Support of Love 1st

It is truly an exciting season of growth in the life of the church. This week, I want to share a little more about my heart for our youth and opportunities you have to jump in and serve with us.

During my undergraduate studies at Whitworth, we dove into research conducted by the Fuller Youth Institute, known as the Sticky Faith Project, which shares insights into meaningful ways ​​

Kierstie Renninger

to come alongside students. Chap Clark suggests one of the leading markers of lasting faith in students in the presence of at least 5 adults willing to invest in each students’ lives. That number has really stuck with me, and was a pillar of development in my own philosophy and heart for ministry to youth. When I reflect back on my own experience navigating life through my teenage years, I am grateful for the people who supported and invested in me, during a transformational season of life. When I look around the pews on Sunday mornings, I see the smiling faces of so many people who have poured into me, loved me and my family, and who’ve walked alongside me through many pivotal moments in my life. Out of this church family came trusted mentors and cherished friends. 

Our mission at 1st Pres is to Love1st. An integral piece of that call is to love our students and their families by encouraging and supporting their endeavors, equipping them to share their unique gifts with the world, and walking with them on their faith journey. During the last few years, I have been honored and privileged to serve our youth and families with our youth team and staff. We have amazing students in our midst, who are world changers, and they’re just getting started! 

My encouragement to our church family is to seek ways to get connected with our students. Prayerfully consider what capacity you could serve and invest in the lives’ of our students. Would you join us in praying for students? Would you join us in cheering them on at games, performances, and other special events? Would you join us in providing scholarships for summer camp experiences? Would you join us in connecting with and investing in students’ lives on Sunday mornings? Whatever the call may be in your heart, please consider jumping in and getting connected! 

If you feel called to serve students in our ministry, or have questions, please contact me at [email protected]. 

Blessings,
Kierstie