B-PV Young Life Monthly Update
November 2023
LOOKING BACK & MOVING FORWARD
The fullness of joy is to behold God in everything.
Julian of Norwich
One thing I love about being Catholic is the way we remember the people of faith who have gone before us - the saints. Looking at the ways God has worked in and through so many different people throughout history makes me grateful to be part of “so great a cloud of witnesses” and it’s a reminder that the way we live matters. Every day we have the opportunity to be intentional about finding joy in our circumstances and loving those around us. I find encouragement for doing this by learning from the stories of the saints.
The lesson of looking back to move forward well that the saints can teach us applies to the work of Young Life in Bettendorf and Pleasant Valley. Reflecting on what we’ve done, how effective we are and where there are opportunities to grow can provide valuable insights and direction for our present and future efforts. In all of this, we’re constantly rejoicing that God is moving in our mission. Let’s take a look at four key areas…
IMPACT...Our leaders know about 65 kids than we did last November and WyldLife Clubs regularly host 30-40 students. We're excited to take 5 high schoolers to Fall Camp next weekend and have a new Young Life Club up and running soon!
PRAYER…We know prayer is absolutely vital in our work. Would you join me in praying for a young mom I met recently who is working really hard to build a safe, healthy life for herself and her kids and wondering how God might fit into their story? Please also pray for our teenage friends, YL leaders, staff of B-PV schools and local partners in youth ministry.
FINANCES…A new fiscal year started October 1, 2023 and as our ministry grows, so does our financial need. The success of this year’s Golf Outing and Cornhole Challenge helped pad our Camping budget to offset travel costs for summer trips. We are currently working to raise $1,400/month in recurring giving to lessen the gap between our income and expenses. Would you consider partnering with us monthly? Click HERE to give directly! Financial gifts of any size are necessary and appreciated!
STAFF, COMMITTEE & LEADERS…As we continue to grow connections with kids, our need for more leaders and committee members grows as well. We hope to have a YL Club starting soon for our high school friends and in order to make that happen we need 6 new leaders. Would you (or someone you know) be a good fit for Young Life? No special skills needed, except a love for Jesus and a heart for teenagers.
I’m continually grateful for those of you who partner with B-PV Young Life to make a positive impact in the lives of adolescents. THANK YOU for being a source of joy and a reflection of God’s love in our community.
Peace and prayers!
Emily
UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
Fall Camp : )
High schoolers from the Heartland Region will gather for fall camp fun in Springfield, IL November 10-12. Pray for a great trip!
Wild for WyldLife!
Check out YL Committee...
Our next meeting is at 7:30 PM on Tuesday, 11/14 at 6226 Settler's Pointe Circle.
LEARN WITH ME
"We know that the single most powerful force for mental health in
teenagers is positive relationships with caring adults. We know this."
Lisa Damour
I'd love it if you'd take an hour of your time and watch this interview featuring Lisa Damour, clinical psychologist and expert in adolescent development. She's full of wisdom and practicality for all of us who are working together to support teenagers in this challenging and critical phase of life.
STAY CONNECTED...
and on Instagram too @younglifebpv : )
Email: YoungLifeBPV@gmail.com
Website: bpv.younglife.org
Location: PO Box 632 Bettendorf, IA 52722
Phone: 563.940.2201
Facebook: facebook.com/YLBPV