Wonderful Church Family,
This season we’re in feels magical- and I’m not talking about Halloween or even the incredible color show the Lord is painting up and down the Gorge right now. I’m talking about what He’s doing in our young people!
In Middle School Youth Group, students are having big, beautiful conversations about what it means to truly know Jesus and walk with the Holy Spirit. This week, we’ll dive into what it means to be filled with the Spirit. These students are smart, sincere, and they love Jesus deeply—it’s incredible to watch them worship with their whole hearts and take ownership of their faith.
Some of them also attended a retreat last weekend with other Alliance Northwest youth groups—and came home calling it “the best retreat ever!” They played epic games, built friendships, and learned what it means to truly taste and see that the Lord is good. Huge thanks to Kelsey and Garrison for leading that trip with so much love and energy, and shout out to Connie for showing up every week as the grandma we need in middle school!
Meanwhile, our High School students spent the same weekend in Seattle at an apologetics conference—and wow! They soaked in so much truth about worldview and had some of the most incredible conversations along the way. One of my favorite moments was hearing a student lay out all her tough questions, while others responded with Scripture and thoughtful discussion. The car rides were full of laughter, honesty, and real faith exploration. I came home overflowing with joy and gratitude.
At Hood River Valley High School, the Bible Study Club is thriving! Shoutout to John Combs for hosting and to Everen (along with Josie and Charis) for leading students through the Sermon on the Mount each week. Every week, they share an invitation to follow Jesus. What began with a handful of youth group students has grown to include new faces—students who are coming because they want to know more about the Gospel! One student we met there even joined youth group this week. God is drawing hearts!
Beyond the big moments like retreats and clubs, the personal growth we’re seeing is incredible. Students are letting go of idols, leading others in worship with Neal, diving into Scripture for answers, talking about Jesus like He’s their friend, and learning to disagree with kindness and respect. Their faith is becoming their own—and it’s beautiful to witness.
Teenage years are uniquely anointed for spiritual growth—just like early childhood is for learning language. This “greenhouse season” is precious and fleeting. Research tells us that students who keep their faith strong after high school are those who have relationships with caring adults who show up, listen, and cheer them on. Thank you so much for the way you love and care for our students! Every prayer and encouragement makes a difference.
If it’s not part of your regular rhythm, this week will you start a conversation with a teenager and ask them what God is up to in their lives and how you can pray for them? Or maybe shoot them a text or and little note to let them know you see them and you are for them?
For the Kingdom,
Melissa Richardson