really proud of them in every way.

So while Dan and Rob are off playing euchre with the boys and Dave and Al are safely tucked in their beds and Lynda and Shanna and Missy and Patty are having another late night conversation with the girls, I believe I will probably read about four lines in my book before I fall asleep.

Day Two-First Day on Site

2011-07-12T19:45:00.000-07:00

Kids got to spend the day at their ministry sites today but first we had to endure a significant lightning storm before we could head out but it only set us back a few minutes. Just to give you some ideas of the variety of things kids are doing: Karissa is painting the home and clearing the yard of a lady in the hospital. Shania is building sandstone steps at a local camp. Note: Shania now has pick ax skills. Adam is playing guitar at nursing homes. Chad and Alana cleaned and sorted in a local thrift store/ shelter. Ethan is mowing yards tomorrow. Rob painted a cafeteria at juvenile facility. Nathan is doing vbs in housing complexes. Kids are all over and you have my permission to ask them about it.

Our goal as adult leaders is to engage every student, every day. We are debriefing kids at dinner and in our group time and letting them process the day's activities and the day's lessons from scripture. Today's theme was connecting to the lost.

Tonight we (our church group) honored our "seniors". We are blessed to have 8 kids who have graduated yet took the time in this crazy, busy transition period before college to come serve with us. I think that's pretty special.

We also got a treat from Bev. She put together snack packs for all of us in chinese food take out containers. Each box contained a puzzle piece that our seniors put together. Connected together we formed a recognizable picture. Scattered individuals are not nearly as effective as a unified group hence the importance of being connected. Tomorrow we honor another special group. Stay tuned for details.

On the lighter side of camp, tonight we had nightlife with minute to win it games. Xavier Taylor found the winning skills to move a cookie from his forehead to his mouth using only his face-Fear the Beard! Maddie McConnell took first place by stacking three apples in the shortest time. Not exactly marketable skills but...

Things I should verify on wikipedia: I was told by a nursing home resident today that if you throw a green snake into fire his feet will pop out. How does this come up you ask? I really can't remember, I was too busy trying to stay engaged in the conversation. But honestly a lot went by while I kept thinking about tiny little snake feet. There is a story about a Peruvian death worm but that requires further wikipedia research.

Not much changes: I hitched a ride with Al to grab lunches this morning. After a few unsuccesful attempts to find his way, Al told me that he and Dave made a run last night to find the lunch place to avoid...wait for it..."just what was happening right now".

And in the let's make convesation but I really want to know department: We (Adam and I) spent some time in two nursing homes today in Corbin, KY. I overheard Adam ask one lady if she had ever seen Colonel Sanders having grown up here. So far I have not met any Corbinites that have actually seen him. Yeah, it's true, I wanted to know too.

Tomorrow (Wednesday) is day two on site. Please pray that the kids will see that doing things in Jesus' name is significant regardless of whether we can "connect" all the dots or not. Let us not be weary in well doing.

Day One Is Nearly Done

2011-07-11T20:22:00.000-07:00

I think we are finally settled in and the excitement is running high. We all found the dining hall and the information overload began. We have things to do, places to be and people to see and there is a lot to process. We try really hard to make sure new kids feel comfortable about their schedule and their surroundings.

Tonight we met our camp pastor who introduced our theme of "connect". There has got to be something God wants me to get since everywhere I go, that's the theme. We were divided into track groups tonight. That's the type of ministry we will do. None of our kids are alone in a group and we have lots of different places to go. More on that in a minute. Adam Droscha and I are creative. Or so they think. We will be visiting six places to share and sing. We will be in Williamsburg, Corbin and Jellico, TN. I think we have people in 18 different tracks and tonight we shared stories of what was to come. Yardwork, shelters, nursing homes, apartment complexes are all on the list. There will be plenty of stories after tomorrow.

Tonight was also the night to share prayer partner cards with everyone. Thank you to all the prayer partners for your commitment. All that God does here is because people pray.

There is definite excitement about the ministry opportunities. Tomorrow will be a great time of church group devotions.

It's been a good day. Of course any day on a mission trip without the introduction a law enforcement official is a good day.

Notes from all over:

I (Ryan) have a girl in my track that shares that she is REAAAAALY sensitive to getting poison ivy. I guess holding hands with her in the prayer circle would be a bad idea. Makes you scratch your head and think doesn't it? At least I do.

Lynda reports that Austin is the mature one in her group. Compliment to Austin or criticism of her group-you decide.

I take Bev to Shipshewana for our 30th anniversary. She buys a giant pixie stick for Austin. Where did the romance go?

Rob noted that the steep embankments on campus would make perfect sliding venues should we receive a gully-washer like last year.

Thanks to Justin for reminding me that I need sunscreen for mi cabeza.

I'll be happy to pass on your comments to the group. Until tomorrow.

Welcome to the surface of the sun

2011-07-11T12:47:00.000-07:00

"Sweltering heat hits central U.S."

No kidding! I cannot remember this kind of heat. It's only a 106 heat index today. On the bright side, kids made it to church for our early take-off and we made it out the door by 3:45 am. With two potty stops and lunch we were ready to tackle the Cumberlands. We did have a small bout with a carsick student. If you call three walmart bags full a small bout. All was better after ginger ale and crackers. Gotta keep moving.

We arrived shortly after one and registration is always a challenge with lots to keep track of. Keys, pictures, room asignments, name cards, maps, etc. With a little practice we will all get the routine down. The next scheduled event is dinner and then our opening celebration! The kids are excited for a great week of ministry. I think they're ready.

Now I lay me down to sleep, I pray the Lord my wonderful chaperones on their first trip to Walmart for water, their souls to keep...

Almost home

2010-07-16T20:58:00.000-07:00

Just like that it's over. Another mission trip comes to a close except for that twelve hours on the road part. I will share the kid's impressions of the trip with everyone in next week's bulletin. We also will share in person on the 25th at the Sunday night fellowship at the Halliwell's. It's a bittersweet thing when these things end. Some of us want to get home. Some of us want to stay where it's fun and exciting and safe and easy to live out your faith. All of us need to go home and do what God has told us to do.

We have finished closing celebration. I blame Maddie for bringing the beach ball. It's always a good time for me to watch kids having fun. Right now kids are out for the last few minutes collecting names for Facebook requests and exchanging cell phone numbers. They'll have to write them down of course because our kids don't have their phones to enter them remember?

We'll be leaving tomorrow at 10 and making it all the way home.

Things I learned today:

1. Rap music is less appreciated at a nursing home than cake and ice cream.

2. Alabama/ Auburn is a big deal here. I had a kid on my track that wore an Auburn hat. He met a man that introduced himself as: Jack Burgans-Roll Tide

3. Austin makes a great wing man.

Our camp pastor closed with the best thought for the week. It's easy to leave camp celebrating the friends we met or the music or the ministry. But we should leave celebrating the One we do all this for.

Keep praying. See you in church.

Things I learned today:

1. Rap music is less appreciated at a nursing home than cake and ice cream.

2. The Alabama/Auburn rivalry is a big deal here. I had a kid on my track that wore an Auburn hat to our site. He met a man today who introduced himslef as: Jack Burgans-Roll Tide

Mega Relay and the Rainstorm

2010-07-16T04:09:00.000-07:00

There's something funny that happens when we realize that we don't have much time left. Our attention gets more focused. It happens at camp on Thursday when you realize there's just one more day left. I decided to write in the morning because I just ran out of gas last night. I suppose missing some sleep the night before with Sara had a lot to do with it.

We have kids doing vacation Bible school for a country church. We had kids working at homeless shelters and food banks and in rec centers. We have kids mowing lawns, weeding and picking up trash. We have kids in housing projects playing with the neighborhood kids. We have kids playing bingo and checkers and doing puzzles in nursing homes. You can be proud of your kids. All the reports I have received tell me that our kids are participating and serving with enthusiasm. The truth is they are looking for that big, emotional experience, that big story that just may not come. I pray for a year that God will accomplish what He needs to (which He is going to do anyway) but also that I will see it so that I can point it out to them along the way.

As I shared earlier, this is the year God is teaching us the progression of life in Christ. We have a starting point. This is a journey. We are adding endurance to our faith one sermon at a time, one quiet time at a time, one act of service at a time and one mission trip at a time. This is the process of becoming like Christ. This is how it works.

This morning a student wants to have breakfast and I was told to put on my big boy pants because they have some questions. I'm not sure what that means but I will find out. Sounds eerily like Job 38:3. Another leader had a brief conversation with one of our kids about salvation. They (the student) are just not sure. They don't quite understand and are just not ready yet. I believe their words were "I am a little scared". I can appreciate their honesty.

In any case the day is before us.

Sara is doing better. She doesn't look 100% yet but is so much better than yesterday. Thanks to Missy who spent the day with her and took care of her. Leaders like Missy are indispensable.

Things I learned today:

1.Gravity still works-all the time. We experienced a very heavy rain shower yesterday afternoon. Samford is built on the side of a hill and I knew that the rain had to rush down from the top. After all God had been teaching me about gravity all week. Sure enough on the slope near the cafeteria the water was cascading down the stairway. Some of our boys were also sliding down the wet grass, getting muddy and having a great time. Enter the first responders. It seems campus security frowns upon such exuberant behavior. The boys were told to stop but not before they had had plenty of fun. Not to be outdone, Patty lost her footing and had her own slip and slide adventure. She's all right and assured me she takes harder falls at school. Footnote about the hilly terrain. Yesterday Dan said there were boys "throwing" Bryant down the hill. Bryant was participating voluntarily. When I asked why, he said: There was a hill, there was Bryant..

2. This old man can still roll home-Yes last night was mega relay, a gigantic, one after the other, usually messy relay race. We participate with our mission track groups. My group was desperate for some veteran leadership. OK they were just desperate, so I got to participate for the first time and I have the floor burns to prove it. The field was too wet from the rain so we were in the gym. Running, diving and crawling, I did the best I could. And I will have you know this included doing one push up. That's right ONE. Good thing I have been working out.

3. Austin makes a fine wheelbarrow. I didn't see it myself because I was PARTICIPATING but Austin was the wheelbarrow for his team in the classic wheelbarrow race. Let's just say the the "pusher" got moving faster than Austin could and well you can guess how that worked. Austin, taking one for the team, plowed on-literally.

4. One scraped up knee looks pretty much like the next. I made it to my bus yesterday to see our track leader swabbing the leg of a student who had fallen. Sure enough, it was our own Aly Hill. Undaunted she continued and participated vigorously for our team in mega relay eating chocolate pudding out of a diaper. It's a mega relay thing.

5. It still feels great when a student says thank you. I shared with our group last night that each trip is different and cautioned them about comparing how "good" a trip is. God works in each one differently because we all come to these things at a different place. She told me thanks because that was what she needed to hear. That's exactly what I need to hear.

The final footnote on the day. Yesterday was Sam Freiburger's birthday. I heard happy birthday sung three times to Sam. In the cafeteria on my track at lunch and in our church group devotions. Her mom sent a gift and requested that I get Sam a chance to call home. I told her I would and at this moment I am not sure if it happened. If she didn't...Dear Mrs' Freiburger: Sam was having so much fun that she forgot to call. Yeah, that's not going to fly. I'll just have to apologize in person.

Keep praying. One day left on site.

The Birmingham MFuge rolls on

2010-07-14T21:30:00.000-07:00

I had every intent on posting this blog last night. I don't always get what I want. Before I tell you why I didn't finish let me tell you about some other things.

This day means that a routine has settled in as far as where to go and what to do. This takes some pressure off the kids to concentrate on their ministries and to focus on God and His word.

Yesterday I heard a couple of stories of kids from their sites that I will share. (As always, I encourage you to ask them to tell YOU what they experienced). Ian Nichols, one our Wednesday night kids, got to share (I believe for the first time) in the joy of being around when someone comes to Christ. Tyler, a seven year old, gave his heart to Jesus yesterday! Janelle Young learned first hand the significance of that cup of cold water passage Jesus shared with His disciples. Janelle "got to" carry around a boy that did not have any shoes. Believe me, and you can imagine, the relief he felt from the playground and parking lot heat here in Birmingham. We are learning to open conversations and share the gospel.

Last night we wrote to thank our prayer partners. We recognize that they play an important role in what happens at camp. Thank you to them.

By the way we did get a free afternoon yesterday. I took the kids to DeSoto Caverns for a cave tour. It's incredible to me that God is so creative, even where people may never see. Who knows how many undiscovered places there are where God displays his handiwork.

The real fun began this morning at 1 am and the reason I was late with my blog. Shanna called me to inform me that Sara Line was not responding to her migraine medication and needed attention. I dug out the emergency forms, found the nearest hospital, called her dad for the go ahead and off we went on an adventure. She is recovering now thanks to the good folks at Brentwood Medical Center and I hope she is getting some much needed sleep. Leighla her sister was there too. Thanks to Leighla for being a wealth of information and a sweet big sister. Thanks to Shanna for driving us there and back. Thanks to Missy for hanging out with Sara here at camp today while she recovers. We have wonderful adult leaders who really do treat these kids like their own. I have got to got stop adding to my list of experiences with emergency personnel. Footnote: Back in bed by 3:15 am.

One last youth pastor perspective about what you may hear from your child if you have one here: this year is not as emotional as last year. That may be true considering three kids came to Christ last year and some of our older kids were deciding that living for Jesus was going to be an everyday thing for them in spite of the cost. Last year we were making life changing "starting point" decisions. This year we are finding out those things were just the beginning and living them out is hard-and much less emotional. Consider this illustration. Everybody cheers and emotions run high when people in nice clothes pull out a shiny shovel and turn over a little dirt at a groundbreaking for a new building. Then the real work begins and things don't always go as planned. The blueprint changes or there are unexpected obstacles. This year we are building.

Things I have learned today (yesterday):

1. That gravity still works-even underground. Lakota slipped because we had to negotiate a steep embankment at the entrance to the cave. She fell and of course went DOWN. A scrape, some blood, first aid and we're ready to continue.

2. That Chick Fil A needs a store in Charlotte. You know we ate dinner at giant mall called the Galleria with several dining options. Plenty of young men with money burning a hole in their pocket could not wait to spend it on chicken. I guess they could have had a dinner of black eyed peas, cabbage and turnip greens. I'm glad I'm not rooming with Rod.

3. That Missy is afraid of Dan "the bad cop" McClintock.

4. That The Canadian National Anthem can be lovely. There is a hymn society gathering on campus this week and the Canadian contingent serenaded us with a beautiful rendition at breakfast. You would have been very proud Richard.

Keep praying.

Invitation to readers

2010-07-14T04:00:00.000-07:00

If you have something you want me to pass on to one of our team, I can do that. Just post a comment and I'll do my best to pass it on.

Day Three Birmingham

2010-07-13T20:58:00.000-07:00

Today was our first day on site and it was exciting to hear the stories of the people and places that the kids had experienced. I try to get a quick update from everyone and then we spend some extended time during church group devotions. We have good kids that jump into their ministries. Things did not go as planned for me but I did get reminded that this is not about me. I started to develop a little "Jonah" attitude about my situation. Oddly enough we looked at Jonah in our morning devotions. You'd think I'd be able to apply what I learned BEFORE my day.

Conversations are starting as God speaks through His word and the preaching of it. Tonight we talked about leaving behind our "baggage" in order to love God as we should. I am especially encouraged to hear about the conversations between students and see them pray for each other as they look to their peers for encouragement in their faith journey.

Tomorrow we have some free time to spend in the city. I have chosen to take the kids to DeSoto Caverns for a cave tour. Yes, we're trying a cave tour. I'm sure it will be fine. Really.

Tonight the kids got to participate in the Fuge Country Fair. Honestly, who knows more about county fairs than our church? They played carnival type games like the sack race and horseshoes to win tickets for their ministry track.

Things I learned today:

1. Al is not the only one that is time zone challenged. Today I went to the cafeteria building at six to read and pray for the day. There were three kids lamenting that the cafeteria wasn't open yet. I smiled and explained that it wouldn't be open for an hour and that it was only six o'clock. Now that's disappointing.

2. Austin Carpenter can eat more pixie sticks than anyone I know. Bev came up with the idea to give everyone a treat bag of "fair food"-peanuts, cotton candy, popcorn, etc. and of course pixie sticks. I told them they could trade items. A very cool idea... the bags I mean not trading pixie sticks with Austin.

3. Calling a parent gets an immediate emotional response-intended or not. Leighla needed to call home to get some contacts. Leighla is heading straight to drum major camp from here. Imagine the adrenaline rush you get when my name pops up on the caller id from the mission trip.

4. Jake, Mike and Adam made the best country fair participants-at least from the costume standpoint. Come to think of it, I could guessed that would be the case.

Keep praying.

Day Two Birmingham AL

2010-07-12T21:49:00.000-07:00

We have arrived and I must say its positively balmy in Birmingham. It was pleasant this morning when we left but what a change when we stepped out for lunch. The temps run in the nineties and the humidity is the same. I'm glad most of my work is indoors.

We are settled in the dorms. The boys have been split up. Dave Colegrove and Al have the younger boys and the older boys are with me and Dan and Rob. The campus is beautiful. Kids have now received their assignments and have an idea of what they will be doing for the week. Tonight we spent some time sharing about what we would be doing and what we were hoping God would accomplish in our lives. It's amazing to think that God can use all their varied experiences and produce just they need.

Tomorrow we start our ministries. I am looking forward to the first reports from the sites. I also get to eat meals with the kids and those are good conversation times too.

Things I learned today:

1. Nashville is in the Central time zone. I received a call from Al at 5:55 this morning. Thinking he may be stuck in an elevator somewhere I answered. "Say Ryan this is Al. Do you know we are in the central time zone?" Al had heard there was fresh coffee at 6 this morning. Too bad for the desk clerk that Al showed up at 5.

2. A van carrying two 50+, coffee-drinking men can wait longer for a potty stop than a van of junior high girls. Score one for the old guys!

3. Gravity is still in effect. Austin Carpenter decided it would be a good idea if he could run down one of the steep embankments on campus. It wasn't. The bad news is that he did the expected faceplant. The good news is that the Russian judge gave him high marks for his slide. More good news: Dan has Austin in HIS group for the week.

There's so much to learn.

Keep praying for us.

First Night Out-Mission Trip 2010

2010-07-11T20:50:00.000-07:00

Yes, this year's mission trip is started and we've completed the first leg of our journey. We began the day with a great service at the church with Richard giving a great message. It was an impressive sight having everyone on stage for our commissioning.

John Markham's Sunday school class graciously provided lunch for our mission team and their families. Thank you to all who helped. And a special thanks to Dotti for her generosity.

We had a goal of dinner in Louisville and stopping for the night in Nashville. So far mapquest has been right on the dot for time estimates. Other than a missed turn for our dinner stop, we hit all the distance estimates. We're settled in for the night at the Super 8 and plan an 8:30 takeoff to arrive at camp around 1 pm

Things we've learned today: Kids still bring cell phones-One cell phone dicovered (more to be found I am sure); ipod touch's have texting capabilities but no phone (is that violating the spirit of the no "phone" policy?); 64 ounces of water will lead to early potty stops (but Austin is hydrated); "the best thing to do is buy new socks and underwear before the trip, that way you know you have enough", Rob Johnson (apparently, Jane doesn't pack for Rob); fuzzy slippers are essential to complete a supergirl ensemble (it's either a junior high thing or just a Madison thing),

Thanks for praying. I'll blog you later.

Blaze Conference

2010-03-20T15:40:00.000-07:00

Today has been exciting and challenging for us at our winter retreat. Students have been equipped to share the gospel using the g-o-s-p-e-l acronym. They should have it down so if you see one of the kids, ask them about it. Shortly before lunch they were asked to phone a friend that doesn't know Jesus and ask them a couple of questions that would lead to a discussion of the gospel. Several gave it an attempt, some got through and started a dialogue. Others got the proverbial question they couldn't answer but persisted and have an invitation to talk further. This afternoon we were challenged to let go of the things that we carry with us that we are ashamed about. It was a powerful object lesson on the fire that purifies from Isaiah 6. Many came to feel and understand God's complete forgiveness. It was very moving.

This afternoon we spent a time walking around a local middle school. We picked up trash. We prayed that God would raise up students in that school to commit to "the cause". The cause is this conference's term for the great commission. Finally we prayed for our own schools, that we would be the ones to commit to the cause at home.

We spent some time brainstorming on how to lead the cause in Charlotte High School (and Eaton Rapids for Lakota). I think we are starting to get it. I am looking forward to tonight's closing session.

It's been a cold, snowy blustery day in Chicago but it's been well worth the time and effort.

Thanks to Rob Johnson and Shanna Sommers for their supervision. It wouldn't happen without them. See you tomorrow night for youth group.

Opening Night at Blaze

2010-03-19T22:07:00.000-07:00

We have arrived at Blaze without incident. We have been challenged to share Jesus with our friends and co-workers. I am praying that our kids will be ready to follow up on the commitments they have made. Tomorrow will be a full day starting at 8am and going to 9 pm. We will be learning how to share our faith and get a chance to practice later in the day. Time for bed and a little rest.

2010-03-19T08:38:00.000-07:00

I am getting the last minute details together for our high school trip to Chicago. We (14 kids and three adults) conference. Blaze is organized by dare to share ministries and is all about energizing kids to share their faith in Jesus.

It should be a high energy weekend and we have been looking forward to it for a long time. Just got to make our way to Chicagoland and it will be all right. I'll keep you posted.

Last post from camp

2009-07-17T05:45:00.000-07:00

The library will close at noon today so I had to sneak away to tell you about last night and to ask you to pray for our final day of camp and our long trip home. As I shared with you, Thursday night can be a great night at camp and this year was no exception. Exhaustion meets emotions meets eternity for some. This week we have been challenged to move in our faith journey.

I would like to give you some quotes from conversations I have had the privilege of having. Some names are omitted because God is still moving in their lives.

"I want to be a Christian."

It's not every day a young person taps you on the back and tells you that. Last night Chad moved from his seat to find me. I had the opportunity to share from God's word how to become a Christian. In Bible words Chad moved from darkness into the light. It doesn't get any better than that!

"It's time"

Wednesday's message was about taking a stand. Last night my nephew Justin McConnell and I had a brief conversation. He told me that he just never told people that he was a Christian and that it was time. When we get home Justin and I will arrange with Robin a time for Justin to follow Jesus in baptism!

"I've always been a Christian"

Sometimes at camp there is a heavy emphasis on getting saved (the important life question) and an implied message is that you need to know exactly when you got saved. For some that can be difficult and for some it plants a seed of doubt in their mind if they can't recall that exact point in time. Miranda and I had a wonderful chance to examine her life as it was right now. She loves Jesus, loves to serve Him and wants to follow His leading. It's pretty evident to me and I hope now to her that those desires and actions are evidence of a relationship with Christ. Sometimes it just takes someone to listen and remind us of some things. It really helped Miranda to hear that Bible truth from Romans that His (Holy) Spirit bears witness with our spirit that we are His children regardless if we wrote down a date in our Bible flyleaf when we came to Christ.

"How do you know God is real?"

Doesn't everyone wonder? Doesn't everyone ask life's big questions? I was able to listen to a 100 questions (literally) at dinner last night. Excuse me while pontificate on the thinking of the post modern student. I'm a fact guy. A modern guy. Lay out all the arguments and facts and I will make a determination. Most young people today are experience people. Post modern people. Their experience validates the facts. You may think that's backwards. You probably think the facts validate the experience. It's not so simple anymore. I have to force myself to communicate much differently to make an impact. Let me tell you what I said and maybe you'll understand why this conversation of all those I have had has moved my thinking about ministry. I could have pulled out the anthropological argument for God's existence or the teleological or the cosmological or whatever other "ical" that I wanted to but it wouldn't necessarily help. I asked if these kids (girls in this case) had boyfriends. They all did. "Do they love you, I asked?" They all replied yes and I got to ask the question, "how do you know it's real?" Because he says so, he means it and he shows me. Good answers, I thought. To which I said, "then how come you can't give God the benefit of your doubt?" God tells you He loves you. God means what He says. And He shows you. The light bulb went on for these kids. See, their experience (with their boyfriends) validated or maybe illustrated what facts about God they already knew. The facts were still the most important piece of the puzzle but how they incorporate them into their faith is now different. Suffice it to say thay have much less doubt today about God's existence than they did yesterday.

"What is a relationship to God? Is that like hanging out?"

Language is always in flux and words that I think accurately describe things may not always work in the mind of a teenager. For this student "relationships" are friendships that improve and deepen by hanging out. We talked about the definition of hanging out. Which is kind of like "going together" but that's another subject. The idea of talking to God every day and reading the Bible every day is how we hang out with God. It makes sense to her because that's how her friendships are developed.

"I mean I believe in Jesus and everything, that's it's not just a made up story but I don't know a lot about a lot of things"

Welcome to the process. The early church characterized the faith journey like this. Seekers, hearers, kneelers and followers. This student is on her journey and she has passed the first mile marker. Jesus is alive. She gets that. I have encouraged her now to read what Jesus said about living life and serving and compassion and justice and holiness and sacrifice and what that may mean for her. Can she begin to follow? I thank God for kids like this who are honest and I have encouraged our kids to be a group where someone can belong before they believe. A place where others can see that we love Jesus, that we follow Jesus. Let's be a group where we let others experience those things and maybe they will be "moved" to follow Jesus too.

"There's this kid in my track..."

Taylor has a friend in her group that does not have a relationship with God and he's honest enough to admit that. Taylor has connected with him and today wants to talk with him.

Whether it's moving from darkness to light or from observation to obedience or from doubt to confidence or from confusion to clarity, kids are moving on this trip. God is moving in them. Last night we talked about saying good-bye well. To leave this place and the people we've met as Paul left his Ephesian friends. Paul and his friends had impacted each other positively and it showed in their good-bye. Pray that the last day here will be one of their best days ever and that our good-byes will be a positive, last act of service.

This is the last post from camp. I won't have access to a computer after this. I appreciate all your thoughts, prayers and donations to make this happen. And maybe, just a little bit, God has moved in you through this blog. See you Sunday.

Thank you Donna.

Where exhaustion and emotions collide

2009-07-16T13:24:00.001-07:00

Today we start with a quote of the day:
"A-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-a-r-r-r-r-r-g-g-g-g-g-h-h-h-h" -Unnamed youth pastor from some place or other. This quote was shared by Alex Falsetta, heard during a pick up basketball game. Alex got the rebound. Alex caught this gentleman's nose with his elbow. There was blood. Lots of blood and Alex reports that it might be broken (the nose, not Al's elbow). Let this be a lesson to all those young whippersnapper youth pastors out there.

I am back from site where we heard my quote of the day. It comes from Dusty from Natchez, Mississippi. We have been performing and visiting in nursing homes this week. Dusty has shared his testimony and played guitar. He caught Al napping in the back of the room today. Amy, our leader, encouraged the kids to spend some time with residents. Dusty caught up with Al (now awake) and said, "I thought you were one of the people we were supposed to talk to!"

Kids are busy and I get to hear bits and pieces of their stories throughout the day. Some of our kids have been working feverishly to get a converted grocery store completely painted for their first day of church this Sunday. Maegan, Jake, Lakota and others are tackling that job. Zack and Logan report that they have stopped more than a couple of fights between kids at their sites. I really think that its sinking in about service and I hope to get a chance to share with you why we do mission trips when we report on July 26. I hope ya'll can come.

Last night we talked about priorities in life and the camp pastor shared a great illustration about them. We had time to process a little in church group devotions and it was clear from my conversations with kids and the conversations I had with other adults that kids were evaluating things in their own life. Tonight we tackle the subject of moving forward without knowing all the answers, without knowing all the directions and not being able to anticipate all the outcomes. Keep praying for the kids.

We do have one young person that has had a set back physically. Hayley was feeling under the weather (meaning intense sun and heat) and stayed back at camp today to get some rest. Thank you to Debbie for staying with her today. Thanks to Dan for the everyday trips to Walmart to get water for the kids. Thanks to Diane for taking Hayley to the clinic for some help and making those same Walmart runs to get Benadryl lotion for Al's leg and other supplies. Thanks to Al, Dan, Kathy, Diane and Rob for keeping the vans fueled up for their use in ministry this week.

Thanks for reading our blog. We love to hear from you and I share your comments with the kids each night. They act embarrassed and the crowd gives out a gigantic a-w-w-w-w-w-w-w when I read them your "love" notes but I know they appreciate it. Note to Erin-"still proud of Alex?"

You're tired. You hear and study God's word 5 times a day. You go out and use your gifts. God really starts get listened to by this time in the week. I look forward to what tonight's worship will bring. Good conversations and experiences are happening every day. Tonight I have a dinner engagement with three young ladies. They have some questions for me...

See you soon.

2009-07-15T13:18:00.000-07:00

Day Two back from site

You never know when you'll hear the quote of the day. My track is visitng nursing homes this week where our kids sing and perform skits and share their testimonies. I met Thelma and was asking where she was from. We determined that she grew up in Stowe, Ohio. My next question should probably be the quote of the day but her's is better. I asked, "well, what are you doing here?" She replied without pausing to think, "listening to you!" I could go on about what I really meant but you know I just laughed because she was funny and I was less than articulate.

As Robin would now tell me, "here's your sign."

We had quite a presentation of Romans 7 last night. Our camp pastor was very direct about the nature of sin and its continued attempts to enslave us. Early on he asked if there were any young people that wanted to settle the salvation question that night. I got to spend some time with Latrell who had previously made a decision during the John Jacobs meetings. I only mention Latrell by name and situation because so many of us have wondered and had some doubts about our own relationship with God. It was my privilege to share some truths from Romans and lead him in prayer. Only God knows Latrell's real point of salvation but at least last night he and I both know what happened. It really doesn't matter when. What matters is that Latrell moved forward in his faith last night which happens to be our theme.

Speaking of moving. God is prompting some about missions and I have had the chance to talk with them at meal times about what God is leading them to do. I hooked them up with the camp mission's mobilizer and they have had a couple of productive conversations about this young person's next steps. Others are having serious "faith questions" and I am thrilled. These are the young people (not ours specifically) that are leaving churches in droves after high school. Many times it's because their faith is not their own but one "given" to them by their parents or their church and when those influences diminish... I welcome any chance to push kids to experience God for themselves. I do not worry that if kids seek God that He will not show Himself. God wants them to explore and question and challenge. I am certain He can handle it. I have been asked by some if they could ask me these troubling questions tonight at church group devotions. I told them of course, but don't be surprised if I answer you with a question of my own. After all I'm not interested in giving them my faith either. I want it to be their relationship with Christ that excites them and moves them. (Sounds kind of preachy, but I don't many chances to preach in these settings). Could be a fun ride. I'll let you know tomorrow.

Tonight we will be challenged to take a stand. Moving forward in faith means encountering obstacles and opposition. Pray that we'll determine that taking a stand is worth the risk.

I handed out some prayer partner cards and encouragement notes last night. Thank you so much for brightening their day and their hearts. We all like to know people are thinking about us.

I'm off to dinner. I have a date with a student who has something they would like to discuss.

Beats talking to Al.

Just kidding. Our leaders are the best and they keep great track of our kids and their needs. I couldn't do it without them.

2009-07-14T13:16:00.001-07:00

First Ministry Day Completed!

We're back from site and I am trying to complete this post before our group picture is taken. Kids are flung far and wide and I look forward to dinner and church group devotions to catch up with them.

My group, including Al, Laura and Kayla, went to a park in Greenville to play with a couple of kids in the neighborhood. Al and I and Megan played basketball with a couple of high school kids. I'll give Al credit. He plays a mean game of 21 and we had a great time. Our second stop was a nursing home. The kids performed some praise music, a couple kids gave testimonies, Laura, Kayla and her group did a modern version skit of the Good Samaritan and then we sang some hymns by request. I met Helen and Gwen and Lilly and Martha and Andrew and others. The residents joined in the singing and really enjoyed the visits from our group

There are quotes of the day that aren't so funny but remind us of what we do in youth ministry. I had a chat with one student that was not happy with their assignment. They are going to a church to work in a day care. Their quote was, "I travelled all this way to do what I do at home."
We have reminded our kids that they are not in a track by accident. Let's give God the benefit of the doubt that He knows where He needs you and knows where you need to be. Secondly, I am encouraged that kids are starting to see that "mission" can be done at home. After all, that's one of the goals of mission trips. I will be interested to hear how their first day went.

This morning I showered at camp. I go first and the water is ice cold. Al goes second-the water is ice cold. Rob goes third-the water is ice cold. Dan goes last and informs us the water was too hot. Seems the plumbing system takes 15 minutes to get hot water from here to there. I am toying with the idea of letting the water run tomorrow but I may just be too Dutch for that kind of waste.

I found out today that we don't have a free day on Thursday which will be disappointing for some. Sounds like an apology for church group devotion time.

Tonight the theme is having faith to let go. Letting go of whatever is hindering us from moving forward on our journey or whatever is hindering God from moving in our lives. Pray that the message of Hebrews 12:1 will be clear and that God will do some finger-pointing in our lives. I look forward to church group devotions for the day's reports and the chance to talk with kids about their faith journey.

Quote of the day part two

Let me say something about ministry tracks. Drivers and youth pastors don't get a choice in what area they serve. They go where they are needed. The group joke is that we (Rob, Al, Diane and I) did not want to do creative ministry. We're not big drama, singing, puppet show people. You already know where this is going. All four of us are being creative this week. I confessed that I laughed out loud when Rob told me last night that his next day's assignment would be to perform an interpretive dance (if you listen closely you can still hear Kim laughing). We adults arrived later than the kids to the track planning sessions after a leader's meeting this morning. Rob was pleased to inform me that his drama leader told him of his part in the dance. Which leads me to the quote of the day part two. "It's going to be o.k. I get to be a tree!"-Rob Johnson

Can't wait to hear how well he performed.

Until tomorrow.

The blog is back

2009-07-13T12:46:00.000-07:00

Monday 4:00 pm

I realize that I have visited South Carolina at least twenty times in the summer but that was to walk around Hilton Head Island which has an elevation change of six feet. Today I conquer the hills of Greenville. I may not have enough hats, shirts and deodorant for this climate. But I'm back in the blogging chair.

We got off at 6:24 on Sunday and cruised all the way past Ft Wayne before someone had to go. But we made up the time by rolling all the way to the Kentucky welcome center for lunch and on to Richmond, KY before we needed gas. That's a blessing when these fully loaded vans get 15 mpg. We stayed nearly an hour ahead of schedule when we stopped for dinner at Ryan's. There I had my first message from a parent at home. "I think my son forgot a towel". I trudged up to Walmart to find a bath towel display right inside the door. $3.50-on sale. It has no nap and feels like the County Journal but hey, it's a towel!

We bedded down in Fletcher, NC at the Days Inn. We had some time to swim and relax by the pool.

Quote of the day comes from the Dan van (Dan McClintock's). Kids were looking at all the license plates on passing cars in Tennessee (more like cars we passed) and Taylor Brooks was heard to say..."hey there's a car from Michigan, you don't see that everyday!" Somewhere Maureen and Gary are proud.

Monday dawned dark, dreary and rainy. Not good for a stop at Chimney Rock State Park for hiking and a picnic. Armed with absolutely no alternative, we went anyway. The clouds moved on and we started on a "moderate to strenuous" hike to Hickory Nut Falls. If by strenuous they mean, blood pounding in your ears, calves burning and wheezing like an old tea kettle then they got the description right. We made it and the falls were worth work. They are 404 feet tall and fall into a pool. Kids waded and splashed. Some slipped. One leader took a shower and you will probably see some pictures of kids on rock outcroppings where they probably should not have been. I remind you that no kids were harmed in the making of these photos. Picnic lunch and on to North Greenville University.

I have reached information overload and currently I am in the library. I have not seen the girls since they took off to their dorms and the three male chaperones are off to WalMart. Rob left his pillow in the hotel. Al didn't bring a pillow and Dan is taking care of our boys. You see when you take all their cell phones away no one knows what time it is. He is searching for a couple of cheap alarm clocks.

Tonight we will have our opening worship and our church group devotions. This is where we really get focused. Please pray that God is given the time and space to do and say what he needs to. I'm a little tired but excited to get things started. Thank you to everyone who prays for us and thinks about us.

Quote of the night: "Grrroblloemmennmoupert". Al apparently talks in his sleep. Something I just found out last night. It was mostly unintelligible except for the part about Jane making him clean the garage floor again.

Hope to blog with you soon.

Going Home

2008-07-18T04:59:00.000-07:00

We're getting there. Keys are collected. Rooms are clean and we're heading to quiet time as a group. Today we will ask the students for their impressions of camp. It's always encouraging to hear what has happened in their lives over the week.

We hope to hit the road by 10:30 am. I will start the calling tree when I know a close approximation of arrival time.

Pray for a safe trip.

Up to the minute...

Fight Night Ends Without Major Injuries-Officials say blood loss was only minor

Thank you for your prayers

Ryan

Ministry Sites day three

2008-07-17T13:01:00.001-07:00

Just like that the week speeds by. Today was the last day of ministry at our sites. Each group had a big day planned and the settings were perfect. The children's ministry was ready for a water war after their Bible story about the paralyzed man who was healed by Jesus. The four friends carried their friend to Jesus. I hope in today's reenactment we didn't fold up Jason (playing the paralyzed man) like a pretzel like we did last night. We emphasized sharing the gospel with the children by way of the colored bracelets we used at the fair. I am waiting for student reports on their experiences. It was a bright, sunny day and the temperature is 90 right now. Water games attracted even some of the older kids that were hanging around watching but not participating. Al had a nice talk with a high school senior who recently professed Christ at a Fellowship of Christian Athletes meeting. Initial reports were that everyone had a great time and everyone got soaked.

The adult ministry set up a carnival for the participants. We used some of our fall family festival games to play ring toss, bucket bonanza, bowling, tic-tac-toe, duck pond and a fish pond. Participants got to fish for prizes that Bev helped me find at the Dollar Tree back home. The participants really enjoyed that especially the ones who got candy! We finished with a snow cone and popcorn treat (not mixed together). I am proud of the way our kids interacted with them and I know both the adults and our students had a great time.

We will be packing up before breakfast and will leave after the closing celebration but tonight will be a difficult night. Everything comes together emotionally and spiritually at evening worship. I have been praying that God would show our students who they are and get a glimpse of all that they can be in Christ. It should be a great evening. As I have said before, I wish I could bottle the enthusiasm and energy of this evening and pour it out when we reach the long days of winter.

A couple things. You know how I feel about our students but you need to know how terrific our adult chaperones are. Diane Pfost, Dan McClintock, Al Doorlag, Kathy Bristol and Cyndi Gauthier do a tremendous job of balancing the structure and the ministry and the fun. They really do get to do most of the pastoring of our students on trips like these. I can't tell you how much I appreciate knowing that they are 100% involved 100% of the time. They are a big part of the success of these trips. Thank you to all of them. And thank you for your encouragement notes. We do mail call each evening and we all appreciate the words from home.

Hope to see you all soon.

This just in...

It's A Girl!-Charlotte Boy Reaches Out to Meet New People. Adam observed (by everyone standing around him) having a conversation with Galey.

Cyndi Makes Providential Choice-Old time gas station has pumps unable to dispense gas over $4.00 per gallon.

You Can't Get There From Here-Local Wal-Mart sighted but never reached. You would think that would be impossible you can see it from the school but Cyndi and Ryan did it. But not for lack of trying. Fact is, we never made it there.

Cowabunga!-Mattress surfing named official mission camp sport. It's kind of like a train wreck. You don't want to look but you just have to. You get to guess who participates.

Me Al, You Jane-we're sure Al wears the pants in the family and just as sure that Jane has to match them with the shirts he wears. On a side note, Al only left his meal card behind(so he could get in the cafeteria) once that we know of.

Thanks for all of your prayers.

Ryan

Ministry Sites Day 2

2008-07-16T13:06:00.000-07:00

Not everything goes smoothly with 1200 kids on a campus. We come from 60-70 churches and are using lots of Liberty's facilities. Last night we got locked out of our meeting room so...we met in the hallway. It wasn't ideal but ministry has some speedbumps. Kids were ready with the next day's preparations and ran through their Bible stories. The children's ministry was doing the prodigal son and Kaitlyn does a very good angry older brother. oddly enough Karissa was chosen as the pig farmer. You'd have to know Karissa to see why that's the perfect role for her. The adult ministry ran through our puppet show without puppets. We're doing David and Goliath. David I am told is a ruddy and handsome sweatsock.

Kids are getting tired. It sure brings new meaning to our first meeting of the day called "quiet" time.

The sky was cloudless all day and we might hit 89 tomorrow. No rain is a good thing for those working at the Housing Complex doing Backyard Bible Club. They don't have any shelter if there is any inclement weather. They would just have to pack up. It is hot and they need to take in enough water and load up the van for bathroom breaks down the street. But they are doing well. Today they had a few more kids and Al was happy with the way our students have prepared and lead the ministry. We do have good kids and they are entirely capable of planning and doing ministry. I haven't heard if the water day will happen on Thursday. A garden hose and water balloons sound pretty good when it's 90 outside.

Our adult ministry got a treat today. Some of the participants got to hear an organ concert in the church where our ministry is housed. The organist was incredible and even though I am a little slow I now understand what it means to "pull out all the stops". Today was a music day with the participants. We were a little rusty on a couple of songs but the students kept going and did very well. Most of the crowd sang along to You are My Sunshine. The crowd favorite was the rendition of Father Abraham especially when we got to "tongues out". Tomorrow we are having a carnival and we brought with us some fall festival games.

All the news that's fit to print:

Al Doorlag Tours Downtown Lynchburg-No fire departments are needed

Bryan Perkins Terrorizes Fellow Campers-Film at website (soon)

Local Youth Pastor Accused of Cheating at Bible Trivia-Adult day care participant, Shirley, doesn't like to lose.

Local Youth Pastor Mocked For Bushy Eyebrows-Adult day care participant, Shirley, offers a free waxing. Authorities are investigating to see if the two incidents may be related.

You Say Toe-may-toe, I say Toe-mah-toe- Maybe it Ws Just Her Accent Alana Retzer engages Garland in a conversation about music. He doesn't play an instrument. Alana reveals her dad is in a polka band. Garland reveals he likes to play polka. Wait! I thought you didn't play an instrument, Garland. I do, he says, I play with cards. You know, po-kah. No truth to the rumor that we are playing Texas Hold'em at the carnival.

Thanks for your prayers. Write back with a note and I'll try to get it to your student.

Ryan

Ministry Site Day One

2008-07-15T13:24:00.001-07:00

Let me back up and tell you about worship. Worship is lead by Todd Agnew who is a professional musician with 3-4 albums to date. He is very talented and has a unique but great voice for this type of music and songs that are very thoughtful and thought provoking. Probably my favorite was his rendition of Jesus Paid It Al l that we sang during the invitation. Yes, Dr. Smith gives an altar call after each message. He makes no bones about presenting the gospel. I think it is safe to say that Dr. Smith preaches like no one our kids have heard. If you're curious you can find podcasts of his messages on the internet. He is a powerful, gifted preacher. I would say our students will take a sermon or two to adjust to his style but he has a great deal to say and they will certainly be challenged.

One of Todd's songs has a lyric that "we run the race for the least of these" It's a song about showing compassion as Jesus does. That means a lot to us this week because no one is disenfranchised more than older adults and little children. The world isn't rushing to worry about a 5 year old in a housing project in Virginia or an Alzheimer' patient. That is not to say that people don't care, they do. But the world promotes the big, the strong, the wealthy, the attractive, the athletic and the intelligent. This week we get a chance to love some of the overlooked.

Our site (adult care center of Virginia) had about 25 particpants today. We got to meet them, play a little Bible trivia and then painted some little flower pots with them. Tomorrow we are singing hymns and putting on a puppet show. Shirley has already challenged me to a game of Pitty-Pat. I have no idea what card game that is but I'm willing to learn. Hopefully, we don't play for money. Our students did fine with the participants once they got used to each other. I think they really had a great time and are looking forward to tomorrow. We also get to listen to some music together in the church sanctuary. We are located in the United Methodist Church in downtown Lynchburg. I'm looking forward to seeing the sanctuary from the inside.

Our other group went to Brookside Housing Complex. They are doing backyard Bible club and had 8 kids come. They may be a little disappointed by the number but they got started and got their feet wet (some literally) and are ready to go back. Zack and Logan told the story of Jericho. Briley had the craft project and Hayley had the music. Tomorrow others are responsible for the program. Dan says they have a hand water pump that would handle a garden hose. His wheels are turning for having his last day be a water day. Pick up a cheap garden hose, some balloons and some plastic and we can have our own Fun in the Son!

Weather was beautiful today. 85 and sunny. Any rain would really hurt the childrens ministry.

Thanks for your prayers and encouragement notes.

Headline News

"It's Game Time", Shouts Justin Steward-Roommate tell him to go back to sleep

Kali Kyser Claims Monster Attacks Her in Dorm Room-Further investigation shows her sister, Kaitlyn, knows Kali is deathly afraid to be tickled and of course has to pursue her.

Wrong Way Diane Strikes Again -Only two wrong turns on trip back to campus. Story submitted by Dan McClintock

Law of Gravity Still Enforced- Cooler falls and spills contents. Dan claims he told them not to lift it by the lid

Al Doorlag Not Dead!-Seems he always sleeps in that position (all he needs is a silk lining and a pillow)

Thanks for your prayers

Ryan

Day One report

2008-07-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

Who knew they wouldn't have internet access in West Virginia? I didn't get a chance to blog last night but our travel day went without incident. We took off at 10:05 and made stops for lunch and fuel before stopping for the night in Beckley, WV at 8 pm. The weather was fine until we met a little rain 10 miles north of Beckley. Yes, fuel prices are still high. We spent about $100 per van to get 3/4 of a tank of gas in each. We're averaging about 15 mpg. We are thankful for the donations made at the hot dog roast so that we could make it here. The first night went smoothly, only a sleepwalker and one late night chaperone visit to a noisy room.

Students were up and ready to hit the road by our planned 8 am start time. We took I-64 over to Virginia and headed down 501 to Lynchburg. Let's just say I was glad to be in the front seat while we were winding our way along the James River toward our destination. Thanks to Diane's trusty navigation device (mostly trusty, check the headlines below) we located a Cici's Pizza Buffet for lunch when we arrived. I called ahead to prepare them for a 35 person rush. They were gracious and gave us a group discount at $5.00 a head for lunch and a drink. After a flood of paperwork and logistics we got to our dorm rooms and settled in. We should be quite comfortable. I have just finished orientation and will be heading to dinner. Tonight is worship service and some church group time. I'm looking forward to see how prepared we are for the next day's ministry.

My hope is to peck out a blog entry each day when we return from our ministry site around 3:30. I'll try to fill you in on the previous evening's activities and the day's event. Local weather appears to be 85-90 each day and fairly clear.

Thank you for your support and prayers.

Here are some random headlines. Each has a story and you're welcome to ask us when we se you.

Garmin Proves Not to Be 100% Reliable-Youth Group Visits Same WV Turnpike Toll Booth Three Times in Fifteen Minutes. Apparently there is no discount for frequent visitors!

Diane Ruins Nature Lover's Day-Mistakes Turtle on Road for Knee Pad (That's a sound I'll hear in my sleep)

No Cell Phones Detected-Youth Pastor Vows to Keep Looking (even though one did ring in the luggage during the send off meeting)

Al Decides it Best To Change Every Day-Keeps Jane from asking embarassing questions when all the laundry comes home clean.

Three Charlotte Teens Fit in One Bed to Avoid Contact with Chaperone- Chaperone reports wonderful night's sleep.

Ryan

Mission trip approaches

2008-07-08T18:48:00.000-07:00

I've done this mission trip thing a few times but I forget how many last minute details there are. Some paperwork is still needed. Maps and routes are being planned. Ministry details are being worked out. But eventually the day comes and there's no turning back. I'm really excited that this year we have an assignment already and have been able to plan and prepare. Last week Bev and I got to shop for crafts with a couple of our students. That's way more fun than logging in people's paperwork.

I do have one personal goal this year-no fire departments. This will be my fourth trip to lead. In year one there was a power shortage and a some of our guys got stuck in an elevator. In year two someone (yes, one of ours) pulled a fire alarm in the boys dorm. In year three one of our leaders took an early morning trip to the Gateway Arch and got stuck in the parking ramp elevator. And then there was the burning bag of popcorn that set off a smoke alarm in the boy's dorm (no, not one of ours). Four fire department runs in three years. Pretty impressive, huh? I wonder what's next. I hope to make regular postings while on the trip. Hopefully the university network will cooperate.

Power Lab Bible School 2008-Rocket Launch

2008-06-27T06:22:00.000-07:00

We had a great week at Bible school. We had an average attendance of 25 in our seventh and eighth grade Power Lab. We did a little science, learned why a diaper can hold so much ... liquid. We learned about Archimedes' principle, Bernoulli's principle, surface tension, polymers and ions. It sure beat learning it in school. We didn't give tests.

Our group also learned how to fly. We built model rockets and you can check out some of the pictures here and more at our website. Thanks to Pastor Robin for taking them.

Thanks to Nate Menzie for his help and all of the kids for coming.

Next year the theme has something to do with crocodiles. I'm thinking of cooking up some alligator...

The resurrection of the blog

2008-06-27T06:13:00.000-07:00

We're back and hope to be more consistent with information for you. Today's blog is just to keep everyone up to speed on ministries for the summer.

S.N.O.T. Sunday Night Over There

Sunday, June 29 at 6:00 pm-8:00 pm We are meeting at the Freeman's at 2032 West Kalamo Highway for SNOT. Come and enjoy some time with your friends.

MISSION TRIP

1. Complete your medical releases and wiavers and get them turned in. They MUST BE NOTARIZED!

2. Final fundraiser is on July 6 after the 11 am service. We are having a cookout and mission trip participants should bring either a salad or dessert.

3. Final payments are due this week. Please check with me to see what your final balance is.

That's enough for now. Be watching for posts about Bible school and Cedar Point

Oh the stories we could tell

2007-07-19T14:23:00.000-07:00

It wouldn't be a Ryan Manning led mission trip without the fire department. Yes, two years ago we had students stuck in an elevator. last year we pulled a fire alarm. This year Al went on an early morning expedition of the Arch. He was using an elevator in a parking ramp and sure enough it closed and didn't move. 911 brought the frie department and he was rescued. It just had to happen sometime.

Yesterday on site Matt manning's group had an opportunity to lead two kids to the Lord.

Our seniors, Sara, Hannah, Taryn, Matt, Tyler, Pat and Phil are a special group. They really get it when it comes to mission trips. I appreciate their leadership and encouragement. They will be missed but God will raise up new leaders in their place. We will miss them next time around. Although I am kicking around an idea to have a college age mission experience early next summer. Respond to that if you ahve a thought.

New friendships are being made and who knows where they will lead. I had a nice chance to talk with some staffers about some special needs of our kids. I are grateful for their concern to minister specifically to them.

Finally, one cell phone story. As you know, I imposed a cell phone moratorium. Last night Diane was heading down the hall and a group of girls were congregating. When asked what they were doing, they said, "ordering a pizza." It took Diane a few steps to realize that meant a phone was in use and since there are none in the rooms... End result was a confiscated phone.

Mike has a story to share:
Hello there, Mike here. I will be sharing this story tonight at group devotion time and am extremely excited about it. Today our track, which is a "creative track," visited Salvation Army Temple to spend the day with the kids there. After an intense game of kickball we made it to the playground where I was unable to push all of the kids on the swings at once. I recruited the help of some very able-bodied FBC individuals (Laura Pfost and Hannah Heacock). As we were swinging I approached Dominique, eight years old, about where she lived, and whether or not she attended a church. She said she goes to church sometimes at the Salvation Army Temple. I told her that was very good and then I asked her if she had heard about Jesus. She said she had, and so I asked if I could speak to her about how "cool" He is. She told me she would like that and so we headed to the closest bench in sight and upon our arrival to the bench, Liah came up to listen to me as well. Dominique left all of a sudden (must be the attention span). Liah stayed by and wanted to hear what I had to say. We talked with each other for about 30 minutes. During this time, the rest of the group had left the playground and headed back to the building. A leader stayed behind with us to walk us back up when we were finished. Liah asked me all sorts of quests about Jesus. I shared with her how a person becomes a Christian. I told her some of the cool stories from the Bible and read several verses with her. As we approached the end of the conversation, Liah looked at me and told me she didn't know how to ask Jesus in her heart and that she would like to do that. We prayed together on that bench park, in the middle of St. Louis and right there next to the swingset, Liah became my, our, newest sister in Christ!

I am on cloud nine as we head to dinner, worship and devotions tonight. Please pray for Liah. I also later had a chance to sit down with Dominique (the girl from earlier) along with Hannah Heacock and we shared the story of Jesus Christ with her as well. She asked some questions and showed some mild interest. I gave her a Bible that we received this week and told her to "pinky swear" with me that she would read some of it and speak with the next group that comes next week. Please pray for Dominique this week and next. Thanks so much for all of your support.

Heat Wave Hits St Louis

2007-07-18T14:10:00.001-07:00

It's true. The thermoneter hit 101 at the park today. I'm guessing there are plenty of sunburns and weary bodies.

Yesterday evening we had worship and group devotions. Worship was contemplative and put students in the place to think about where they are with Christ. Students were quiet as we headed to group devotions. The noise began to rise as we talked about our days. From fixing 7000 meals to working with kids to Jason Weaver (who lives on a farm and works on the farm) who came all the way to St Louis to do work on, you guessed it, a farm. What are the odds. Everyone had stories to tell and future plans to pray over. It was wonderful to know kids were getting into doing mission. We finished by giving out the prayer notes from prayer partners. They are a big encouraging boost as the activity level rises and the energy level drops.

Night Life had games with some of our kids coming out winners. It was loud and energetic and our students really get into the spirit of things. I just smile and enjoy the view even when they laugh at my "dance moves".

After midnight hackey sack we headed for our rooms. The girls are always in on time and doing the right thing.

Its back to breakfast and Bible study in the morning. I got my first call that a student was missing. Mike went search for him and there was a _______ sighting. He made it, just slightly late.

I went to site wondering how it would be. Hobo Park is the place for St Louis' homeless to pass the day. We took popsicles and water and sandwiches. I had some great conversations with Roy and Tim and James and a theological discussion with Leroy about whether one had to speak in tongues to be truly saved. We agreed to disagree and he told of God's call to preach. Students were stretched to make contact and literally "walk across the room" to tell their story. Leighla, Phil, Jessika and Heather were there with me. Ask them what they experienced.

I'm sweaty and a bird pooped on me and I'm going to go lower my core body temperature. It's so hot they cancelled mega relay for the day.

Dinner then worship then group devotions. Pray that God keeps working. God bless you in prayer meeting tonight. Thanks for praying.

First Day On Site

2007-07-17T14:32:00.000-07:00

Since I last left you we had evening worship, track time and group devotions. We were challenged to enjoy the good things of camp but reminded not to miss the best thing. That is a relationship with Jesus. We met our track leaders and kids now know where they are heading this week. Most kids are with at least one other student from FBC but not always. At group devotions we got a chance to share in small groups where we are heading and admit to something that we may be fearful of. Then they prayed for each other that God would give them opportunities to share His love. We ended with a note for each camper from Bev. Thanks for the encouragement. We did eventually make it to bed. "Lights out" is 11 pm and it seemed to finally settle down by midnight. I can't vouch for the girl's dorm. My favorite story came from Mitch. He's got a student from a small town of 400 people in Mississippi. That kid was impressed with our 10,000 person city. He wanted to know if Mitch had ever seen a cow. Apparently we are "leaving children behind" in the geography department. Mitch asked if they had fast food. No, but they just got a Dollar General. Kids are ready to go.

Everyone made an appearance at breakfast and are getting geared up for the day. They will have devotions with their track leader and then we'll be off. This morning we were challenged to see those that are abandoned by society. The elderly, the disabled, widows, orphans... We were reminded that God never, ever abandon us even though we may feel abandoned.

For send-off, I got a chance to interview for a job in the subway. It's an ongoing gag to introduce youth pastors and give them a pat on the back. The kids fill out the applications. It seems my greatest qualifications are my prodigious eyebrows and my one-time experience of kissing a horse. You'll have to ask them. Honestly, I do love these kids and am priveleged to be here. They're doing great!

I just got back from site at the Salvation Army Temple. I've seen a few kids and some had really good days. Some are not quite sure. That's ok. Everyone is getting stretched. Your prayers are appreciated. Tonight we will worship and an invitation will be given. Pray that kids will listen when God speaks. We will have group devotions where we will distribute your prayer partner notes. Thank you for doing them and they will make an impact on each student. Students will get their chance to share with the whole group and their small group about what happened today. It's always good to process things together. Good and bad. I'm sure I can tell you more specifics tomorrow. Right now I am seeking dinner and hoping to encourage some junior high boys to visit and use the shower.

Day One

2007-07-16T14:41:00.000-07:00

We collected at church at 5:30 am. Everyone made it by 5:40 and we hit the road by 6:03. Only one hiccup to report. Meagan needed her tennis shoes. Diane surged ahead and met her mom at the Turkeyville exit. Problem solved.

The trip went as scheduled. We stopped for lunch. Bev and Erika had gone ahead and had Subway sandwiches and chips and cookies ready when we reached the Welcome Center in Illinois. It was nice to see them and I'm grateful for all the time and effort they put in to make this trip a reality. Bev especially.

Back on the road and off to St Louis. We arrived right on schedule, a little after 2:00 pm local time. After a group photo we were off to register. Note to self. Next year, light-colored shirts. It's at least 90 and a black shirt is not a good idea for this overweight Italian. After a mountain of information that I am unable to process we went find our rooms.

Girls are in Oak Hall which is newly renovated and they seem to have got everyone situated. Girls are in suites of 4 or 5 with a bathroom to share. Boys are in Legras Hall which is not so newly renovated. Boys are two to a room with community bathrooms. We have the third floor to ourselves. We were told by housing that if we messed around on the elevator it would go "off-rail" and get stuck. This requires a fire department visit and a $250 fine. Funny they should mention that given our last two year's track record.

Dinner is at 5:00 and then the meetings begin. First is opening celebration and then its off to meet our track leaders and our ministry team. There we will get a plan for the week's ministry. Then its our first worship service and group devotions.

We're all just getting our bearings in this new campus. Should be interesting for a guy who has trouble getting anywhere. I'm sure someone will have pity on me and show me where to go.

Right now everyone is safe and accounted for. That's the first answer to your prayers. Please pray that everyone adjusts to the new environment and that God will start working right now. I doubt I'll be back until tomorrow.

Ryan

Big Day for Us

2007-07-15T04:38:00.000-07:00

Today is a huge day. The vans are here and Sunday is packed with activity. The church will be commisioning us this morning and all of our students and leaders will be matching up with their prayer partners. It's important for our church family to be behind us in prayer. We really appreciate their love and concern.

Lunch will be pizza! This is our last fundraiser of the season. It's simple but gives our students a chance to eat with their prayer partner and get to know them just a little bit before they leave.

Tonight we will be going over the last minute details with parents. Kids are to bring their one large suitcase and we will try to pack the vans with those this evening.

There's lots to do before 5:30 tomorrow morning.

Prayer Partners

2007-06-11T07:19:00.000-07:00

Prayer partners are being sought for each mission trip student and chaperone. We are looking for people that will commit to praying every day for their partner and compose two notes that the students will read while they are away. Students will be making presentations in adult Sunday school classes very soon. We'd love to have you support us in this most important way.

New Fundraising Idea

2007-06-11T07:16:00.000-07:00

The next fundraiser will be held on Friday night, June 15 from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm. Maureen Brooks (Taylor's mom) is holding a Premier Jewelry Party in our youth room. Everyone is welcome to browse and buy. The profits are being donated to the expense of the mission trip.

Test

2007-06-11T06:38:00.000-07:00

Dan & I are testing this stuff out!