My New Church Home Kallee Pittenger

Last August I was asked to spend four Wednesday nights with the youth class; no responsibilities or long-term commitment, just as a helper to their teacher. Little did I suspect how much I would enjoy being there, and that after a few weeks with the youth, I surprised myself by volunteering to spend the rest of the year with them. I have formed close relationships with them; they have become friends and I love watching them grow in confidence and as a tighter unit as they learn how to navigate life as a teenager with God and in community. In observing the generations of youth members at First Presbyterian over the years, I see the importance of these relationships. These are the bonds that endure through moments of celebration and hardship, creating lifelong friendships while others simply fade away. 

My experiences with the youth have been very enjoyable. We have check-ins, play games, go on treasure hunts, challenge each other with trivia contests, and go on a variety of field trips, team building activities, and camps. In the middle of all the fun and fellowship, we also dive into the primary goal of deepening our understanding of God. While our lesson plans may not always be up to textbook standards, I watch them leave a lasting impact.

Discovering the unique qualities and challenges of each youth member and forming connections with them has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It's amazing to think that God guided me into this role, and I'm perhaps the most surprised by this journey. In the past, you'd typically find me in my familiar spots around the church: the kitchen, the sanctuary, the James Park room, or the fellowship hall. But now, you can locate me in my newfound church home: the youth loft, surrounded by my wonderful new friends!

Have you volunteered for something unexpected at FPC lately?