Conference Youth Report
2009

Facebook. Twitter. MySpace. Texting. For students, these new social media tools are as much part of life as the radio and television have been for the generations previous. They represent a new "reality" for youth workers as well. Many are harnessing these sites as effective tools to communicate, pray for, keep accountable, and connect with their students. Parents and grandparents alike are all getting Facebook pages to share pictures and keep tabs on their families.

I'm not writing to lift up or condemn the use of social networking sites. But I am here to exhort all who desire to minister to students to do so authentically . Genuine, true, and real relationships are the goal of every youth worker-the goal of every Christian. Without authentic relationships, our faith is surface deep and our foundation shaky. If you are a youth worker or just someone who loves Jesus and loves people, let us all work hard to authentically connect with others for the sake of the Kingdom of God.

To be honest (a mark of authenticity), this year has been a tough one mainly due to the amount of work and prayer we have put into the Mendez claim. God has blessed the Conference and many of our churches with the completion of the claim. We give God the credit for this. We also need to continue to pray for Bryan and his family. We are also learning from this process and working hard to plan, train, and adjust our summer camps to better minister to your students holistically. Thank you very much for your prayers and support through these last few years.

Speaking of summer camps, we saw many students come to Jesus this last summer! Junior High Camp, held at Eagle Cove Camp at Triangle Lake, saw at least 24 conversions and many others who took a step in their relationship with Jesus. The new facility worked well, taught us much and we are currently looking forward to a great camp this July 13-17, 2009. The theme will be "GROW", capitalizing on the "green" emphasis in our culture, we are focusing on growing students in their relationship with Jesus.

Senior High Camp saw at least 20 conversions and many called to be bold in sharing their faith with others. It was refreshing to have many senior/lead pastors come and teach in the mornings-in fact, it went so well, we're doing it again! Ed Kelly is a great paintball player-watch out! This year we are excited about an "EPIC" week that really encourages students to boldly follow Jesus into the new life He has for them. Camp will be August 9-14 this summer (2009).

I desire to be an encouragement to the Pacific Conference youth leaders throughout the year through informal/formal coaching, resourcing, brainstorming, and just listening. Please do not hesitate to call, email, text, or even catch me on Twitter!

Thank you for continuing to love & pray for students and support the Conference Youth Ministry.

Erin Loftis, Conference Youth Director.

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