Youth Group Adventures
By Rick & Carolyn Bridge
February 1st with Pastor Pamela
We met at Rick and Carolyn's and our guest was our very own Pastor Pamela. We opened up with the debate on whether humans are inherently good or inherently evil. We talked about nature versus nurture: our being and our choice. They gave personal reasons and worldly situations to support both opinions.
Pastor Pamela led a discussion on Pelagianism, Arminianism, and Calvinism: three different beliefs of original sin. We as Baptists believe a combination of Arminianism and Calvinism which teaches that original sin can be overcome with God's help, and that Christ' death has negated that sin. No matter how many good deeds we do, we still sin and we have a corrupt nature within us. Without God's preeminent grace and love, we cannot measure up.
We continued our study on “Love Wins” with the chapter on Hell. We had great discussions around that. Our devotion song was “Speak life” by TobyMac. Then we spoke life: “positive loving affirmations” to one another. Ally Copeland shared a song called “Bloodline” by Alex Warren. We enjoyed snacks and Pamela closed by praying over us all. We regret not getting pictures this time around. Another great night with our incredible youth and getting to know Pastor Pamela.
February 7th trip to Redeemer University concert
We had dinner together in Ancaster and headed to Redeemer University to “Royals Faith Night”.
It was an inspirational evening of worship and Christian music. The musicians included Zack and Maggie, a husband/wife team, and Matt Papa. It was Christian worship music with country, contemporary, and folk sounds including drums, piano, bass, guitar, violin, and acoustic.
Dan Naulty, a former New York Yankees World Series pitcher who is now a pastor, gave his testimony with a message of perseverance, faith, and hope. We sat in the balcony of an auditorium filled with youth seeking to know God better.
On the way home, we stopped at Dairy Queen for a treat to finish our night. It was a great experience. We learned about the college and what it has to offer, especially for all kinds of athletes. We left with the message that God meets us where we are and he invites us to come to him. We can do things for God no matter where we are or who we are. We are to make every opportunity to share and show God's love. It was a great new experience for us and we are grateful.
