Dear Refuge,

Where do I start? You amaze me. I look back at Winterfest, my first trip with you guys, I remember the way yall opened up during the Saturday night devo. That was just a glimpse into how special I learned that yall are. This summer has been insane. We have had times when we did dumb things, times when we cried with each other, times when some of you scared the living daylights out of me, times when we truly saw God, times when we revealed our sins and hurts to one another, and times that we murdered each other (only with a whisper, haha). All these times helped us in growing closer to each other. The group that I have to leave on Saturday is not the group that I came to be with in June. Yall have been transformed! Each of you plays an important role in the body of Christ and more specifically, in this youth group. You each have talents that have encouraged me so much throughout this summer! Be bold with your talents. Be bold in your faith. Look for Him every day. Live with intention.

Girls: Remember to be confident! When you wake up in the morning, feel God's love for you and put on the confidence that comes from Him. Each of you is so beautiful and mean so much to me! Never let anyone convince you that you are anything other than all God says you are, which is -beautiful -unique -worthy. Believe in yourself. Respect yourself. Don't compromise. When hard times come or when friends let you down, rest in His arms. Your relationship with God is so important, in fact it is the only thing that is important. Don't fight with each other about dumb things or put each other down. You are sisters! Be there for one another and encourage one another. And always remember, He will make your life beautiful! No matter how much you have been hurt or how lost you feel, God is right beside you. Love yall so much :)

Boys: Yall were such an incredible source of my laughter this summer. So many of you have a ridiculous and incredible sense of humor. i love how so many of you put yourselves out there. Just as an example, how you went all out in your Wetoga videos. Continue to step out for God. He is creating leaders in and among you. Be ready for the things that God will be asking you to do. You have so much potential! I know you have many opportunities to say things you shouldn't, laugh at things you shouldn't, look at things you shouldn't, and sit back while others step up. But step up! I have seen so much in you boys. God is living within you! Another thing, build up your sisters. Your sisters need you. They need your respect, friendship, encouragement, and in some cases your protection. Look out for one another.

Everybody: Stay involved. This summer was wonderful! And guess what.. This schoolyear can be also. Keep up with those of you that go to different schools. Plan to hang out with each other. Be present on Sundays and Wednesdays and lift one another up. And also, in every day, look for ways to be different! Don't fit in with the crowds. Love on those who seem to be left out, say no when people ask you to compromise your morals, and strive to look more like Christ every day. Each of you means so much to me. I am only a phone call or a Facebook message away. Never think twice about calling me up, just do it! And I will be back to visit on the reg. Love each one of you.

God is our refuge!


Josh: Thank you so much for all that you do! You have so much dedication and your heart for this youth group is so full. You TRULY care. It was so encouraging for me to see how much you love these teens. God brought you to us at a desperate time and He has been working so much through you and your family. You are special and exactly who we needed! I truly enjoyed our summer!

Andrew: Oh man! I am really going to miss you. I am not just saying that. Yeah, we don't have everything in common, but who does? Thank you for being a friend! You always had a big hug waiting for me. Your boldness is incredible! We went thru some junk this summer. But I am thankful that we went thru it together. I pray that God blesses you!!! Hopefully I will get out to Searcy for a visit this year!