St. Alban's Episcopal Church

But those who wait for the Lord will renew their strength. They will mount up with wings like eagles. They will run, and not be weary. They will walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31

This verse always gives me a renewed sense of purpose and makes me feel like I am filled with the Spirit to accomplish anything. What a powerful verse to inspire such emotion and feeling and the best example I can give of this is being the Director of Children, Youth, and Families Ministry and the renewed strength I get back from it. There are many stories I can tell, but most recently my greatest moments have come from service projects with our youth. There was a Youth Group meeting a couple weeks ago where we were making tie-knot blankets for Bright Blessings, a non-profit organization benefiting homeless children. I used this opportunity to follow up with our youth from the previous service project of making Valentine’s for those at the Pines and those unable to get to church. I read one of the thank you notes we had received and reinforced the idea with them that you never know what impact even a small gesture can have to the world around you. This was followed by a great share circle on what was happening in their lives, where I became acutely aware of the community of youth that has really come together. As I listened, I became overwhelmed with the comfort they had to not only share, but also to be a cohesive group. My strength was renewed!

Youth is only a part of my job, so I would be remiss in not telling stories or at least moments I experience with the younger children, whom I very affectionately refer to as “the littles”. They surprise me all the time and bring me so much joy. There are those that run up and hug my leg saying nothing, even when I am unaware they see me, and immediately I and whoever I am speaking with at the time put our hands over our hearts and are strengthened. Many other of my littlest littles only make eye contact, look at me a certain way, and give a big grin. In that moment, I know I am doing God’s work and I am strengthened. May we all be so blessed to be surrounded by children and youth, that with even a look or sharing of themselves can strengthen us. If God is calling you to contribute to children and youth, please come join us, we would love to have you!