Children & Youth Ministries Weekly Update

You Matter

“Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.” — 1 Timothy 4:12

The Apostle Paul knew Timothy had leadership skills. He saw it as they traveled together, ministered together, ate together, lived life together. But Timothy was just a kid… what impact could he possibly make within the early church? Obviously, he’d have to wait his turn to lead, right?

Wrong! Paul says very clearly to Timothy that age isn’t a barrier for God’s call on your life. Whether you’re 3, 13, 33 or 63, the Good News of God can be shared through the example we set for those we meet at school, work, on the soccer field, and in our own houses. 

This is exciting for the church today… and as the new Director of Youth Ministry, I find so much hope in Paul’s words to Timothy for our youth today and in the future!

Kids, zero to eighteen – you matter. You can share God’s love by how you speak to others, the way you treat your friends, the love you show to the kid who doesn’t fit, and the way you respect your body and others’ bodies.

Caregivers – you matter. The way you speak to your child will shape how they speak to others. The opportunities you give them to make choices and mentor them through those choices, good or bad, will impact their ability to conduct themselves in a way that glorifies God when you’re not there. How we talk about bodies, relationships, and self-esteem model healthy boundaries and healthy self-worth.

In ministry, I cringe when I hear people say “Kids are the future of the church” because I believe kids are the church today, in the same way adults are the church today. When adults empower kids and youth to lead through example, in word and deed, we are empowering them to be the people God has created them to be.

This week – give your kid a chance to lead, to set an example in speech, conduct, love, faith and purity. Invite them into decision making. Ask them their opinion. Talk through something hard and let them come to the conclusion. No matter how old, God uses all of us, youngest to oldest, for His glory. And as a parent, you matter in empowering your child to be the leaders of today and of the future!

Sarah

Announcements

Work Camp Student and Leader Meeting

Sunday, April 12

6:00pm

Youth Center

There are still spots available on Work Camp & we would LOVE for your high school student to join us! If you're still on the fence or aren't sure what Work Camp is, come to the meeting Sunday to hear more. If you are already registered for Work Camp, we will see you at this mandatory meeting (students and adult leaders only). Register here.

Summer Internships

We are currently accepting applications for Children’s and Youth Ministry summer internships. Paid Lead Interns will focus on either Children’s or Youth Ministry and must have completed high school by the start of the internship. College-aged young adults are encouraged to apply. Students currently in 9th grade and older may apply to serve as Volunteer Interns and will gain experience in both Children’s and Youth Ministry. Interns will spend part of each day together as a large group for devotionals, training, and other activities, in addition to working on projects specific to their area of ministry. The internship lasts 9 weeks. Lead and Volunteer Interns must apply. Applications are due by Sunday, April 12, and interviews will take place on Sunday, April 26. Apply here.

Bike Hike Parent Info Meeting

Wednesday, April 15

7:30pm

Conference Room in the Main Office

Parents are encouraged to join Sarah for the last 30 minutes of youth group to hear about Bike Hike - come ready with your questions. We will still have normal Middle School Youth Group from 6:00-8:00pm. Register for Bike Hike here.

Middle School Night of Unending Games

Saturday, April 18

6:00-10:00pm

Youth Center

Games, games and more games! We are excited to have you come hang out with us at the church for a fun evening of games. Please pre-register here.

Youth Parent Meet & Greets

Sarah Tunall, our new Director of Youth Ministries, is excited to get to know the parents of our current middle school and high school youth. Join her at Leonardo's Pizzeria for a causal meal - pizza is on us!

Middle School Parents - Friday, April 17, 6:00pm

High School Parents - Friday, April 24, 6:00pm

Vacation Bible School - SAVE THE DATE

Monday, June 29-Thursday, July 2 (New Dates)

Marketplace is back!

Women's Retreat - Restored and Re-Storied

April 24-26

Aldersgate Lodge Turner, OR

Gather together as we experience how God restores and re-stories our hearts. Share this with beloved women in your life, space is limited! For those blessed by the ministry of Pastor Bruce Armstrong, there will be a time to honor his life on Saturday afternoon hosted by Mary Sisson. Register here by April 13.

Cost:

• Full Retreat: $275
• Saturday Day Participate: $100
• Commuter Price for full weekend: $135 (meals, no lodging)

All Church Camping Adventure

August 14-16

Millersylvania State Park

Registration is now open for our all church camping weekend at Millersylvania State Park just south of Olympia. We have reserved 30 tent sites and 2 RV sites. Spend your days swimming and enjoying non-motorized boating on Deep Lake, relaxing by the water, or exploring the hiking and biking trails in the park and nearby. Other attractions in Thurston County are also close at hand. Use this time to slow down, recharge, connect with friends and family, and enjoy God’s beautiful creation. We will provide dinner meat and fixings for Friday and Saturday, and coffee in the mornings. $60 for the first adult and $10 for each additional human (no pets please). Registration is first come, first served. Once the spots are gone, they are gone. Register here.

Contemplative Yoga Classes

Tuesdays and Thursdays

The classes are led by Stephanie Bisch and there are several class and time options.

Click here for more information.

Tifny Mathena, Director of Children & Intergenerational Ministries

tifny@columbiapresbyterian.org

Sarah Tunall, Director of Youth Ministries

sarah@columbiapresbyterian.org

Anna Haagenson, Director of Grove 345 and Children's Music

anna@columbiapresbyterian.org

Viva Dennis, Administrative Associate for Children's Ministry

viva@columbiapresbyterian.org

Katie Mrochko, Administrative Associate for Youth Ministry

katie@columbiapresbyterian.org

Lindsey Wright, Childcare Coordinator

lindsey@columbiapresbyterian.org

Laura Ericcsen, Circle of Friends Preschool Director

laura@columbiapresbyterian.org

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