An Open Letter To My Youth Pastor | The Odyssey Online
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An Open Letter To My Youth Pastor

I want to thank you because I haven't enough.

Gabby Ater
Apr 25, 2016
Ashland University
2110
An Open Letter To My Youth Pastor
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Dear Youth Pastor,

Give yourself a pat on the back. Not just because you're awesome, but because you've made such a difference in my life, along with many others, that 4 years ago I never would have guessed would happen. I've become the person I am today because of the impact our youth group and yourself have had on me. I've grown to love and grow in the Lord because of you. Sure, I came to youth group on my own, but I never would have stayed if it weren't for you.

I'm not sure that you ever give yourself enough credit. You put in more work than most people realize--kids are tough. As a youth pastor, you are constantly running after kids that don't have a problem saying no to you. You go after kids that have a million things on their plate with school and sports or maybe not the best home life, but you never stop. You pursue us because you care, and I think we forget that sometimes.

Between the youth groups, cell groups at your house, mission trips, local service projects, post-youth group conversations, trips to pizza places, random parkour-ing, and football games at the park, you've made an impact on all of us.

So I want to take the time to thank you because I haven't enough. Thank you for running after broken kids and bringing them to Christ. Thank you for the love you show us. Thank you for never giving up on us despite all the flaws we may have. You show us the true meaning of grace and love more than most people do.

Thank you for pursuing me. Thank you for helping me start my walk with Christ. Thank you for your part in shaping me into the person and Christian I am today.

You rock.

Your thankful youth groupee

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