Friends,
In uncertain times, we follow and serve a faithful God who continues to move!
I see God moving through IGNITE Communities. Just this month, we added a new location: Atlantic City. Over 35 churches brought youth groups to five locations for community, fun and worship.
I see God moving through Summer Camp preparations. We’ll have summer jobs for college students and young adults, volunteer opportunities for pastors and leaders, and hundreds of students joining us at the Pinelands Center at Mt. Misery this year in July and August.
I see God moving through ministries on seven college campuses and beyond. College students are serving through service projects, internships, Bible studies, community outreach and more.
We’re serving in anxious times for the church. It’s a hard time to be the church in America. In the UMC, General Conference is coming this year. The coronavirus is spreading. In these times, our work together is so important. I want to remind you that God is doing great things still. God is faithful still. And God is still using us to transform the world.
You’re still growing in faith and leading the church today, and Next Gen is here for help and support. Just this past week, GNJ and Next Gen have put together some guidelines and best practices for continuing ministry while coronavirus has arrived in New Jersey. Resources for youth ministry, worship, small groups and more are available here.
And, I invite you to continue to see and share where God is moving. New generations of disciples are rising up through internships, IGNITE Communities, Summer Camp opportunities, campus ministries and more. There is still great hope! You are a part of God’s great movement in the next generation of disciples, and I am grateful.
Together in the journey,
Eric Drew | Executive Director