Youth explore ministry possibilities

Two groups of high schoolers spent five days in Fresno, CA. this fall, exploring the possibility that God may be calling them to full-time vocational ministry. The 19 youth were participating in two retreats offered by Ministry Quest, a program of the Mennonite Brethren Biblical Seminary that encourages youth toward ministry.

The young people heard “call” stories told by MBBS faculty and students, explored biblical call stories, took a worship hike in Kings canyon, experienced cross-cultural worship at the Butler Ave. MB Hispanic worship service, attended a seminary class and interacted with faculty.They began to piece together their own stories of hearing God’s call on their lives. Many close friendships were formed as they recognized their common interests as leaders.

One of the youth wrote: “I’ve found that my life has changed a lot because of the retreat. In five days in Fresno, I was able to gain 15 best friends, hear God speak into my life in a very real and tangible sense, and have God’s call on my life affirmed . . . Before the MQ retreat it’s like I had God in a box. I called on Him when I needed Him, and ignored Him when I didn’t. I was doing things for God, but I wasn’t inspired by God to do them. Thanks MQ . . . for changing my dull and dreary knowledge of God, into a vibrant relationship with Him.”

Fifteen of the youth were from Canadian MB churches; four from U.S. churches. In Canada, Saskatchewan, B.C., and Manitoba were each represented by 5 students. The participants were nominated by their home congregations because they exhibited leadership potential and a curiosity about ministry. They have now entered a mentoring relationship with a leader in their home church. Further information is available from Ministry Quest director Rick Bartlett at 1-800-251-6227 or ministryquest.com.

Ministry Quest participants (clockwise, from top centre) Johanne Abrams, Stephanie Ens, Shannon Koehler, Elise Short, Benjamin Klassen, Kevin Koop, Carmen Hildebrand, Krista Heier, Jodie-Rae Peters, Glenn Sawatzky, Alise Olsen.

Ministry Quest participants (l–r): Nick Toews, Joanna Dyck, Julene Buys, Emily Heizelman, Whitney Palmer, Cami Zahn, Tyrell Foreman, Travis Barbour.

—Ministry Quest release