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| January - February 2008 | Volume 57, Issue 1 |
I was recenty asked, “What is ‘Olivet Youth?’ ” It made me stop and pause, because, as a volunteer youth leader, I easi ly forget that other people at Olivet do not have the opportuni t ies to hang out wi th our youth on a regular basis. They may not realize what a treasure we have in our youth, and they may not realize how valuable and important faith-based youth activit ies are for the teens involved.
Two weeks ago, we asked the youth a simiar, simple queston. “What does Olivet Youth mean to you?” The answers the youth came back with can help answer the or iginal quest ion of “What is Olivet Youth?”
- Olivet Youth is “hanging out with awesome people”
I am constantly amazed by our youth, at how their individual personalities and interests shape and mold them during their teenage years. They always keep us laughing, smiling, and wondering what will come next.
- Olivet Youth is “a place to feel accepted”
With so many pres sures placed on teens today – pressures to act a certain way, to think a certain way, to look a certain way – Olivet Youth strive to have an open door and open arms approach, welcoming each teen as an individual , loving them for who they are today.
- Olivet Youth is “a chance to grow in faith”
We strive to root our discussions on our faith, scripture, and how the two affect our daily lives. We encourage teens to think, challenge, and discuss, meeting them at a pivotal time in their lives where they are figuring out who they are, what they believe, and how the two interact .
- Olivet Youth is “a family”
Bringing fun, faith, and friendships together creates a unique family where teens are accepted, welcomed, and chal lenged to grow. The youth support and encourage each other, giving each one a sense of belonging within the larger faith family of Olivet. This relationship transforms Olivet from a building into a welcoming home and family.
So, “What is Olivet Youth?”
Yes, somet imes we’re a rowdy bunch that runs around playing games, bickering, and forgetting to take out the trash. But more importantly, we are a faith family, welcoming, accepting, and growing together.
God Bless, Kim Ward, Youth Advisor
OYEA!!
Friends (grades 5-12) are always welcome!
Please call or email with any questions:
Kim Ward – 215-450-1223 kimberlydward@hotmail.com
Nicole and Chris Vogel – 610-967-9067
February 10 – 6:00 – 7:30 pm Regular Youth Meeting
February 24 – Join us for the Seder meal in Fellowship Hall at 5:00 pm. This is a great chance to learn something about the Jewish roots of our faith and some of the traditions Jesus followed
March activities and meeting dates to be announced
Spring Retreat: There’s barely been any snow, but it’s already time to start planning for our annual retreat at Camp Brainerd on an April date soon to be revealed More details about the retreat will follow soon!
Senior High Suppers: Senior Highers (grades 9-12) meet together on the first and third Tuesdays of each month for food and fellowship. Suppers are a great time to gather together, to hang out, and to chat about what’s important to you.
Never tried a Senior High Supper? Come and join us! February 5 February 19 March 4 March 18
