The Value of Youth Group
By Dawn Cusimano
When I was in high school and beginning preparations to make my Confirmation, I was struggling with a dry faith life. I wrestled with the decision to move forward with receiving the sacrament.
One day, a classmate extended an invitation which completely changed the course of my faith and my life. She invited me to join her for a youth group meeting. I had never heard of youth group before, but I asked my mom and she encouraged me to try it.
Almost every weekend after that, I attended youth group and, with abundant grace, my relationship with the Lord grew deeper. Along with friends, I sang praise and worship music, prayed and opened my heart to a whole new world.
When the time came for Confirmation, I was wholly committed to receiving the sacrament.
I’ve since learned that my story is not unique. Several friends have shared similar personal stories with me.
Fast forward many years.
I just got home from picking up my oldest son from his first youth group meeting. I know that as he matures, there will be limits to what I and my husband will be able to do. Eventually, he will have a choice to have a relationship with God or reject him.
We know that things like youth group, retreats, Bible studies and prayer meetings can make a big difference, and we plan to continue to encourage them.
