I have joyfully been spending the last 4 years helping out and leading the high school youth at CTK. About a year and a half ago, I started up the middle school youth group, which brings just as much joy. Because I was putting so much into the youth ministry at CTK Nampa, the church decided to compensate me for my time spent. I was bi-vocational for a while and then I moved into a full-time youth pastor position. About 10 months after the full-time position, I married the love of my life and became the father of an amazing 2-year-old girl (now three). Meanwhile, our church went through 2 associate pastors, our children’s pastor stepped down, we were given a building to meet in, and we were patient. Finally, after much waiting and prayer… and more waiting, we now have two of the most amazing new staff members. Misti Sanders flawlessly stepped into the role of children’s pastor and David Underwood has masterfully filled the associate pastor position overlooking leadership in the church. Change is happening; things are now moving; and it is good…dare I say, great!
With these changes comes a big shift in my roles as well. Starting the beginning of May, CTK can no longer compensate a full-time youth pastor due to the increase in much needed staff and paying for two buildings a month. With every shift and transition life throws at us, the reevaluation of our daily, monthly, and yearly routines is necessary, as well as the balance of home and work. After looking at what life is offering, I have decided to cut my responsibilities in half as the youth pastor and focus on the middle school youth group. In this transition, two high school leaders, Brett and Jami Wolfe, will be stepping in for the high school youth. I will be staying as a leader for high school until graduations are over, then I will be solely focusing on middle school.
As much as I am going to miss this role, I am 100% for this during our church’s season of transition, and I am filled with excitement to see where the CTK story goes next! If you have any questions about any of this, you can come find me or talk with Dave Underwood!