Influencing Our Youth

Dear Friends,

As some of you already know, on Friday, July 3 a group of us were given an opportunity to reach out to our youth long-term through a presentation led by Paul Rishel, a former Renovian who now lives in Bradford County. Their area, like ours, was faced with the challenge of how to influence their youth as none of the 11 churches in the area could do so individually. In meeting together, it became obvious to them that they should begin with an event at a neutral location — their local school — which both students and parents already felt was a trusted environment. That first event seven years ago — which continues to include 7th through 12th graders — has blossomed into a weekly after school program, a Bible study for those interested in their spiritual journey, and many other events where the youth can enjoy food, fun and many valuable teachings that will help them to be successful in life. Their non-profit organization includes many area folks — farmers, bakers ‘and candle stick makers’ — just concerned but very ordinary folks who want their youth to know how much they care about their youth. Clergy members, though also a part of the community-wide outreach, are not a part of this integral board.

Paul and his group shared testimonies (one powerful testimony was from a 14-year-old young woman) and ‘how to’ training. They have also invested in our area beginning to launch the same type of program — R.O.C.C. (Reaching Our Community for Christ) Renovo — by offering seed money to help us get started. This donation will enable us to purchase flyers, and other resources in anticipation of all that will develop here in our local area. To that end, some of us have already committed to a first event at Bucktail High School on Saturday, September 19 from 4:00-7:00p.m. Paul’s group is coming back to put on the presentation but they need lots of help from us.

We’ll be meeting again on Friday, July 17 at 6:30 p.m. at Christian Community Church’s fellowship hall to begin implementing a plan to assure the success of this event. We hope that you can join us and encourage others to come as well. Together, we can make a huge and positive difference in the lives of our area young people!

Grateful for you,

Pastor Rich & Denise Colvin
Christian Community Church
South Renovo