Making a Difference for our Young Ones

Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ. (Galatians 6:2)

The Christian faith remains relevant when we meet human needs in God’s name. Sadly, our ailing society provides overwhelming areas requiring divine care. As I read the Washington Post on February 15th, I was troubled by an article in the Opinion section entitled, “American teens are unwell because American society is unwell,” by Kate Woodsome. I hope Woodsome’s words upset you too. According to the Youth Risk Behavior Survey, taken throughout the US since the pandemic's start, “Nearly 1 in 3 high school girls reported in 2021 that they had seriously considered suicide. Teen girls reported the highest ever levels of sexual violence, sadness and hopelessness.” Further, Woodsome quotes a Drake University study that “Rates of bullying were increasing in the state [Iowa] even in 2018,” nearly two years before the pandemic.

Drake University is less than a mile from Westminster Church, and we’ve watched the news of increased bullying and school systems in our state unable or unwilling to address the situation. This year’s Iowa State Wrestling tournament included controversy when a school system allowed a High School wrestler to compete after he horrifically violated another boy.

Religious communities need to respond with a two-pronged approach. First, we need to be intentional in responding to individual needs. Our youth groups must remain available to nurture children and youth in their moments of most profound struggle. Churches should also work with other not-for-profit organizations like Big Brothers, Big Sisters, and Teammates, who provide mentoring and support for children and youth. Working together, fewer children will fall through the cracks and suffer alone.

Second, this is the time to invest in our public schools. Meeting children where they are and providing hope is essential to healing this generation of young people. Bringing together the faith community together with not-for-profit programs and public schools is a process that can make a transformative difference in our community, our nation, and our world. If you want to volunteer in a program, email me at Scott@westpres.og, and I can provide you with a specific contact. Further, do not forget to pray for our young people. Each one is dealing with struggles our generations did not have to face. Each person needs the Spirit’s support in this uniquely challenging time.