Some of the coolest moments to be a part of in youth ministry happen on our drives on long trips. On this trip I witnessed the work of our staffs fostered relationship and encouragement in Sophia’s life. I would ask Sophia prior to our trip to South Umpqua Falls, “Sophia, what do you want to do when you grow up?” Sophia is good at singing and acting and dancing and caring for others. Her possibilities are great, but she doesn’t see it. She would always say, “Will, I don’t know… I am just a kid.” But this time was different. She did lead with the same comment however, upon my response of, “Welp, fair enough.” She began asking questions about my job. How much school is needed, do you have to be 18, how do you start, do you make a lot of money? And finished with saying, “I would really like to do what you and Ryann do because I like encouraging and loving people and that’s what you guys do all the time. Without you, I wouldn’t have a relationship with Jesus.”

WILL ARIAS,  71Five Campus Coordinator – Shady Cove

541.841.6400 | will@71Five.org

“Lord God, you are my hope. I have trusted you since I was young.” Psalm 71:5 ICB