infuse - From the Editor

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	Growing up, I always looked forward to the Summer time and while there are many summers that are special, there is one in my early teens that stands out. It was the elements of the unexpected that make that experience unique.
I had never been on a plane before, nor had I ever gone so far from home without my parents. But, at the age of 14 I was on my way to Orr, Minnesota to attend the church youth camp. I had a great time, made a lot of friends and enjoyed many good adventures. Reflecting on that occasion reminded me of some great gifts I was given the summer of 1969. The counselors, staff and ministry did not appear to see us, the campers, as a mass of young people they had to entertain for four weeks. Instead, each camper was treated with respect, trust and equality. We were not seen as troublemakers but rather as young individuals who had hopes, dreams, fears and who may make a mistake now and then and need some loving correction and guidance. The physical and spiritual activities offered were well structured and presented opportunities to be a team player, assertive, accepted, encouraged, challenged and recognized. That summer, I learned something new about my religion. I was not too young to understand the Word of God. God’s truth is not restricted to only those who reach a certain age of maturity. I left camp believing I was needed by God and that His church could not be complete without the participation of young people. Sadly, over the years, I believe young people have gotten lost in the upheaval of churches divided. INFUSE @ Pensacola, FL One reason Infuse was born is due to the concerns of losing so many young people. There are many who share my conviction that teens/young adults have something to contribute to God’s church and that there is a useful role for young people to play within God’s church. At this year’s Feast of Tabernacles we are trying something new in Pensacola, Florida, which is called the Infuse Service. The Infuse Service is a pilot program and as in any new program, we need the energy, help and suggestions from all of you. We need you to put your gifts, talents, knowledge and skills to work. It is our goal to cultivate opportunities for young adults to teach and lead. I am pleased to announce Mike James will be the coordinator of the Infuse Service and Activities for the teens and young adults for this year’s Feast of Tabernacles in Pensacola, Florida. For those of you who do not know Mike, he is a man that is passionate about sharing the gospel. He is skilled, intelligent, hard working and his heart cares about young people. I went to camp seeking a fun time and ultimately found out Christianity is not for spectators, but rather a religion that encourages participation. “Make them ready for your service through your truth; your teaching is truth” John 17:17. God tells all of us, young and old that His Word is truth and He instructs us to study His Word to show ourselves approved (II Timothy 2:15). There isn’t an age or gender listed in God’s instruction. I encourage each of you to become a participant and I welcome your suggestions and ideas for this year’s Feast of Tabernacles, this magazine and the website. God bless you, Noni McVey Editor in Chief