Rana flips through enrollment forms, pausing to remember the stories behind each name. She prays silently for shy teens who might never raise their hands and for newcomers hoping to find a place where they belong.
It’s these quiet acts of prayer, planning, and care that form the foundations of ministry. To give a glimpse of this hidden work, we asked several staff members to share their reflections on this ministry year’s preparation stage. We pray you’re encouraged as you read!
Rana, Manara Youth Center Administration Coordinator
We lift every young person before God’s throne, seeking to understand their backgrounds even before we meet them. This year, I pray that youth will truly experience Jesus. I pray they feel loved, heard, and safe enough to ask questions. I hope they discover their talents and passions as they take part in the center’s activities. I hope we can be God’s vessels in inspiring change. Though my role includes more administrative tasks this year, my commitment to walking with these teens—through laughs, tears, and quiet prayers—remains as strong as ever, if not stronger!
Nicolas, AXIS Youth Center Team Leader
More than any activity or plan, the word defining this season has been unity at AXIS. We’ve intentionally nurtured our team through regular meetings, personal growth, and boosting morale, knowing that a thriving ministry flows from a thriving team. These behind-the-scenes efforts may go unseen, yet we trust God is using them to strengthen the center in ways only He can.
The first day back was a joy to behold. Youth flooding through our doors, their laughter filling the halls, their smiles reminding us how much they missed this place. Our prayer is that God continues to use us for these young lives.
Ramzi, Vocational Program Team Leader
My focus has been on supporting our team spiritually, mentally, and physically, so they can serve the youth well. Despite our busy schedules and program demands, we always find moments of joy and fun together, remembering that many hands make the burden lighter. I also pray that the Lord brings new youth to join our programs. Above all, I hope that every student who walks through our doors encounters Jesus in every word, action, and gesture, and that His love shines through broken vessels.
Sandra, School Ministry Youth Worker
We have been praying for the School Ministry team, asking the Lord to raise up people with hearts set apart for this work. Beyond prayer, I have been seeking to understand young people’s interests, struggles, and joys during preparation. It’s inspiring to see tiny ideas from prep sessions grow into meaningful experiences, a reminder that the Spirit is leading our ministry.
I prepare my heart for this year, particularly as we intensify our outreach efforts. I hope every youth we serve experiences God’s love deeply and cannot get enough of Jesus, especially newcomers.
Every prayer, plan, and moment of preparation is part of God’s eternal work of leading young people closer to Christ. You can partner with us in these unseen moments so that every effort can bear lasting fruit.