Tuesday, August 16, 2011

A couple of youth updates

Hi, it's Amy here.  I just wanted to give a few updates on our Youth program.  Back in June, we made the decision to discontinue the program indefinitely as the program had grown beyond what could be managed by those involved in organizing and leading it on a voluntary basis having family and work responsibilities. 

We recognize that our youth are the basis for growth at Bethel.  Without them, the church will die along with its members.  We intend to continue to support the youth at Bethel, nurturing and encouraging them individually and with occasional group outings and functions.  

We did not make this decision lightly, but had been struggling with and praying over it for months.  It has been our honor and privilege to serve at Bethel and we want to reassure the church that we are just as committed to the church as ever and are looking forward to being a part of great things to come.  

For the last couple of months, we have been focused on renewing our own Spirits, spending more time in the Word, more time in fellowship, more time in worship, more time hanging on the vine, just loving Him, just worshiping Him, preparing for where He leads us next.

It has been a blessing that many of the students and parents have inquired about when the program will resume.  We have been asked by the Administrative Council to put together a proposal for a new and enhanced program.  In the next few weeks, we will be submitting a program proposal designed to enhance the youth program and provide leadership and ministry opportunities for members of the congregation.

We would love to have input from the youth and parents as we move forward, so please either use the comment section below or contact me directly with your ideas or concerns.  



Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Children & Youth Update

Hello, it's Amy here! I know it's been a while since you've heard from us! We've been on a bit of a break for Christmas! Meetings will resume on January 26th!

We are currently praying about the direction of the Wednesday night meetings. They aren't going away or anything, we are just focusing on how to make them better and how to better engage those children and young people who are attending. Please pray with us and for us!

There are several things coming up quickly that we want you all to be aware of. We will need support from parents in order to make them happen!

January 15th - Winter Jam 2011

It's that time of year again! 5th grade & up are invited to join us for Winter Jam 2011!

We had such a great time last year. We want to encourage you to bring your friends! This is an awesome opportunity to share your faith and build your relationship with God! And the cost is unbelievably inexpensive!! No where else can you see these BIG names for just $10! Bring money for your ticket and any snacks you might want!

We will depart from Bethel, Friday, January 14th at 5:15 pm.
We will return to Bethel around 12:30 - 1:00 am. We will need your RSVP by Sunday, January 9th to arrange transportation to and from Jacksonville.

JACKSONVILLE, FL Date: 1/14/2011
Venue: Jacksonville Memorial Arena
TIME: 7:00PM
COST: $10
Doors open at 6:00PM
Pre-Show approx. 6:05PM
Lights Down approx. 6:55PM
Show Ends approx. 10:20PM


ARTIST LINE-UP: Tony Nolan • Chris Sligh • Chris August • Sidewalk Prophets • KJ-52 • NewSong • RED • Kutless • Francesca Battistelli • David Crowder Band • Newsboys

>Students who are younger than 5th grade are invited to come as well, but a parent must accompany them. The reason for this is that the Arena is a large place and it is very hard for 2 chaperons to accommodate younger children. This is an excellent and economical family event!

Souper Bowl of Caring - February 5th & 6th

February 5th - Youth Service Blitz @ LAD Soup Kitchen
We will serve breakfast and lunch at the soup kitchen in shifts.
Details are still being worked out. We hope to have the K4C kids serve breakfast and the CHAOS group serve lunch.

February 6th - Soup ‘R Chili Bowl
Charity fundraiser for LAD Soup Kitchen as part of the nationwide Souper Bowl of Caring initiative. Kids will help serve soup in the Fellowship Hall after church. They will sell tickets in advanced starting on January 16th. We need 2 volunteers to sell after the 8:30 service, 2 before the 11:00 service and 2 after the 11:00 service on January 16th, 23rd and 30th .

Olustee Festival February 18th-20th

Volunteers Needed - Fundraising Opportunity
We have the opportunity to raise money for our annual programs by working a coke booth at the Olustee Battle Field Friday, Saturday, & Sunday, February 14th from 9 am - 4 pm. We need kids and\or parents to volunteer for either 2 or 3 hour shifts. Open shifts are as follows:

Friday:
9:00-11:00 am
11:00 am -1:00 pm
1:00 pm -4:00 pm

Saturday:
9:00-11:00 am
11:00 am -1:00 pm
1:00 pm -4:00 pm

Sunday:
9:00-11:00 am
11:00 am -1:00 pm
1:00 pm -4:00 pm

If you want to help, please contact Mrs. Amy or Mrs. Dawn ASAP. We will not commit to this activity unless all shifts are filled with dependable volunteers! We will have a sign-up sheet on Sunday!