By Matt Hein

Each summer for the past 10 years, St. Luke has brought together our junior and senior high youth to accomplish some big things through In His Service (IHS). We’ll gather again for IHS this June and serve together in significant ways. But just as important as our service throughout the week, will be the time spent sharing in each other’s unique stories.

I’m continually surprised and blessed by the stories of our youth. None of them are the same. Their unique stories matter to Jesus and impact my discipleship journey in some way!

I still remember my first experience at IHS a few years ago: landscaping at a community center in Whitmore Lake, tubing down the Huron River, and sharing in the promises of Jesus during the day’s closing devotion. It was a great experience. The most significant part for me, though, was receiving the stories of my partners, both students and adult leaders. They all mattered (and still do) to God and they all impacted the way I was (and still am) following Jesus.

Ephesians 2:10 says that we are God’s craftsmanship, each with a unique story, shaped in Jesus to do the good that God has prepared in advance for us to engage in. I need the students and adult leaders that I’ll journey with at IHS this year to help me live as God’s craftsmanship. My unique story is not complete without them. That’s one of the reasons I’m really looking forward to In His Service 2017!

IHS is a 5-day opportunity for junior and senior high youth to grow in relationship together through service and fun in local communities throughout Washtenaw County. This year’s theme, “Handcrafted: Every Craft has a Story,” based on Ephesians 2:10, will frame the experience.

Throughout the week, students will:

  • Build intentional relationships
  • Engage together in service projects throughout the greater Ann Arbor area
  • Dig into the Bible and apply it to themselves
  • Explore their unique, personal stories as part of Jesus’ greater story
  • Participate in fun adventures and activities

 

In His Service 2017 begins in St. Luke’s West Wing the evening of Sunday, June 18 and runs through early afternoon on Thursday, June 22. Students participating in IHS stay overnight at St. Luke throughout the experience and go out each day for service opportunities. Each day has a new fun activity, set times of spiritual growth, and plenty of time to share life together.

Registration is now open with a special early-bird rate of $75 until May 21, 2017. After May 21, registration increases to $90. Registration cost covers lodging, meals, transportation, and a group T-shirt.

To register, click here. For more information or to see how you can help make In His Service a success, contact Pastor Matt by email or by phone (734-971-0550).