From the Desk of the International Director

Dear friend,

Every life changed by Jesus is a story worth telling.

In this EVERY, you'll meet young people from Australia, Kenya, Southeast Asia, and the United States whose lives are being transformed by God through Youth for Christ, through you.

While each story is unique, they all point to the same truth: God is still changing lives. Across more than 120 nations, Youth for Christ staff and volunteers are walking alongside young people, sharing the hope of Christ, and trusting God to do what only He can do.

Thank you for being a part of the story God is writing around the world. I pray these stories encourage your faith and remind you that God is working through your prayers and partnership.

Serving Christ together,

Dave Brereton

International Director

A New Beginning - Kenya

For a long time, John believed he had gone too far for God to still love him.

One bad decision after another was pulling him deeper into drugs, pornography, and unhealthy relationships. His school performance was slipping. His relationship with his family was growing strained. When he received a warning letter at school, it felt like the final confirmation of his fears. He wanted to change, but the struggle felt overwhelming and painfully lonely.

Then something changed.

During a Youth for Christ gathering in Eldoret, Kenya, John heard a message about sexual purity and a God of second chances. As he listened, it felt like the message was speaking directly to him.

"For the first time in a long while, I felt seen—not judged, not condemned, but invited," he says. "I was reminded that failure does not define me and that God's love had not given up on me, even when I had nearly given up on myself."

When the invitation was given, John didn't hesitate. He stood first. At first, some of his friends laughed. Then, seeing he was serious, two of them stood and joined him.

Today, John is discovering that his past does not define his future.

"My journey is just beginning," John says, "but now it has a new direction—one filled with hope, healing, and purpose."

Laying His Burdens at Jesus' Feet - USA

"To this day I have never again seen my biological mom or my biological siblings, and I have no idea where they live."

As a young child, Toby was carrying burdens no child should ever have to bear. While his mother was gone for hours at a time, he was caring for his younger siblings. At the same time, he was enduring physical and sexual abuse.

His mother told him she could no longer care for three children. Toby entered foster care, moving from one placement to another. "After being removed from my home, I was beginning to feel that I wasn't worth much to anyone," he says.

But God wasn't finished with Toby's story.

"In the middle of all my struggles, God was looking out for me!" Toby says. A Christian couple, sensing God's call to adopt, welcomed him into their family. "They adopted me and have not only loved me and accepted me as their own child but have also given me the resources to begin healing from the trauma of being abused."

Today, Toby is discovering hope through Wheels, Youth for Christ Central Minnesota’s hands-on mentorship program where teens learn automotive skills. "The weekly shop talks are awesome, and it really feels like a family as we work together."

Toby is learning that Jesus' invitation in Matthew 11 is true—he no longer has to carry his burdens alone.

The prayer team would love to pray for you and any concerns you may have. Please let us know by clicking the image above.

Your generosity ensures that lost young people have the opportunity to be followers of Jesus. You are reaching young people everywhere.