Time grabs you by the wrist, directs you where to go
So make the best of this test, and don't ask why
It's not a question, but a lesson learned in time
It's something unpredictable, but in the end is right,
I hope you had the time of your life."
One full cycle of Life Teen is complete. Four years ago an enthusiastic group of freshmen walked through the doors of the parish center. Well, ok, not all of you were enthusiastic. Some of you took some convincing, others were so excited to finally be a part of Life Teen that you volunteered to dress up the very first night......
Every one of you has made an impact that will never be forgotten. Not only in the lives of your youth minister and the Core Team, but in our parish and in the lives of countless teens who come to River Valley Life Teen.
Class of 2014: you don't ever have to wonder if you've left your mark. The fruits of your labor are evident just to the west of Immaculate Conception Church in the 4:12@IC. You helped make a dream a reality. Your commitment, service, prayers, and involvement will always be remembered and cherished. A special thanks goes to the Teen Core seniors.Thank you for "sticking it out" with us and serving River Valley Life Teen for 4 years. We really couldn't have done it without you. Thank you for having a heart for Jesus! We know the walk has not always been easy, but thank you for your determination, enthusiasm, service, willingness, and love.
So where does that leave you- and us? I think it leaves all of us in a scary and exciting place!
You've finally graduated! This Friday we will celebrate Confirmation and then begin the process of putting together a new Teen Core. While your new semester at college begins, we will be welcoming a brand new batch of freshmen that we pray inspire us as much as you have. And so the cycle continues as our Life Teen family grows. It's what we all have anxiously waited for, right??
John 16:22 says, "But I will see you again and your hearts will rejoice, and no one will take your joy away from you."
We say goodbye to you through tears. We will find ourselves in a new and unique relationship with you, as you will with us. Just because you're off to college doesn't mean our job is done. Visit when you're home, text when you need encouragement, and do a few things for us:
1. Get yourself to Mass- even when you don't feel like it. You will need spiritual nourishment.
2. Get involved in your campus ministry. (See #1)
3. Follow the rule of St. Benedict- "live differently, putting the love of Christ before all else".
4. Keep in touch- with us and with each other.
You are going into what may be one of the most challenging times of your life, but don't do it alone. Temptation will be everywhere and can easily drown out God's voice. It will be hard to get back up when you fall and that is what we are here for.
As Green Day says in the song 'Good Riddance',
"For what it's worth it was worth all the while."
We couldn't have said it any better.
We love you!
Chuck and Mandy
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