After facing the fury of a typhoon in the Philippines with young people from around the globe, Bishop Ward reminds us of the importance of our youth, their leadership and John Wesley’s love for young people.
Grace and peace to you in the name of Jesus Christ.
I give thanks today for the ways that young people across the United Methodist Church are stepping up into God’s light and out into God’s mission. Just a few days ago, it was my pleasure to be in the midst of the Global Young People’s Convocation in the Philippines, and to be a part of the commissioning of 42 global mission fellows. Even the fury of the typhoon could not overwhelm the excitement and joy of the gathering.
Young people are stepping up into God’s light and out into God’s world. Here in the North Carolina Annual Conference, summer youth events have been a time of love, connection, and mission, and we give thanks for all the ways in which young people and those who work with them have led us through Breakaway and ACS, the Appalachian Trail Hike and onward into the Conference Youth Council Retreat. Very soon, we look forward to Pilgrimage this fall, and we invite young people from across the annual conference to step up into leadership. Check the website, be in touch as you offer your gifts of music, of leadership, and of witness.
In this time, we know the great challenge of young people in many parts of the world. Young girls in Nigeria kidnapped and held because they sought an education. Young people coming across the border to seek a better life. In every way, we seek to be in ministry with those who are young. Thanks be to God for the United Methodist Church which began on a campus long ago. Our founder, John Wesley, was a campus minister, it’s often said. We are a movement in love with the young. Thank you for the ways in which your local church is reaching out to embrace young people wherever you are.