Christian Youth Outreach Organizes in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne County Schools
Primary Contact Person: Pastor Joel Johnston, President
Phone: 248-740-1500
E-mail: pastorjoel@youth-net.net
Location:
2960 East Maple
Troy MI 48083
For decades the debate on the place of religion in public schools has raged. Is one free to express their religious views in front of people of other differing faiths? a statement from former President Bill Clinton is found on YouthNet's website, along with other political concerns:
" . . . Schools do more than train children's minds. They also help to nurture their souls by reinforcing the values they learn at home and in their communities. I believe that one of the best ways we can help schools to do this is by dupporting students' rights to voluntarily practice theier religious beliefs, including prayer in schools . . ."
Capitalizing on the freedom traditionally afforded religious groups in the United States, YouthNet organizes, supports and encourages student-led Bible study groups in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne county schools. The students are able to see their purpsoe as one of outreach, where in the midst of incredible peer pressure they allow other students to read into their lives and see their authentic Christian witness.
Youth-Net's website is one tool for student groups to be adopted into the organization or for new schools to be connected. If you are leading a group in your school or hope to do so, and you are feeling quite alone in the midst of it, contact YouthNet for support. YouthNet also needs dedicated adults who can offer periodical support and at least one person functioning as a youth apstor, traveling from school to school.
Target Group of Ministry: High school and middle school students in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne Counties
Current Needs: Students to lead club in their school, supported by adults and a church that senses the greater goal of reaching out to other students in the name of Jesus. Runs on mostly volunteer support. Someone with a pastor's heart, an evangelist, to be available and physically visit schools, bridge the communication gap. Also, someone to help with administrative duties.
Most Helpful Attitude from Volunteer: Openness to churches other than one's own; churches and church people willing to work together behind the students for the cause of Christian outreach in the school.
Future: Goal is to have a committed group of students in every school in Macomb, Oakland and Wayne counties. Currently in 10 schools; do these really well before taking on more.
Prayer: That YouthNet will find the right person with a pastor's and evangelist's heart to take the time to visit schools and actively connect the organization into a stronger movement.
