YOKE’s mission is to impact middle school students by equipping passionate, faithful mentors to help those students discover their identity and purpose in Christ. We try to be intentional about equipping leaders in every aspect of our ministry together, but the annual Leadership Summit is one of the most effective – and fun – opportunities to do that. Our passion is rooted in the Great Commission, Christ’s charge to make disciples everywhere that we go, and in the Apostle Paul’s instructions to Timothy – to teach what we’ve learned to the next generation who will then be ready to pass it on to others.
This year than 125 YOKE Folk, staff, and guests met at Carson Springs Retreat Center in Newport. Our goal was threefold: to foster a sense of community, to provide refreshment near the middle of our school year, and to help equip our leaders, not just for their weekly service with YOKE, but for a lifetime of ministry.
Our friend, Dave McNeely, pastor of Ekklesia Church in Maryville, was our keynote speaker. The Gospel was the focus of his 3 talks entitled Gospel, Gospeled, and Gospeling. Together we gained a fuller understanding of the story of the Gospel and its impact on our own lives. With that in mind, we also discussed how we might better tell the story ourselves.
In addition to Dave, Dr. Keith Bailey of Harmony Family Center talked to us about the impact of trauma and adverse childhood experiences – or ACEs – on the kids that we serve. We also learned how to better connect with them in our programs. YOKE team members also led breakout sessions on topics such as leading talks, planning kid time, and sharing your faith.
Of course we made time for some fun as well. The inaugural YOKE Lip Sync Battle showcased the talents of our volunteers. Though the teams clamored for a winner to be announced, we enjoyed each performance equally. And the YOKE Bowling Bonanza returned this year as well. Word has it that Sarah Scheafnocker’s Farragut team had the best (bumper free) average score.
In the end, most felt better connected and better equipped. “Refreshed” was more of a question mark, but we did say it was up to them when they went to bed. “The trauma training was my favorite,” shared one leader. “I also enjoyed the speaker a lot and felt it was a unique twist on the subject, which I enjoyed. Stew and crew (worship) are also always a yes. And I love the bowling!”
Thanks to everyone who gave to help make this weekend possible including the incredible staff at Carson Springs for having us back year after year!
