Franklin Baptist Church youth group and leaders enjoying a moment at camp.
A Time of Spiritual Growth
During the six years I’ve been the pianist at Franklin Baptist Church in Salisbury, NC, I’ve watched the youth group grow and develop into teens ready to share their love of God with others.
Last month they shared their love of God through a Fourth of July play. Set during the 50’s in a school room anywhere USA, the youth shared historic examples of how America was founded on Christian principles. Giving up free time to practice, they also provided their own costumes and props. The girls especially loved wearing poodle skirts they borrowed from the Meroney Theater in Salisbury.
The congregation loved the efforts the youth made to demonstrate love of God and patriotism for our country. One veteran stood up afterwards and said, It’s refreshing to see young people show respect for our country. I want to say thank-you.
The next morning, this same group hopped on a van for a trip to Gatlinburg, Tenn. and a week long Bible study. The leaders of the group, Lee and Cindy Dupre along with Gene and Michelle Hatfield volunteer time each week to work with the teens.
Cindy said the most important reason for the retreat was to spend time in the Bible, allowing the teens to grow in wisdom. Each year Lee is the one responsible for planning the Bible study. This year he chose Proverbs. Every day the youth read four chapters with discussions afterward.
Although the most important aspect of the retreat is to help the youth grow in their Christian faith, there’s no doubt, fun is important, too. Cindy said it’s through fellowship and fun that relationships are built. Some of the activities enjoyed by all were Dollywood, Splash Country and picnic at the Chimneys in the Mountains.
To show how much they learned, when the youth returned from their week-long retreat, they asked if they could share. Pastor Joe agreed. Everyone was amazed at the wisdom and maturity these young people exhibited as they spoke during the Sunday morning service about what they had learned and experienced. One said Proverbs is her favorite book in the Bible now because of the wisdom and knowledge that can be gained from reading it. Maybe we all should spend a little time in Proverbs. After all, Solomon, the writer of that book said, The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.
When asked what they liked best about the retreat, several were quick to respond.
Ethan Aguilera: What I liked best about the retreat was learning about wisdom and how it applies in our everyday life by differentiating between right and wrong. The way we learn is by reading our Bible.
Jordan Plummer: Our youth retreats are always filled with fun, fellowship, laughter and most of all, God. There is never a dull moment. I’m blessed to have the youth group I do.
Garrett Beck: Our youth retreat this year was a blast and a blessing. Having quiet time both in the morning and the evening creates an atmosphere of God’s word. This year’s retreat was filled with God’s word, friends and fun.
Cindy said, This is a great group of young people, giving and accepting of each other.
From their testimony and witness, Cindy, I’d have to agree, but then again, they have awesome leaders. Do you have a youth group at your church? What activities are they involved in to build relationships and spiritual growth? Leave a comment below, message on Facebook or email dicysm@yahoo.com.
Thanks,
Dicy
