Youth Ministries leaders express love, gratitude for IPC youth and congregation support as they embark on new adventures. Youth Ministries director Catherine Goudreau is now the director of the Children's Fresh Air Farm. Assistant director Gann Wright left February 1 to become the director of the new Youth Ministries at St. Mary's-on-the-Highlands.
IPC’s commitment to its youth, the generous investment of volunteers, and your steadfast support, the last two years have been a time of growth for the IPC youth ministry. We took our largest ever group to Montreat, added the Gatlinburg retreat (which just had its second year with more than 40 students attending!), created the John 21 breakfast, gave depth to the Con rmation program, contin- ued the tradition of Bible Times, and revamped Sunday night small groups. But all of these great joys of ministry pale in comparison to the deep relationships formed and the incredible experience of being in ministry alongside IPC’s youth. We count ourselves blessed for the generous welcome we have received and all the grace- lled moments we have been invited into. The very best thing about our job (the students) is also what makes this transition the hardest. Our peace comes from knowing that our students are being cared for and ministered to by very capable and committed volunteers.
Perhaps chief amongst our goals over the last two years was to build the youth ministry’s volunteer base. We set out to “fill the stands” for each of our youth, and wow, did you all come through! As we begin this period of transition, there are many IPC members who have agreed to fill the gaps and keep the Youth Ministry moving forward with enthusiasm, joy, and love. Volunteers will serve as Sunday night small group leaders, volunteer coordinators, Covenant Partners, Wednesday night leaders, and trip chaperones. We trust that the Spirit will continue to move in meaningful ways throughout this season of transition.
To the congregation- We are thankful for all of the encouragement, support, and love we have experienced in this place. It has been a great joy to serve such a faithful, passionate, mission-minded congregation; and you remain in our prayers always.
To the youth- We love you. We are grateful for all of the laughter, thoughtful conversations, and time together over the last two years. You are the great joy of our work and you mean the world to us.
We will miss you!
Catherine and Gann
