I (Pastor Brad) was asked the question ‘Why do I do what I do?’.  And to this question I have two main answers… A short answer and a long answer…

The short answer is that I love teenagers.  More importantly, I love Jesus.  I recognize that no matter what happens in my life, Jesus Christ DIED FOR ME so I dedicate myself to LIVE FOR HIM!  But also, I see that God has given me an unique ability to build solid, lasting relationships with people, especially teens.

Now for the slightly longer answer.  I had a lot of struggles as a teen!  I kept most of these issues to myself.  I went through my daily routine of inwardly struggling with self-esteem and self-worth, while outwardly putting on a fake smile and going about my business.  Not only was I not willing to share my struggles with others, I really did not feel like I had someone that I could share them with.  I needed guidance.  I needed someone in my life to listen.  I just did not know who I could turn to. 

As the Youth Pastor here at Calvary, I am blessed to be the person that many of our teenagers turn to in a time of need.  I can tell you from experience that there are times during our teenage years that we need someone to confide in.  For me, nothing is more fulfilling in this position than sitting down with teenagers to help walk them through the difficulties of life, friendships, family issues and most importantly a relationship with our God.  I have learned that I clearly do not have all of the answers to this life, but my hope is that God uses me to help point our teens to Him!   I want all of our teens to know that our God is bigger than our problems.  Our God loves us despite our failures.  And honestly, we can take joy in knowing that we serve and AMAZING GOD!