Dear Fourth Church Youth Parents,

 

Welcome to the new year! In terms of school and church life, it's not new at all, of course, just the second (and considerably longer) part of the year. Still, every occasion for celebrating newness is worth marking. So, happy new year!

 

January is a very full month for youth ministry at Fourth Church. Here are some of the highlights:

That's way too much for one month, I know. Here's a quick guide for acting on those things:

 

Our webpage has all the information you need to register for summer trips or for the Junior High Winter Retreat, and there is an online form to enter a chili in the cook-off (this last one is coming up quick. My plan is to crock pot some chili on Saturday and bring it with me on Sunday). Youth in Confirmation should RSVP for the Homelessness Immersion by January 15.

 

The January 21 Our Whole Lives (OWL) parent orientation is required if you would like your son or daughter to participate in the OWL retreat February 18-19. OWL is a sexuality education curriculum developed by the United Church of Christ and Unitarian Universalist Association. It is a thoroughly researched, developmentally appropriate tool for discussing, in a nurturing environment, a very important subject with youth. In order for a student to participate, at least one parent must attend the orientation.

 

Let me end with a note of gratitude for you and all your kids. It is a great privilege to accompany you on the journey of discipleship, and I hope these first several months of 2018 provide us plentiful and meaningful opportunities to grow in faith together.

 

Yours,

 

Pastor Rocky