TANKLEHANE

A Salute to DCB

2012-01-10T09:30:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite worship bands has decided to call it quits. Many of you may already know this news. The David Crowder Band decided that their 7th album would be their final album as a band. They performed live for the last time at Passion 2012. It's pretty heartbreaking but I'm thankful and blessed by the music that they've put out. Thanks for all you guys have done over the years!!

Here's a video of one of their final performances.

Pretty Awesome Start to a New Year!!

2012-01-06T11:47:00.007-05:00

As the new year begins and I try to re-launch into the blogosphere, I thought this would be a great way to start the New Year. Despite all the resolutions we make from year to year about what we're going to do, here is a group of high school and college students who decided to help change the lives of others, to DO SOMETHING NOW, and to help other earn their FREEDOM. When you hear about this, some of the resolutions we make about not eating chocolate, not spending so much on clothes, dieting, etc. seem pretty small.

It's a New Year...
Let's all DREAM BIG on how God would use us to impact the lives of many!

Preteen Camp Worship

2011-08-01T13:39:00.001-04:00

Our Preteens are rocking out singing praises to God right now. Pretty cool sight...

More "Greater Than" Pictures

2011-07-12T00:38:00.003-04:00

Here are some pictures for you to check out from Day 2 of camp as well as from today.

Celebration Session Sunday, July 10, 2011

Kalahari:

Greater TAWG Experience:

Last night and today were pretty stinking awesome and God has been speaking to our students on how He wants to be GREATER THAN anything else in their life. Continue to pray as camp comes to an end and their GREATER THAN journey begins...

More pics later from our final evening session together.

Day 2 - Team Activities

2011-07-10T23:44:00.003-04:00

Here are some pictures from our Great Team Relay Race Today!

Here are some pictures from our new game, CRUD Wars!!!

Both of these activities were TONS of FUN!!!!

Jr. High Camp Day 1

2011-07-10T16:11:00.003-04:00

Today has been an amazing day loaded with lots of fun activities with students. We just finished some relay races, a new game called CRUD Wars and swimming in the lake. We'll have some more photos up later from today but here our some from our first day/evening together.

Jr Hi Camp Relay Race

2011-07-10T13:19:00.001-04:00

Lots of team activities today like our Relay Race here at Jr Hi Camp....

Next Up...CRUD WARS!!!

Jr. High Fun - Re-enactment of Rango

2011-03-25T16:51:00.002-04:00

Here's some more Jr. High fun for you. I've yet to see the movie Rango but if it's as funny as Cooper doing a re-enactment of it, it's a must see!!

Lehane Adventure Day

2011-03-24T13:14:00.000-04:00

Out and about with family and in-laws from Idaho. We're looking for some adventures today. I think this guy might have some insight for us.

Day 3 - Wednesday

2010-12-30T07:37:00.003-05:00

We had lots of activity going on once again. It's been great seeing different groups of students diving in and getting to know one another who didn't connect before this retreat. Whether it was playing broomball together, tubing down the hill or climbing the wall it's been great watching students smile and laugh together.

Last night we looked at some key principles that we need to put into practice if we want to live courageously like Daniel...

We need to live consistently in front of others and the platform God has given us

Be in constant communication with God

Live confidently in the identity and purpose God has for our life

Stand strong in our resolve to obey God

Several students responded tonight, talking and sharing with leaders areas that they have been struggling to give God complete control of so they can stand out for Him. Other students confessed their need to make a change in their behavior and priorities so they can really get to know Christ in a deeper relationship then what they do right now.

After our session we headed to the game to play a nice friendly game of TubeWars in the gym. It's hard to explain the fun and competition that TubeWars brings but we're working to get some pictures up yet this morning before coming home so you can see for yourselves.

As we get ready to head home this morning pray for students as they are challenged to make a game plan for steps they need to take as we head home. To truly make the changes that students have said they want to they'll need to come up with next steps so they don't let those commitments slide. Pray for Wisdom and clarity as they seek God for those next steps.

Wednesday Night Pics

2010-12-30T07:18:00.000-05:00

Pictures from Day 2

2010-12-29T17:36:00.001-05:00

Here are some pictures from yesterday and last night. We'll try to get some more up from today soon. Until then, enjoy for now.

Tonight our Celebration time is at 7 pm so please be in prayer for our students, leaders, worship band and speaker as we go into our final evening celebration time together.

Tuesday morning

2010-12-29T13:08:00.002-05:00

Had a good time this morning sharing with one another from our TAWG.

Just had lunch and now it's broomball time...oh yeah!!

Winter Retreat Day 2

2010-12-28T23:47:00.006-05:00

Day 2 is in the books. Students are in bed sleeping after a long day filled with lots of different activities and fun together.

Today we spent the morning spending Time Alone with God and then sharing how God has been challenging us in our youth group time together. Today we looked at Daniel 3 and the story of 3 famous men from Scripture that put their lives on the line to honor and stand out for God. In our youth group time students shared some things that have prevented them from stepping up and standing out for Him. Several themes that we heard students share included things like friendships, gossip, procrastination, fear and several others.

After finishing our youth group time students ventured out to the different free time activities that were happening like horseback riding, tubing and more. We'll be posting some more pictures sometime tomorrow.

During tonight's session students were challenged to look deeper into Daniel 3. We saw 3 men who trusted and had faith in Him and they stepped out and were obedient even when they weren't sure if the outcome would bring them success or harm. We saw that because they had such faith in God and were willing to step out in obedience that others turned to believing in God because of their example. Students were challenged to ask the question "Where has God called me to step out in obdience to stand out for Him? and..."Am I willing to trust God event when I don't know what the outcome will be?"

God had given Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego a platform for others to see an exa

mple of Faith and Obedience. In response tonight students were challenged to think about the platform God has given them to do the same. Out of this will come some next steps that students will need to begin taking to truly take what they learn at Winter Retreat home to stand out for Him. Continue to pray that God will help bring clarity to students on how and in what ways God wants to use them. Pray also that students would have the faith and courage to be obedient to His call.

Stay tuned for more updates...

Winter Retreat Pics

2010-12-28T14:47:00.004-05:00

Here are some pictures from yesterday and today. Things have been going great and we had a great celebration time last night together. Currently students are out tubing, playing games, horseback riding and playing in the gym.

We'll update you more later...please continue to pray for our times together especially our Celebration time later tonight at 7 pm.

Winter Retreat Session 1

2010-12-27T20:53:00.002-05:00

Tonight the students are being challenged to answer the question, "Do you know YOUR God-given identity?"

Tonight we looked at the character of Daniel from Scripture and some of the key things that he lived by as he pursued a life that was pleasing to God and not the world.

They didn't conform to the culture of this world...

They believed God was who He said He was...

They knew their God-given identity...

Pray for our students as we dive in deeper and they are challenged to take their next steps in their relationship with Christ over the next four days together. That they would take steps that are pleasing to God and not the world/culture.

Christmas Concert

2010-12-07T20:17:00.001-05:00

I have the opportunity to watch some of our Jr. Highers perform at the Christmas concert tonight. Pretty proud of them...they're doing great.

Dating Tips with Cooper

2010-12-07T10:35:00.000-05:00

Although we just finished a relationship series in our Jr. High ministry you gotta love these tips given by Cooper, a Jr. Higher. Great insight...lol!

Cooper Singing Beiber

2010-12-04T22:15:00.002-05:00

Although I don't really want to encourage the craze of Justin Beiber I had to share with others our breakfast morning singing time with Cooper as he did his rendition of a Beiber song.

Moved Me Mondays

2010-11-15T16:54:00.003-05:00

I shared a few weeks ago that I had the opportunity to go with my buddy and ministry partner, Derry Prenkert, to the "Story of Your Life" Tour which featured Johnny Diaz, Josh Wilson and Matthew West. I knew Josh Wilson really well but wasn't really up with much Matthew West or Johnny Diaz...or at least I thought. It was an amazing concert but one of the songs that really moved me was the one above..."My Own Little World". As I listened to it on the radio and finally heard the story behind the song I was really challenged by the words in it.

It really made me think of how blessed I am and what God has given me...but it can't stop there. It challenged me to think about what other things I could be doing to reach out or help others. How can I allow them to see Christ in me? How can I be His hands and feet to others?

It was an amazing thing yesterday for me to sit in a room with over sixty 5-12 grade students as we sat and dreamed how we can do something bigger than ourselves this year. As we talked about Teens we see everyday who are in crises and those both here in the US and abroad that are trafficked each day we decided that doing nothing was not an option. We're beginning to wrestle with how we can move outside the bubble of our own little world and truly allow God to use us when it comes to Teens and Trafficking (more on this later).

I pray that the words of this song will challenge you to think beyond your own little world to what God may truly be calling you to...to step out on faith and trust Him to get you through...ultimately changing you and making you more like Him. Allow Him to move you today...

Worship - Hillsong United

2010-11-11T20:38:00.005-05:00

This song has really been resonating with me lately. Not sure if it's the fact that they added some Rich Mullins to it or what but Hillsong United usually pumps out some pretty amazing worship.

If you're a worship leader or just someone who enjoys worshipping I hope this song speaks to you.

What are some of your all time favorite worship songs? I'd love to hear. Share in the comment portion.

Moved Me Mondays

2010-11-08T09:15:00.003-05:00

Being in Jr. High ministry for the last 5 years has been pretty unique. For the first year or two I was learning what working with Jr. Highers was really all about but these last few years has really been full of lots of fun and enjoyment.

One reason I really enjoy Jr. High ministry is that I really believe it is the cutting edge ministry. I've been saying this for a while now but because of the exposure that today's teens have to internet and some of the things on TV and in media here's how I tend to see things:

Today's Preteens = Yesterday's Jr. Highers
Today's Jr. Highers = Yesterday's Sr. Highers
Today's Sr. Highers = Yesterday's Young Adult/College Ministry

It seems to me that many of our Jr. Highers are facing some pretty intense and adult issues that thankfully I didn't experience to the intensity that they do today. Don't get me wrong, I was still exposed to things beyond my years when I was younger but I think that the intensity level has significantly gone up.

So what is it that has moved me recently....a few weeks back I had a conversation with a Jr. High student through texting. This Jr. Higher has really been struggling that God wanted them to do more...to stand out and be a leader. We've had a few conversations before this and each time I'd talk with them you could tell that God was really moving within them. They were wrestling with the idea that doing nothing was not an option...that they could no longer just sit back...they needed to make a difference in their school. They told me about how they invited a friend to our Hayride Outreach and encountered some resistance. Although they were scared and didn't have answers they tried their best to answer what they could and throughout the invitation...they looked fear in the eye and made the decision that their friend was more important then their fear.

Their tenacity and commitment not to quit or give up moved me. I wish when I was their age that I was willing to go that far for Christ. I guess that's why I love Jr. Highers and working with them. I believe it is my responsibility during this season of my life to help them see that they aren't just Jr. Highers...they are world changers. I hope this moves you to push through your fear to do something amazing for Him...after all "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me".

Moved Me Mondays

2010-11-01T19:59:00.001-04:00

My good friend and partner in youth ministry, Derry Prenkert, with his inside connections (aka Corey Mann) scored some VIP tickets to the "Story of Your Life" Tour with Johnny Diaz, Josh Wilson and Matthew West. I'm not gonna lie, sometimes it's night so to have connections. We got to have a special meet and greet with Matthew West. The concert was totally amazing. The first half of the night featured music by all three musicians but the last half of the night was all stories behind the music of Matthew's new album which is pretty phenomenal.

I'll share more thoughts on this concert in the next few days and weeks but one cool thing was that Derry and I got to connect with a great friend and amazing artist/musician that we've had opportunity to do ministry with, Josh Wilson. His new song "I Refuse" is really messing me up lately. It's kind of a theme of some of the things that have been going on within our students and student ministry over the last few months and years. Doing nothing is not an option. Rather than tell you about the song check out the links below to hear the song and the story behind the song.

Check out the audio of "I Refuse" on Josh's myspace here.

I can't wait until Josh's new CD comes out. If it's anything like this song it's gonna be a pretty amazing album...just saying.

Boys Will Be Boys

2010-10-26T16:48:00.003-04:00

This past weekend we had our Jr. High Guys Overnighter...all I have to say is "Boys Will Be Boys"

We had fun...we spent some time talking about being Godly men and lifting each other up and ... well, what's an overnighter without using some duct tape? It was tons of fun.

Oh yeah...and we played Dodgeball at the Eby's barn...

"Moved Me" Mondays

2010-10-25T17:04:00.005-04:00

A Life that Moved Me

I originally had planned to post something entirely different for this post but that will have to wait until next week. I received an email today about the passing of a friend of mine. Some might think it was strange for me to call him my friend as there was over a 50 year age difference but I've learned that friendship is not determined by age or many other differences that we can come up with. Today I learned of the passing of my friend Rev. Melvin "Mel" Coil.

I met Mel when I was a youth pastor at Gospel Center Missionary Church. Mel was a lot older than me and an elder within the church. To tell you the truth...I was a little scared of Mel. One day that all changed. Mel came and asked if I'd help him move a person who was in an assisted living facility to another one...a gentleman that he was looking after and caring for which Mel did for several others. I told him sure, I'd love to help. After we moved this gentleman Mel took me out to a trucker stop for lunch...one of the best meals I've ever had but we spent time getting to know one another. This is where a great friendship started.

After this Mel would call me up from time to time asking if I could help him create some powerpoint presentations for him since he wasn't that tech savvy so that he could go to churches and share about his trip to Haiti and how they could get involved in helping those in need in Haiti. It didn't take me much time but Mel would always insist on paying me a little for the work I did even though I told him I was just helping out a friend...I think because he was a pastor himself he wanted to help a youth pastor out.

Those are just a few of my favorite memories of Mel. Even in his elder years Mel had a servant's heart and a passion to help those in other countries hear the Gospel. After I left Gospel Center he tracked my number down to call me and let me know how much he missed me but was glad that I was at a new ministry doing well. I had the priviledge of seeing Mel one more time last year at Bethel College for General Conference. It had been several years but we took a few minutes to catch up like old friends.

I will deeply miss my friend Mel but am glad he's with the Savior he loved and served. I will always be grateful for the times and conversations we shared and the lessons I learned from a follower of Christ who was almost 3 times my age. I mourn the loss of my friend but am thankful that God allowed my path to cross with his. Mel's love for Christ moved me and I hope one day others may say the same of me. That would be an amazing legacy to leave.

Good bye Mel...thanks for your friendship...I love and miss you old friend!

Who are some people who have moved you with their life and how? Share your story to honor them by posting a comment.

Jr Hi Overnighter Fun

2010-10-23T00:20:00.002-04:00

Not your typical use for duct tape but it gets the job done.

I Love Jr. Highers

2010-10-22T10:13:00.002-04:00

I love Jr. Highers. On Fridays I meet with a few Jr. High guys and we talk life. Sometimes in the midst of an early morning and the pop they intake you never know what's gonna come out of their mouth or what's gonna happen. Well here's an example...

Everything

2010-10-22T09:27:00.002-04:00

I've had several people ask about the skit that our Sr. High Impact Team performed at our hayride outreach this past Wed. night. They did a fantastic job but more than that, they were portraying exactly what Christ is trying to do each day with us. He desires that relationship with us.

This had and is having a huge impact on our students. Continue to be praying as students wrestle through the reality of this drama and the truth of Christ they heard on Wednesday night.

More pics and updates from our hayride coming soon...

Jr. High Hayride...Here We Come!!!

2010-10-20T17:22:00.002-04:00

In less than an hour we'll have a large group of Jr. Highers that we'll be cramming into a barn for an awesome time of fun but also to hear about the truth of Christ. Praying big things happen tonight in the hearts and lives of our Jr. Highers.

Moved Me Mondays!

2010-10-18T11:17:00.004-04:00

Here's a new theme for Mondays as I blog. For the next several weeks I'm going to post things that have been meaningful and moved me over the previous week. Today is a worship song that just continues to seem to resonate with in my heart and being...it's been moving in me that last week or so and I just find myself singing in alot. Maybe it will speak to use as well.

Hillsong United - Savior King

Preteen Camp

2010-08-04T20:23:00.002-04:00

Dustin Eby is now sharing with the Preteens about how we can't really BE DIFFERENT if we don't have the difference in our life...being Jesus.

Here's a picture of our Preteens singing loud in a Different way for Christ. So cool watching them...just saying.

Guess Who's 3!!!

2010-07-14T16:50:00.006-04:00

It's so hard for me to believe that this girl above is now this girl below on the right.

What a blessed man I am to have such an amazing family. The day Jordyn born my life was ruined...in a good way! I now understand in a more real and authentic way what it is like for God to call us His children. He hurts for us...wants the best for us...loves us no matter what kind of day we have or how much we kick and scream. I pray that I can be the dad that Christ wants me to be and teach my girls about a Father who is greater than I.

Today Jordyn turns 3 going on 13. God give me the strength to endure the teenage years I pray...I love you my precious Jordyn.

Coolest Moment of the Night

2010-07-12T22:57:00.002-04:00

My coolest moment of the night by far was watching a new freshman student being prayed over by an upperclassman and the freshman guy was broken and in tears. Good stuff!! These are some of my favorite moments in youth ministry.

The Great Boat Race at Sr. Hi Camp

2010-07-12T18:24:00.002-04:00

Senior High Camp

2010-07-12T14:48:00.002-04:00

This is the first summer in my 5 summers at NMC that I've been able to attend Sr. High Camp. Right now I'm watching students wrestle with how they are going to take this experience home and truly LIVE DIFFERENT. Pretty cool stuff.

Estimated Arrival Time

2010-07-08T16:22:00.002-04:00

As long a weather doesn't become an issue we are planning to arrive at NMC between 6:15-6:30 pm at ENTRANCE D under the Grand Hall overhang.

On our way home

2010-07-08T13:28:00.002-04:00

We are on the road home. We'll be stopping for lunch together than making our way back to NMC.

Taking It Home

2010-07-08T10:25:00.002-04:00

Students are now walking through a take it home experience so they can come up with next steps they need to take as they go home. Be in prayer for this. This moment now is key as they truly go home to LIVE DIFFERENT.

Pray that students will challenge themselves to take steps that move them beyond their comfort zone and that they will be committed to make those things happen.

Kalahari Fun & Wednesday Pics

2010-07-07T21:23:00.002-04:00

For individual pics click here.

Jr High Worship

2010-07-07T21:15:00.002-04:00

This is why I love watching Jr Highers worship...they get so into it jumping and celebrating with their King you can't get a still shot picture.

I AM FREE...

Final Evening Session

2010-07-07T20:56:00.002-04:00

Tonight is a challenge for our students to LIVE DIFFERENT. This involves counting the cost of what it truly means to be a Christ Follower. If we don't understand this we will never truly live DIFFERENT the way Christ calls us to.

Tonight has the potential of starting a revolution in our Jr Highers. Pray God would speak clearly to them.

God show up and show off tonight.

And some more waves

2010-07-07T15:27:00.002-04:00

Things are a little wavier than normal...

2010-07-07T15:26:00.002-04:00

Here's a bunch of students having fun in the wave pool. They are having a blast!!!!

Kalahari

2010-07-07T13:05:00.001-04:00

Had a great morning session of sharing and TAWG.

We are now at Kalahari ready to have an awesome time together!!!

Little Update

2010-07-06T21:39:00.000-04:00

Sorry we haven't been able to post much at this point. The internet signal is very weak.

We've been having a blast here at Summer Camp. It's been an incredibly "different" couple of days so far. From Day One's Team flag decorating, belly flop contests, the Big Booty game and Session #1, to today's TAWG Experience, Movie in a Minute reenactments, Kool-Aid dye wars and a few hours in the lake, these kids are definitely loving life! And the leaders are having an awesome time too!

Just in case that run-on sentence was a little too confusing for you, here are just a few pictures to show you how it's been since we've arrived...

Day 2 Pics:

For individual pics click here.

TAWG Experience Pics:

For individual pics click here.

Day 1 Pics:

For individual pics click here.

Pray for Session 2

2010-07-06T20:55:00.002-04:00

As we enter into night to be praying for students as Terry talks about some roadblocks that keep us from being different.

We've already heard one student who shared that last night they entered into a relationship with Christ.

God wants to continue moving...keep praying.

DYE WARS

2010-07-06T15:34:00.002-04:00

Just played an amazing group game called DYE WARS! So amazingly fun and we created some really cool tie dye shirts. You'll have to wait to see the final products when we return.

More Team Disney

2010-07-06T14:41:00.002-04:00

Aladdin...one of my all time favs. I think I like this version better.

I can show you the world....

Team Activities

2010-07-06T14:35:00.002-04:00

Jr Hi students arebnow re-enacting scenes of some of Disney's greatest movies. These guys are super creative.

DIFFERENT!!

2010-07-06T11:10:00.002-04:00

Jr highers are the coolest group of students around...just sayin! So awesome watching them during this TAWG Experience connecting with God.

If you could only hear what is going on in this picture.

TAWG Experience

2010-07-06T09:36:00.002-04:00

Students are now walking through a TAWG Experience this morning about people who were different in Scripture.

Pray that students would see that with Christ they must live different just as these people were.

Pray God would speak to each student specifically.

Session 1

2010-07-05T21:21:00.002-04:00

Terry is sharing about what it means to truly be different. Sharing examples of those who stepped out in Scripture to be different. Speak Lord, we need you.

Summer Fun

2010-06-30T19:14:00.002-04:00

Lots summer fun that will "sack" you out! Get it...cuz they are using sacks so it's funny.

CDYC Saturday Morning Session

2010-06-26T11:28:00.002-04:00

Derry talking with students at CDYC about how they can change their world today. Praying God does great things in them!

Summer Street Festival

2010-06-13T12:42:00.001-04:00

Encouraging and supporting the Deliverance Singers after church this morning as they try to share the truth of God's love through song in the midst of the Summer Street Festival outside of Philadelphia Church. Great stuff!

ChicaGO!!!!!

2010-06-12T08:26:00.000-04:00

2010 ChicaGO Team
June 12- 18, 2010

STUDENTS:
Brennan Angle, Chelsea Anglin, Savannah Bley, Caitlin Bonifacius,
Kaylyn Bussard, Zack Bussard, Melissa Coleman, Kayla Courtney, Spencer Culp, Cassie Dyksen, Kailee Feldman, Abby Fervida, Jimmy Ford, Rachelle Graber, Ben Hoover, Talia Jacobs, Sabrina Kaufman, Ben Klaybor, Tommy Klem, Alyssa Korsmo, Justin Krakowski, Zach Lamason, Jayson Linhart, Lauren Linhart, Trevor Mast, Sean Nunemaker, Madison Ortiz, Allison Page, Maddie Richmond, Lindsey Roe, Katie Schaffer, Jamison Schrock, Maddie Schwartz, Kami Stutzman, Taylor Stutzman, Roj Warstler, Paige Weldy, Emily Wenger, Thayne White, Cameron Williams, Dustin Yoder, Jana Yoder, Lindsay Ziegler

LEADERS:
Chris Lehane, Derry Prenkert, Tonya Angle, Peggy Bearss, Tiffany Christensen, Dustin Eby, Kieffer McCarron, Kyle Neeley, Jessica Noelle, Danae Schaffer, Alyssa Walter

Ways to Pray:

* Healthy Christ-focused relationships among the team
* Team unity and teachability
* Energy for the team for long days of ministry
* Eyes to see people with compassion of Christ
* Our team will be challenged and stretched
* Wisdom and courage to initiate conversations
* Divine appointments
* Confidence to bring it home
* Long-term impact that lasts beyond this trip
* Lasting lessons and action steps as students return home

What We're Doing:

* Partnering with Adventures in Missions and the local church
* Various Outreaches: prayers walking, working with kids in need, homeless care ministries,
El Train Ministry and more.
* Building relationship and planting seeds of Christ's love

Monday Ministry Mania

2010-04-19T22:22:00.002-04:00

Today truly seemed like a blur. Started out the day talking with some of my teammates about our upcoming Kids In Need Celebration coming up on May 19. I'm not gonna lie, it's gonna be a pretty sweet night!!! A night to celebrate all that God has done through our Kids In Need Initiative. Our students have done a great job of owning this but more importantly they've sacrificed a lot to bring Him glory.

After that I spent some time prepping and doing some more planning for our ChicaGO Trip, had lunch with our Student Ministry staff then met with our Jr. High intern extraordinaire, Matt Schoettle. He's in the box this Wednesday night. Should be some pretty good stuff. We're talking about leaving our excuses by the waste side so we can live for Christ with all we are. No excuses. This week, getting rid of the myth that "You're Too Young" to do anything big or amazing for God. Have to admit, I'm sure glad people like David and Mary didn't give in to that lie.

After that, did some more work on our ChicaGO trip, made a few ministry calls, had a small "project" to do then went to grab my girls. Hung out with them til mom came home and had a pretty sweet steak dinner. Afterwards I tried to line up some more Jr. Highers to help with our Student Ministries Awards Night this Friday night to honor some of the most awesome people I get to work with, our volunteers. I'm pumped for how this is gonna turn out.

It's been a busy but productive day. I'm pretty spent and there's more to do.

Pray for my bud, Derry, as he's looking to make his trip back from Kenya tomorrow evening after being halted by the volcano. What a crazy story.

Good night for now.

Effect

2010-04-18T23:08:00.000-04:00

Tonight was a pretty sweet night in the Effect. How could it not when you start the night with a game of gladiator dodgeball in the Fieldhouse. Put some tables up on their sides, split the teams up, put some dodgeballs on the line and . . . DODGEBALL.

I have to admit, I was doing pretty good and knocking out some of the big hitters until I had a wardrobe malfunction. One final wind up and toss when I felt a breeze coming from my right back pocket. It had grown in size. It's times like that I'm so thankful for duct tape.

Niel Diener rocked the mic as he shared about not giving in to the traps of temptation that Satan likes to throw at us. He did an amazing job of incorporating the attributes of dodgeball etiquette and game players while interweaving how our Christian walk sometimes looks like that. I love it when a good game can add to spiritual insight.

We ended the night with:

Center w/ Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Give Us Clean Hands
Marvelous Light
I Am Free w/ Streets Have No Name

Powerful time in worship where we asked God to focus us on Him and not our temptations and ended celebrating the freedom we have in Christ. My prayer is that we can live in the promises and leave the problematic pressures of temptation behind. It's time to live FREE just like He created us to be.

ChicaGO

2010-04-18T13:01:00.000-04:00

Today was the start of our ChicaGO team training times. I have to say that I'm pretty stoked for this trip and for this team. Lots of awesome potential on the team. Praying God does a lot on this trip to mess up all of our thinking and truly make us into what he wants us to be...World Changers and Influencers.

As we kick in to gear here are some things you can be praying for . . .

* the 45 students who said it's my turn to GO
* the 9 leaders who said I want invest my life in others over this experience
* that we'll be committed to the process so we can make the most out of this experience
* that we'll be committed to our teammates
* that we'll be committed to allowing God to do all He wants in us
* that we won't let our fear or insecurities rob us of God's best

So much in store and so much to learn.

God, do your best...help us to hold on for the ride!

Simply Youth Ministry Conference

2010-02-27T14:37:00.001-05:00

Here at the Simply Youth Ministry Conference in Chicago. Having a blast with ministry friends, networking with new ministry friends and learning a ton. This is one conference every youth worker needs to get a chance to go to. More details later...

Good Times

2010-02-16T18:23:00.000-05:00

I love being able to come and watch our middle schoolers in action. Here's a taste.

2 Things I'm looking forward to tonight!

2010-02-11T12:40:00.000-05:00

Thursday is my day off. I enjoy these because after a busy Wednesday night of ministry it is good to have a down day. This Thursday is a little different because I'm excited about two things:
1. I get to hang out with my two little princesses. Meet Cinderlla Jordyn and Tinkerbell Kara. I always look forward to a day off with them but I have a feeling today will be more interesting than others.
2. Survivor Heroes VS. Villains.

They did this several years ago and called it Survivor All Stars. Before that I really hadn't watched much of the show. I just caught the last few episodes of the prior season. All Stars got me hooked and now I'm excited to see some of my favorite cast members return. Should be interesting.

Back to my day off...See you all later.

Why Jr. High/Youth Ministry?

2010-02-10T09:32:00.002-05:00

Here's a statistic that I've heard many times in the last few years. This is what spurs so many of us on in doing youth ministry. We hope to be among the people that can continue to help students make that life changing decision to start their relationship with Christ.

Thanks to research by Kara Powell we now have a little more hard evidence than we have in the past. Below are her findings:

You’ve perhaps heard the infamous statistic that 80-85% of people who become Christians do so before age 14. We youth workers especially love quoting that data when we’re asking for a larger ministry budget.

There hasn’t appeared to be lots of hard data to back up that stat. But maybe that’s changed.
Sociologist Dr. Christian Smith and his team at the National Study of Youth and Religion (NSYR) have studied teenagers of all religious persuasions (Protestant, Roman Catholic, Jewish, Mormon, Religiously Indifferent, etc.). He reports in his new book, Souls in Transition: The Religious and Spiritual Lives of Emerging Adults, that 85% of those 18-23 who have ever made a commitment to God did so before age 14.

Remember, the study includes teenagers and young adults of all religious persuasions, and it’s not entirely clear from the book what students mean what they say they have “made a commitment to God”.

But nonetheless, this is the best data I’ve seen in a while that supports that 85% statistic.

Phone Call

2010-02-09T13:27:00.003-05:00

As I got out of a meeting and got back into my office I saw that I had a message on my voicemail at church. Being a youth pastor for about 11 years now, getting a phone call from a parent can go a few different ways:

Sit. #1 - I'm calling about that game you did on Wed. night. My son's tongue still has turned back to it's natural color yet. What are you gonna do about that?

Living in Jr. High world now there have been a few occasions where we've created some interesting games that have caused some "temporary" side effects. Nothing that won't return to normal in a few days. Kinda like the old doctor used to say, "Take 2 of these and call me in the morning". You know, doing some crazy games that create a "Wow Factor" for some laughs and create energy but we never shoot for games that will harm or embarrass a student. I joke a little with this situational call but they have been known to happen.

Sit. #2 -My son/daughter is really having a tough time . . . school, connecting at church, obeying me, etc.

I value these calls because it makes me realize a few things:

1. Parents aren't afraid to ask someone for help with their student because they love their student that much.
2. I'm humbled that a parent would see me as someone who can help with the situation. I know that I don't know all the answers and sometimes I think I might cause more harm to the situation that good but knowing that a parent believes I can help out fuels me to work harder in seeing how I can help them and their student.
3. The value in partnering with parents is of high priority in ministry. We need parents on the same page and side as us. We only have their students a few hours a week. They are with them 7 days a week 24 hours a day.
4. It helps me remember that ministry is about relationships.

Sit. #3 - I just wanted to thank you for hanging out with, talking with, calling, doing lunch with, encouraging, sending the note to, challenging, etc.

Although these phone calls are few and far between, when you get one it makes a huge difference and you remember them. I've learned that in ministry a lot of the thank yous and encouraging conversations happen sometimes years later after students have come and gone in your ministry. That's why when you get a phone call like this you feel on top of the world and it refocuses you that what you're doing, whether volunteer, part-time or full-time...IT'S WORTH IT! You are making a difference. You are changing lives. You are helping people take a step closer in their walk with Christ.

When I realized this several years ago I called my youth leaders, sent emails, made phone calls, sent texts and more to tell them how much they've made an impact on me. Every chance I can now I try to do that to them along with the amazing people I work with every day and the team I get to rub ministry shoulders with in Jr. High.

Today I'm thankful that the call I received out of the blue was a situation #3 phone call. IT'S WORTH IT! And I'm thankful for all the things that phone call made me think about: The value of relationships, parents, encouragement and more.

Thanks for the call. Now it's time for me and you to Pay it Forward. Are you ready? Bring it! Let's go!!

Death

2010-02-09T13:08:00.003-05:00

I found this to be an interesting fact. According to research done and shown on the Today Show yesterday, colleges are starting to offer some classes to reach out and be more relevant with their students. For instance, I can't remember the college but one offers a class called "Yankee Stadium" and it's pretty well attended.

However, one class that I thought was pretty interesting being offered at Yale University was "Death". In the report by the Today Show, it was stated that this is the 3rd highest attended and registered for class. The same teacher also offers the class "Life".

I don't think it's any coincidence that there are many students curious to dive into and research life and death. After all, this is something that we all must come to grips with. We are not eternal beings. Our bodies will at some point break down and our life here on earth will extinguish. Although several people have "theories" on what happens after you take your final breath none of them have any certainty behind them. Nothing tangible.

We've been talking in our Jr. High ministry over the last few weeks about some Black & White issues in Scripture: SIN, GRACE and WORKS.

Here were some of the true realities:

SIN is SIN. No sin is greater than another and all sin causes separation from God and ultimately equals death.

GRACE is what has been granted to us by GOD through the sacrifice of His Son, Jesus. Because of His grace we have a way to restore our relationship with God and to be brought back into His presence from now and in eternity.

WORKS is not what gets us into heaven but our WORKS should be a result of our full understanding of His GRACE. We can't earn eternity but we can receive it in Him.

If we truly understand the eternal life we can have in Christ after we die then we should Live as people who want our LIFE TO COUNT here on earth.

Why are so many people registering for and attending this class at Yale University? My observation is that there are still so many people who don't understand the above truths of God. They are searching and trying to intellectually find an answer. Unfortunately, many times it is the intellect of man that gets in the way of the love of the divine.

Will you be a part of the answer for those who are searching? What are you doing to make your LIFE COUNT?

More Hoops Pics

2010-02-06T10:20:00.001-05:00

Hoops of Hope in full effect

2010-02-06T10:17:00.001-05:00

Tons of students shooting, cheering an volunteering to help kids in need. What a great sight!!

Wrestling?

2010-02-02T17:36:00.001-05:00

I'm told this improves their performance when they wrestle their opponents. You can be the judge...

Final Session at Passion 2010

2010-01-05T11:29:00.001-05:00

Final day, final session then home to the family. Can't wait. Lots to wrestle through but I'm looking forward to it.

In our hearts, Lord
In the nations
Awakening...

Passion 2010

2010-01-03T11:40:00.001-05:00

Over 20,000 in attendance. Just a small glimpse of what worshipping in heaven will be like. Simply amazing!

ETA to NMC

2009-12-30T16:58:00.001-05:00

Our estimated time of arrival back to NMC looks like it will be between 6:15-6:30.

Celebrating at the Top of Our Lungs

2009-12-30T12:52:00.001-05:00

Final worship time together. I love Jr. Hi worship. They don't care about looking good or sounding pretty in front of others. It's about celebrating what He has done at the top our lungs.

We are the redeemed, we are the ones who are free and we belong to Jesus!

God is good.

Final Group Time

2009-12-30T11:26:00.001-05:00

This is where the rubber meets the road. Praying that students get a grasp on this. It is there next steps that they feel God speaking to them about taking that will make this more than just an event in their life.

Final Day-Final Breakfast

2009-12-30T08:41:00.000-05:00

We are eating our final breakfast before our final time alone with God and our final session & share time together.

Pray that students will stay engaged as we talk through next steps in making a lasting impact in their own lives and in others.

Session 3 - Love Others

2009-12-30T00:41:00.001-05:00

Summed up in one word - POWERFUL!

Powerful time of worship.
Powerful message.
Powerful and life-changing move of the Spirit.

WOW!

More pics

2009-12-29T16:47:00.000-05:00

More Pics

2009-12-29T16:46:00.000-05:00

Pics

2009-12-29T16:45:00.001-05:00

Broomball...A NEW Favorite

2009-12-29T16:45:00.000-05:00

Had a great time alone with God and youth group time this morning. It's been great to hear the authentic and genuine hearts of our students as they have been sharing today.

Parents, continue to be praying for all of us as our time comes to a close. I'd encourage each of you to set some time aside when your student gets home to be able to ask them about what God has spoken to about at this retreat.

This afternoon we had a blast together playing a new sport today...BROOMBALL. Kinda like hockey but way more fun and less knocked out teeth. We had a grueling fight on our hands for the final game of our double elimination tournament between some 8th grade guys and 7th grade girls teams. Fortunately/unfortunately the guys were victorious. Here are a few pictures.

Session 2 - Love Yourself

2009-12-29T12:00:00.000-05:00

Sorry for the delay on updates. Had a few major technical complications but we are back up and running.

Tonight (Monday) Pastor Jason shared about the idea that if we want to love God with all we are we have to first love ourself. We looked in Scripture at who God created us to be. He shared several lies that Satan likes to throw at us to believe we aren't good enough.

Many students responded by freeing themselves of the lies they believed about themselves. Very powerful night. God's up to something awesome in our Jr. Highers.

Little Cabin in the woods

2009-12-28T11:22:00.001-05:00

Just finished with TAWG. Now we are off to share in our first youth group time...Can't wait to hear what God is stirring in our students.

First Session - 3 Sides of Loving God

2009-12-27T21:50:00.001-05:00

We arrived safely a little after 3 pm, played some intense games of dodgeball, ate dinner and now we are in the middle of our first session together. Tonight we are learning about the sides to loving God's completely, with everything we are.

Pray for God's hand on our sessions, His move in the hearts' of our students and the transformation that can happen in our world when they truly love God's with all they are and allow themselves to be fully loved by Him.

More to come . . . Stay tuned.

And we're off. . .

2009-12-27T09:49:00.001-05:00

What do you get when you have over 4 bus loads of Jr hi and Sr hi students?

The start to an AMAZING 2009 WINTER RETREAT!!!

We are on the road and set for Springhill Camp. Check in with us for more details about our adventure.

New Series

2009-12-02T23:59:00.002-05:00

Tonight we started a new series in Jr. High called MIRROR IMAGE. Over the next few weeks we'll be taking a look at what it means to truly reflect the image of Christ in our everyday lives.

Our Jr. High intern, Matt Schoettle, shared with our Jr. Highers last night. Matt talked about the truth that we are all made in God's image. Each day we are bombarded with lies from the enemy that we aren't good enough, that we don't look pretty enough, that we are popular enough and of course there are more. I'm sure you could insert your own "not good enough" statement in as well. The point is, when we understand that we are created in God's image and we don't worry about having to look like the standards the world sets, there is freedom in how we live.

It's in those times that we must claim the promises of God that He's given us in His word. What are some of your favorite promises of God that you find yourself repeating to yourself in those times that you just don't feel good enough? Share them in the comment section.

Tuesday Basketball - GAME ON

2009-12-01T22:32:00.001-05:00

Had a great time tonight watching the 7th and 8th grade boys B teams play tonight against John Young. I sat in the student section tonight and think I may have lost some hearing tonight as the students were pumped and shouting for their school. It was hard to catch on to their different cheers although they were rather catchy. However, all that cheering paid off as both teams won.

7th Grade Boys B-Team - NWMS - 30 John Young - 27
8th Grade Boys B-Team - NWMS - 43 John Young - 14

Middle School Monday: Game On

2009-11-30T22:45:00.001-05:00

If your in youth ministry or any setting where your working with students, it's always good to have some games in your back pocket. Whether it's for your main programming, retreats, overnighters or at a school function games have the power to break down walls with students. Whether it's breaking down gender walls, walls created by going to different schools or have a wide spectrum of students with different personalities, games bring an element of fun, laughter and leveling the playing field for the worst or best athletic student.

As I look to the array of games that I've tried in youth ministry I wish that I could say every game was a success. There will always be those times when even the best game doesn't seem to connect. Here are some tips that I've learned from experience and from youth ministry friends and specialists like Kurt Johnston that I'd pass along.

1. Keep It Simple - Don't over complicate the game. Keep your instructions clear, concise and quick. If it takes to long to explain the game before it starts you run the risk of already losing before you start both in momentum and with your audience. Sometimes it is a worthwhile exercise to have other students or leaders that you've talked to beforehand to be a visual example as your explaining the game.

2. Vary Them Up - Mix up the types of games that you do. We'll try to mix up games styles from ones where everyone participates (at least for a time), group games, physical games, mental games and on-stage games that just call for a few people. The big thing with this is to keep the game moving quickly so that you don't lose momentum for any students who aren't playing or have been knocked out or eliminated. If students aren't participating their interest in the game will decline quickly.

3. Be Excited - If you aren't excited about the game your audience won't be either. Always go into a game with the mindset that it is the greatest thing since sliced bread. You need to be the salesperson for why this is the greatest game your students will ever play.

4. Tweak - Don't be afraid to take old games and re-tweak them a little bit. A few weeks back for our series we played 'Reverse Paper, Rock, Scissors'. Just a small twist to a common game with a visual slide to remind students of what would beat what with reversing the game and it was neat to watch the expressions of students who thought they won but then realized they lost. It added a great fun factor. Our finalist ended up being a guy VS. girl faceoff. The guy totally got blown away and of course we took advantage of it.

5. Always leave them wanting more - Always end your game on a high point. You've got to be aware of when to cut off a game because your audience is having a great time as opposed overdoing a great thing. Even a great game can become a bore the more and more you do it, whether it's from week to week or just taking too much time one night to play it. Be sure to end the game in time for students to groan a little bit because they want to play it longer. In the long run this will help you have a good game in your pocket that kids already know how to play and that they love at a time that you need to infuse a little excitement and energy.

6. The 'WOW' Factor - Whether it's a big event, an outreach, overnighter or just a regular night in your ministry, having a game from time to time that creates the "Wow Mom" factor is a great thing. Anytime you can get students to walk away talking about game saying "I can't believe they did that" you create a buzz amongst your students and a talking point for them with friends. Obviously you need to make sure that the game is appropriate, doesn't put a student in danger and won't cause illness. It doesn't have to be a fear factor type game where they have to eat insects to be fun and something that is completely unheard of so be creative. We did a game at our kickoff this year called "Ice cubes of Awesomeness" where we took everyday items that are in your fridge, froze the contents and asked blindfolded contestants to guess what it was. It ranged from coffee to milk to mustard and more.

2009-11-29T00:34:00.000-05:00

Great pictures from the weekend. We traveled up to Michigan this weekend to visit my family for Thanksgiving. This is what happens when Jordyn and her cousin, Shannon, get together. Dress up anyone?

Middle School Monday

2009-11-23T23:39:00.000-05:00

What were you like in Middle School? Can you remember that far back? I know for some of us it wasn't that long ago.

That's one of the biggest questions I could recommend for those of us working in Middle School to take some time reflecting on. If we can't think back and remember what Middle School was like for us it will be very hard for us to reach the generation today.

For me, I was in 7th and 8th grade in 1992-1993.
I went to a Catholic School.
I was a straight A student.
Computers were just starting to be more common in homes and so was the internet.
We had a switch of president from George Bush Sr. to Bill Clinton.
There was a change from VHS to DVD, tapes to CDs
We had shows like Growing Pains, Full House, Family Matters - Oh how I miss those
I was started to become more interested in the opposite sex
I showered more - :)
Ghost was a hit movie in the box office
The Bulls were the dominate NBA team
Some top artists at the time were: Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, UB40, Gin Blossoms, Boyz II Men

What about you? Think back to you middle school time. What was hot? What were you struggling with? What emotions were you wrestling through? What was your faith like? What were your thoughts about God?

If you want to stay up on Middle School students try these things:

Watch MTV, MTV and other Music Award Shows, MTV and other Movie Award Shows, Teen Choice Awards - This will give you perspective on what your students are watching and listening to. I know, some people in church may not agree with this but I promise you it's an eye opener.

Go to the mall and observe the students there

Visit your students for lunch at their school

Ask your students about some of their favorite bands/artists, shows, magazines, movies

Get online and surf to do research

The thing I've learned in youth ministry is that the culture is always changing and we need to be watching, listening and doing our homework if we want to be effective these days.

Hope this is helpful to those of you reading. Until next time . . .

Sunday Fly By

2009-11-22T23:36:00.003-05:00

Today was another long but good day.

Started out at church meeting with a team of Jr. High students to talk through our ministry on Wednesday nights. We had our ADD moments but I think the conversation was good. Pumped about what these students are capable of doing.

Rose and I hung out with some friends and leaders after church today at Hacienda. These trips are starting to become fairly hard with small children. They don't want to sit in one place too long. Although what can you do when you have a craving for Hacienda?? Ya know? Looks like next time we may just have to order carryout and bring it home to socialize and eat at our house.

Finally . . . we just finished the Effect, our young adults service, a few hours ago. Terry Bley, our Life Development Pastor, shared a great word and led some discussion on True Community. I lead worship in the Effect with an amazing team of volunteers just about every week. Tonight this was our Worship set:

Ab - Filled with Your Glory by Starfield
D - I Am Free by Desperation Band
G - No One Like You by David Crowder Band
G - Your Love, Oh Lord by Third Day

We had a lot of fun with the set and I think the Young Adults did as well. We turned the corner a little bit from fun and celebration to reflecting on the simple and true promises of God as we sang the words to "Your Love, Oh Lord"

Lord . . . help us this week to truly "find our strength in the shadow of your wings." Give us your peace and rest during this week and help us to truly reflect on the blessings that you've given to us. You truly are AMAZING!

Student of the Culture

2009-11-21T23:22:00.005-05:00

One thing I've learned in youth ministry is that you have to be a student of the culture. Some times you might even have to do things that you don't want to. For example, tonight after what I hope to be my final mow at our house and helping get the girls ready for dinner I met up with my bud, DP, and we went to see "Twilight: New Moon". We'd have rather gone to see the new movie "The Blindside" but with all the buzz amongst tween and teen girls over "New Moon" we knew this would be a good opportunity for us to be fully informed on what our students are watching and the message that is getting acrossed to them.

Although the acting was sub par for me, it was funny to listen and watch the reaction of the 80-90% of the audience when Jacob took his shirt off and the amazing pick up/romantic lines. At one point it was really quiet in the theater and you heard one girl go "aww" after a line from Jacob. You see very mixed emotions as Bella tries to find balance between her feelings for Jacob and Edward. No wonder we have so many girls that ride the emotional rollercoaster when they are in and out of relationships. I'm sure there will continue to be much talk and discussion with our students who have seen this over the next few weeks.

Currently "New Moon" has topped the box office claiming the record for the biggest one-day gross, The Twilight Saga: New Moon raked in an estimated $72.7 million on approximately 8,500 screens at 4,024 sites. The Dark Knight was the previous title holder with $67.2 million on around 9,300 screens at 4,366 sites.

Read more here.

Long day but a good one

2009-11-20T23:55:00.002-05:00

Had a good but long day today. I went to our Men's Prayer breakfast at church this morning at 6 am. Got there a little late but I'm always refreshed when I go. You just get a sense that God is smiling at you.

Got a lot of work done before people started getting into the office and had lunch with my youth pastor buddy, Anthony. He does middle school ministry too at River Valley Community Church in South Bend. He's a funny guy ... way funnier than me so I always appreciate the times we have to get together and talk Middle School Ministry with one another.

Got home in time to have a quick dinner with the family and make some phone calls to a few people. Next we headed to the Girl's Overnighter. There are definitely some great things that are going to take place and already have. My wife is excited about the girls from her small group being there. I just got home, put the girls to bed and walked the dog. I'm tired but am excited to hear what the response from the girls will be.

These girls are WAY MORE HARDCORE than any girls that went to go see a "New Moon" movie...

Oh yeah ... and Abby Miller beat me in a game of basketball up to 11. Keep in mind she came dressed to play and with attitude and I came dressed in jeans and an attitude that I hope I don't get beat by a girl. Better luck next time I guess.

Exciting, Not So Exciting

2009-11-19T23:35:00.005-05:00

Exciting - Survivor Samoa. This season has been one of the best in my opinions as opposed to the last several seasons. My buddy, Joel, turned me on to this show a while back and I got hooked when I saw Survivor All-Stars. I was beginning to get bored with the show up until this season. Russell is a guy you love to hate but I have to say he's a smart player. Finding 2 of the 3 idols with NO CLUE.

NOT Exciting - Joe Exotic-Magician. Rose called me Thursday saying they had a free magic show with animals at Concord mall where her offices are and wanted to see if I'd bring the girls so I did. As we watched, I thought to myself that this guy is one of the worst magician's I've ever seen. Maybe it's just that I'm used to amazing illusionists like Jared Hall or Danny Ray that we've had in to NMC. This guy just had no material, pizazz or stage presence plus he didn't even use animals in his presentation.

The only redeeming value from that experience was dinner with the family out at Panera. Good meal, great family, PRICELESS.

Basketball time

2009-11-17T18:28:00.001-05:00

Watching the 8th grade guys play against Goshen. So far they are in the lead.

Disappointing loss for the 7th graders by 2 points with a controversial call at the end.

Game on!!

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Middle School Monday

2009-11-16T19:32:00.003-05:00

Middle School Ministry is quite a phenomenon. When I came to Nappanee Missionary Church over 4 1/2 years ago now I was a little uncertain of how Middle School ministry worked after I had been working with 7th-12th graders for 7 years prior to that. Since then God has really opened my eyes to the amazing opportunity that Middle School Ministry holds. Here's some things I've learned over the last few years:

1. Sobering statistics - Although statistics vary a little it is said that 80% of people accept Christ before age 14. This is is proof of the need for Middle School ministry and leaders who will invest in them. As I look back to my first steps with Christ they were when I was 13.

2. Investment is huge - The power of an adult who invests in a Jr. Higher is essential to their growth process. As I look at the leaders I work with currently and the leaders who worked with me when I was in Middle School, the impact an adult leader can make in their spiritual formation is priceless.

3. Moldability - One of the refreshing things with Middle Schoolers is that their middle school time is a huge window for forming their own beliefs about God, friends, worldview and more. Because they are starting to really form their opinions about these things there is a moldability to them that sometimes is harder to see in Sr. Highers.

4. Squirrely - Yes, middle schoolers can be squirrely and eratic at times but the great thing is that as an adult leader you don't have to fit in to a sterotyped role to have impact in them. You can be goofy with them, laugh with them and more than not, your athletic ability or lack their of is actually a powerful weapon.

More to come. . . stay tuned

RELAUNCH, REDESIGN, RE-TWEAKED

2009-11-16T10:11:00.005-05:00

Today begins a NEW and FRESH start to my blogging endeavors. After hating how my old blog looked and not having much time with it I recruited two good friends, Kyle and Megan, to help me with the new look. Although there is still some tweaking to do I'm much happier with how this looks.

Be on the look out for some NEW posts later today about the adventures of last week and some Profound Ponderings. I hope you'll continue following me as I re-enter the blogosphere. I promise not to make long exits as I have in the past unless it's for family or vacation reasons. I'd love input and comments as you follow along.

Bust a Move Baby 2

2009-09-30T14:50:00.003-04:00

Not sure how long this video will stay up but it is a longer version of my previously posted video. Apparently Syntax Records was upset that a baby was dancing to a music video and wanted some more money so they pulled the 50 second clip off of youtube. Enjoy this while you can!!!

Bust a Move Baby 2

2009-09-30T14:50:00.000-04:00

Bust a Move Baby!!

2009-09-30T10:30:00.001-04:00

Here is a funny video that I came across. Hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Maybe it's because I have two girls under the age of two and one, Kara, who has similar dance moves but this had me cracking up. Enjoy!!

Sessions conference

2009-09-26T09:34:00.001-04:00

At the sessions conference today listening to Andrew Patton who I've been able to build some relationship with when we've brought in Rush of Fools.

Great info and insight given. Really enjoying the first session.

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Football Time

2009-09-08T18:28:00.001-04:00

7th graders won their game. Let's see if the 8th grade can do the same.

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