2016 Youth Rally

Cherishing the last time

My experience at the Youth Rally was good. There were some powerful sermons led by Reggie (Dabbs) and a very successful event led by CCYM (Conference Council on Youth Ministry) and David Piltz. Being a high school senior means this will most likely be my last year going to this rally; so I really just took in all that was going on and cherished this last time. It is a great experience, and I would advise anyone who hasn’t done it to do it next year.

Connor Zorger, Senior, CCYM

CCYM

Staying closer to God

When I first came to C.C.Y.M. I did not know what to expect. I remember going to one of the youth retreats. I wasn’t a member, but I decided that C.C.Y.M. was something to be a part of.  I asked Dave Piltz and joined right away because I knew this was my chance to give back to my church.

C.C.Y.M. definitely helped me stay closer to God. The deeds done in his name always seemed to be more impactful to me as an individual, and I really felt as though I was making a difference in people’s lives. I know there are many people today dealing with things that I personally could not imagine going through myself. All I know is you have to surround yourself with good people who will listen, keep things private and most importantly, do anything they can to help you.

I have never had contact with my biological father. As a result of this, I have had immense problems with my self- worth.  C.C.Y.M. not only allowed me to be heard in a safe environment, but it also helped me find a sense of purpose. Since then, I have never dealt with the things that brought me down in the same way. Now I can think of all the youth who have come to our events and become closer to God and even enjoyed themselves.

C.C.Y.M. has been a very important part of my life, and honestly, I don’t know if I’m ready to leave it. That being said, it now comes time for new ideas and some fresh faces. Someday I hope to return and do my part to lead. I can’t wait to come back and see what C.C.Y.M. has become.

Mike High, Senior, CCYM

A chance to help

I remember my first meeting with C.C.Y.M. I was scared, nervous and excited. I had a mixture of emotions, and I did not know what to expect. I thought to myself, “Just sit there and listen.” So I did, and do you know what? I was impressed.

They explained how we were to plan and organize events to help youth connect with God. At that time I knew a couple of people who were at rock bottom, and to me this was my calling. Jesus was saying to me, “This is your chance to help.”

So over time, as we created events, not just me but everyone has had the chance to hear the inspirational stories the kids have to share.

Being in my position is truly a blessing. I love to see the smiles and hear all the stories we have through our retreats, meetings and rallies. Being a part of this organization has definitely changed my life for the better. It has given me leadership skills, the ability to open up and relate, and also to listen.

These key concepts are going to help me throughout my entire life, and I can safely say that I am much closer to God than I was expecting to be when I first started. So with that I am honored to say I was a part of such a moving organization called C.C.Y.M.

Kayla Bartkewich, Senior, CCYM