Youth Group Adventures
By Rick & Carolyn Bridge
March 29th
Wendy Squires hosted the youth and led them through the symbolism of the Seder meal of the Jewish Passover. It was a wonderful way to enter Holy Week. She set up small tables to gather on the floor on cushions. We shared bitter herb, matzah, fresh ground horseradish, apple chutney, and grape juice.
The symbolism was explained as we ate.
We also had a resurrection Easter egg hunt and revisited the Holy Week story. The homemade snacks included kettle corn popcorn, jello rolls, and little homemade paper baskets with treats. A very touching Seder experience.
March 1st
One of the girls added to our prayer cross using pink yarn, remembering her funny and loving friend who passed away. We talked and prayed for her family and friends that will miss her dearly. We prayed for youth in general and how important it is to love, accept, and encourage one another.
One of the boys opened for us as we read the book of Jude together. Jude was a follower of Jesus and a brother to James. His main message is to warn believers to look for the truth of the Gospel and to beware of false teachings.
To continue with our study, we finished the chapter on Hell. We then enjoyed learning and playing the game “flip seven” we all received at Games Night from Jordan Lahn.
March 8th
Beth McCloskey was our guest (via Zoom) and spoke to us on homemade remedies. She spoke of simple healthy choices we can make and to be aware of what we put in our bodies. Think of it as fuel for good health. We boiled organic elderberries mixed with water, ginger root, and cinnamon. We added honey for taste. After 45 minutes of boiling and stirring, we strained the juice/syrup and wringed out the berries. The liquid tincture was then put in jars for each of the youth to take home. This elderberry syrup can be used daily for its high vitamins, C in particular. It has antioxidants as an immune helper during times of colds. She talked about sugars, food dyes, and other unhealthy culprits. She shared her pantry of antibiotics and salves she has made at home from a 2025 home apothecary book. It was fun and informative and we will all think twice before we eat McDonald's too often!
We had a Zoom meeting with Alvin Lau of CBOQ Youth to ask any questions about Ascent weekend. We finalized who was coming and registered . We anticipate a fun weekend at this event!
We continued the book “Love Wins” by Rob Bell with the chapter on “Does God get what He wants?” and learned that the Lord loves us so deeply that he gives us free will.
To finish our night off Beth closed in prayer for the youth thanking God for all he has given us. There are Bible verses about plants, trees, and our needs. The youth enjoyed air hockey until their parents picked them up. A special thank you for the delicious Easter cookies!
