15 years ago, when I first got my feet wet in youth ministry, I was hooked. I remember it clearly: I was volunteering as a cabin leader at a Wildlife retreat in Lake Arrowhead – there was plenty of snow on the ground and the sledding was fast and furious. (I still have a scar on my wrist to prove it!) Was I serving the Lord or was I having the fun of a lifetime? The answer…BOTH! So I left that first retreat eager and intent on making students a part of my life, hoping to have an impact on their lives, but hardly knowing the impact they would have on mine. Here are a few things they’ve taught me over the years…
Young people (college, high school and junior high students) can genuinely experience the joy, abundance, and transforming power of a living relationship with Jesus Christ. Adolescence is a prime time for making crucial decisions, and I’ve been so blessed to witness students giving their lives to Jesus, entering the waters of baptism, rededicating their present and future to Him, and deciding to pursue Him into adulthood, even if it means full-time ministry. 1 Timothy 4:12 states, “Let no one look down on your youthfulness, but rather in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity, show yourself an example of those who believe.”

“The greatest of these is love.” Whether it’s the motive behind a message, a short conversation, a note of encouragement, or a simple e-mail, love and its expression speaks volumes. In youth ministry, there are so many opportunities to share love, simply because students are eager and hungering for it (who among us isn’t?). And when a foundation of love is established, you’d be surprised what a beautiful and sturdy life can be built!
Another thing I’ve learned from my students is not to underestimate or overlook the passion, excitement and heart of emotion they demonstrate. The psalmist writes in Psalm 71:17-18, “O God, You have taught me from my youth, And I still declare Your wondrous deeds. 18 And even when I am old and gray, O God, do not forsake me, Until I declare Your strength to this generation, Your power to all who are to come.” I’ve been humbled and taught by the passionate hearts I’ve witnessed among my students – hearts eager to learn, to evangelize, to invite friends, to worship, to serve, and to be used by God.
Last but not least, we must understand that as blessed the season of adolescence is, it is also a very vulnerable and susceptible time of life. Now more than ever, our young people are finding themselves faced with temptations, distractions, obstacles, and diversions that oppose God’s plan for their lives. Satan, himself, “prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” (1 Peter 5:8) We NEED dedicated and devoted Christians who will intercede, mentor, and serve as youth advisors for our students. When we consider both the potential risks and potential victories that young people face, we will come to the conclusion that there are few callings higher than youth ministries.
It has been my privilege and blessing to serve as the youth pastor here at Evergreen SGV.

Humbly yours,
Pastor Adam