From the Desk of Pastor Ahmad Washington, MSW, MDiv

Parents and church family,

Just like that… summer is coming to a close.

It's hard to believe we're already preparing for the start of another school year. Band camps have begun. Choir camps are underway. Football practices are in full swing. Volleyball tryouts have started. Students are getting schedules, preparing for new teachers, transitioning from middle school to high school, and for some of our families, preparing for a senior year filled with exciting opportunities and important decisions.

This season is exciting—but it can also bring a lot of pressure.

Before the pace of the school year fully takes over, I want to encourage you to have a simple conversation with your student.

Ask them:

• What are you most excited about this school year?
• What are you most nervous about?

Sometimes those two questions can open the door to some of the most meaningful conversations you'll have all semester.

I'm doing the very same thing in my own home with my college student and my high school student. Before everyone gets busy running in different directions, it's good to slow down, check in, and simply listen.

This Wednesday marks the beginning of our Youth Planning & Support Team Meetings, and I couldn't be more excited.



🗓 Wednesdays in August

🕕 6:00–7:30 PM

Throughout the month, students will help dream, pray, and plan for:

• SHINE 2027
• Season Two of the Faith In Real Life Podcast
• Future youth events
• Topics and Bible studies they'd like to explore this semester

One of my goals is to continue building a youth ministry with our students, not simply for them. Their ideas, perspectives, and experiences matter, and I believe God often gives vision to young people when we make room to listen.

Students are welcome to eat dinner before they come or bring their meal with them. We'll provide snacks, but not a full dinner.

A heartfelt thank you to those who have already signed up or donated snacks for our planning meetings. If you'd still like to help, it's not too late! Homemade cookies, brownies, Rice Krispie treats, or other goodies are always appreciated as we spend time seeking God's direction for what He has ahead of us.

Youth Sunday School continues each week with fellowship, time in God's Word, and meaningful small-group discussion.

This past Sunday, Eric Morrison led an excellent lesson exploring the biblical and theological truths found in the Apostles' Creed.

Students discussed not only what the Creed says, but why it still matters today and how it provides a solid foundation for young believers living in an ever-changing world.

I'm grateful for Eric's faithful investment in our students and the thoughtful conversations that continue to grow from our Sunday mornings together.

I'm excited to share that our monthly Open Mic, Worship & Prayer Night returns later this month!

📅 Sunday, August 16

🕡 6:30–8:00 PM

📍 Youth Room

This has become one of my favorite gatherings each month as students encourage one another through music, testimonies, spoken word, art, Scripture, prayer, and worship.

Whether your student wants to participate or simply come and be encouraged, everyone is welcome.

And as always…

Bring a friend.

Church family,

As we begin a new school year, let's commit to praying intentionally for our students.

Pray for confidence where there is fear.

Pray for wisdom where there is uncertainty.

Pray for courage to live for Jesus in classrooms, on athletic fields, in choir rooms, on stages, in band halls, and everywhere God places them.

Our prayer is that our students won't simply survive another school year—they will faithfully shine the light of Christ wherever they go.

Thank you for continuing to pray, support, encourage, and invest in the next generation. It is a joy to serve alongside you.

With gratitude and expectation,

Pastor Ahmad Washington, MSW, MDiv

Youth Director

First Methodist Church Waco

ahmad@firstwaco.com

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