“I thank my God every time I remember you, constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. “  -Philippians 1:3-5

Thank a Youth Worker Day is this Thursday, November 3.  It was started by a group of youth workers and youth work organization executives in Indiana who wanted to make a difference for the field of youth work.  Seemed a simple way to recognize all those volunteers and staff who invest in the lives of young people.  The hope was that youth workers wouldn’t have to organize their own thank a youth worker party, but would be able to own the value and impact of their work and ministry.

So as we approach this day of celebration this week, we just wanted to take a moment and thank those of you who work in ministry with youth in The UMC in Indiana.  Hear from the Conference and from the church a HUGE thank you!!! For your ministry with youth, thank you!  For the time and energy you give, thank you!  For the sacrifices you make to be in ministry and share God’s love with youth, thank you!  For answering God’s call to be in ministry with young people, thank you!  You obviously don’t do it for the money or the recognition, and some days are filled with joy and some are filled with (let’s just say not so much joy).  Ultimately you are in ministry with youth because you have faith, you know Christ’s love, and you have answered God’s call to share that amazing love with the youth and children among us.  Thank you for the blessing you are as a youth worker!

PS:  If you’re like most youth workers who don’t want the personal attention and always credit others, take a moment to pat yourself on the back, and then grab an opportunity this week to thank another youth worker who has impacted you.