GROWTH IN YOUNG ADULTS

​Last night I spent time eating pizza and meeting with Bethel’s young adult leaders. We thanked God for His many blessings this year. Since September, Bethel’s Young Adult ministries have undergone a few key changes. I am happy to report that they have paid dividends. The ministry has grown and seen new fruit! Bethel’s young adults are growing in the “grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 3:18).
 
One of those key changes was that the leadership team was expanded to include Meghan Clarke, Alan Wedman, Kristy  Bootsma, and Helen Krol. I want to briefly tell you about their work.
 
Helen and Kristy have been targeting students at King’s University. Kristy has been leading a Bible Study there monthly, while Helen has been facilitating transportation between Kings and Bethel. As a result of these consistent options for students, the number of King’s students at Bethel on a Sunday has increased. This relationship between King’s and Bethel will continue to blossom as we become a sustained presence there.
 
As many churches can attest, at times it can be a challenge to help students transition from youth group to young adult’s ministry. To help smooth this significant life change, Alan Wedman, (after serving 22 years in youth ministries) has made the transition to young adult leader. He has been hosting socials for the purpose of helping these students move into a new stage in their life. The last one was especially encouraging.
 
You will often see Meghan Clarke making an announcement at church on Sundays. God has given her a passion for people and an innovative mind to solve problems. This year she leads a monthly Bible study, and just last Sunday led the first “Café Time” for young adults. This was a spontaneous idea, that we believe was inspired by the Holy Spirit, as we pondered “How can we connect the different groups of young adult’s all together on a Sunday?” What a blessing it was to see King’s students connect with our grade 12-ers, and our youth leaders with those who drive a long way to church!
 
What else is coming down the pipe this year? How can you pray for us? There is a young adult Holy-Spirit-encounter-retreat in the mountains in June! We expect big things from God!
 
If you are a young adult looking to get better connected in Bethel, or you know a twenty-something who needs Christian community, talk to one of these fine volunteer leaders. There are lots of opportunities and places to find a fit in Bethel’s young adult’s ministries!
 
                                                                                                                               - Pastor Ryan

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