Lifeblood of our Ministry

Within our youth ministry, perhaps the greatest challenge of this extra-challenging year was the frustrating loss of small groups meeting together in-person on a weekly basis. We have often said that Small Group Leaders are the lifeblood of our ministry and the “new normal” of the pandemic has caused some of our leaders, like Jan Hudgins, to look for unique ways to stay connected to students. Jan has a long history of volunteering within CCYM, but she most recently returned as a volunteer in fall of 2019 to work with the 8th grade girls. Jan has a contagious energy and joy for living that is an inspiration to many. Our girls loved her (how could they not!), and she busied herself with building relationships with her new group, exhibiting the same enthusiasm she has shown with many other students over the years. Even after the pandemic changed life-as-we-knew-it, Jan continued to look for ways to connect with her girls. Meeting inperson was especially difficult, but on numerous occasions Jan has been able to recruit a squad of girls to go shopping with her or grab a meal for some conversation and mentoring. Recently, Jan was able to meet with Sophie Hadfield (9th) and Kinsley Childs (8th) for an after church lunch. Regarding Jan’s influence, Sophie had this to say: “She tries to include everybody, and it always ends up being a lot of fun. I love hanging out with Jan because she really tries to connect and make time for us. And it really means a lot. She gives the best advice; she’s SO much fun. She’s hilarious, and loves us.” Sophie’s parents, Paul and Amy, have this to add: “Jan has found a way to bridge the gap between their generations in the most meaningful way. She reminds us of adults who invested in us, and we realize how important that mentorship is now. It also inspires us to reach out and do similar work ourselves.” Thank you, Jan, for your example of tireless enthusiasm, your mentoring of young people, and the way you inspire others to make a difference.