In late summer of 2022, I met Christian. It began with, “Dab me up bro!” referring to a handshake. Then he asked, “What is this place?” I answered, “This is a youth center. A place for you and your friends to enjoy.” “OK! When does it open?” I told him about our process with the City which I’m sure sounded like a bunch of ‘gobbleygook.’ Over the next few months Christian and many other kids would stop by for some hot chocolate we served in the morning. As we continued to give dabs, high fives, and knuckles, the question remained, “When are you opening?” And then it happened… We got the official word we could open our doors to the public! Christian was so excited and began telling his friends about the youth center across the street from school. Now that we are open, we sit and have a time of devotions and Christian does not sit still very well, but Christian was listening more than I ever thought. One day he asked, “Can you pick me up for church?” He put on his boots, nice jeans, and cowboy hat and received many compliments for how well he’s dressed. I asked the Sunday School teacher how well he did the first time, she said, “He was the biggest help!”

 

Jesus is working in Shady Cove. Through your prayers and financial partnership, we serve food, play games, share devotions and even pick young people up and take them to church at 71Five Campus. Thank You!