What do Easter and Summer Camp have in common? Both are important dates on our YoungLives Paterson calendar that were impacted by the pandemic – and both demonstrate our determination to bring the hope of the gospel to pregnant and parenting teens – no matter what!
YoungLives Paterson, a collaboration of Lighthouse and Young Life Bergen County, typically meets every second Saturday for Club, which includes lunch, games, crafts, and a gospel-centered talk, plus childcare to keep the youngest guests happy and safe. Twice a month, the pregnant and parenting teens gather for Community Group – a time focused on Bible study, discussion and prayer.
This spring we found creative ways to continue supporting our teen moms, such as Zoom meetings and texting links to RightNow Media. With social distancing in full swing, several leaders donned masks for door-to-door deliveries of Easter baskets packed full with God’s love. The expressions on the moms’ and children’s faces made this Good Friday even better!
This summer, the much-anticipated YoungLives Camp looks a lot different. Most years, camp is a sleepaway experience in August — full of laughter, fantastic food, great conversations, and resort-quality facilities. It’s often called the “best 5 days of your life” and we look forward to it every year!
This summer, we’re having “Virtual Camp” from August 3 – 7! The young moms are able to choose from typical camp activities, like dance class or arts and crafts, and enjoy a “cabin time” debrief after hearing from a great speaker each evening. The big difference this year — it will all be virtual! We’ll be connecting via Zoom as a group — but plan to meet together in person (with social distancing, of course) for a Live camp kickoff celebration Monday night at a local church.
Along with an exciting box of goodies from YoungLives, we are looking forward to a memorable and life-changing week together!
From Lost to Finding YoungLives
Please pray with us that despite the differences due to the pandemic, Lighthouse can continue to make an eternal difference in the lives of young moms like Melis:
“When my daughter and I arrived in America two years ago, I was totally lost. I trusted nobody. I was so constantly afraid of being judged that sometimes I told people that my daughter was my sister. At this time of my life, I was falling into depression. I could not stand to live, and I had no friends to confide in. Talking to my own mother was impossible.
“I will never forget the day I met Jess, the YoungLives Paterson leader. I was so amazed that she did not judge me! My first Saturday with the group was beautiful. I was so relieved and finally happy to be part of a group of young people like me, I couldn’t stop smiling. YoungLives is, frankly, the most beautiful experience of my life and I wish other girls will be able to experience it, too.”
To register for Virtual Camp or inquire about volunteering when YoungLives’ meetings resume, please contact Coordinator Jessica Rexford at 732-893-7353 or Jessica@LighthousePRC.org.