Timothy was pastoring in the city of Ephesus when his mentor, Paul wrote a letter with instructions and encouragement for his young protegee. He gave Timothy the key to sustaining a movement that would transform his city and beyond. He wrote, “You have heard me teach things that have been confirmed by many reliable witnesses. Now teach these truths to other trustworthy people who will be able to pass them on to others.” (2 Timothy 2:2)

For nearly 50 years now, YOKE has been doing just that – raising up trustworthy people to reach the next generation. Hayden Smith is another example in this decades-long story of transformation. Hayden was shy as a middle school student and was frequently bullied. He initially went to YOKE because his mom made him, but it was the acceptance and encouragement of his YOKE Folk that kept him coming back.

“My eighth-grade year was the worst, and YOKE was the only positive thing I had at that point,” said Hayden. He vividly remembers attending club on Valentine’s Day and hearing a talk about the love of God. “My YOKE Folk taught me that I mattered to God, despite how insignificant I felt,” he recalled. “I decided that night to trust God and give my life to Him.”

By the end of eighth grade, Hayden knew that he wanted to be a YOKE Folk himself someday. He now serves as one of the team leaders at the same school he attended, helping to lead club in the same room where he met God. “Initially I thought that it would be great if I could just help one kid who struggled like I did,” explained Hayden. “Now as a leader, I see that the need – and the opportunity – is so much bigger than that.”

This incredible ministry would not be possible without your help and now you can double your impact. A group of donors who believe in our mission have generously offered to match all gifts to YOKE through the end of the year, up to a total of $40,000. Every dollar you invest in our ministry will be doubled! $50 becomes $100, $500 becomes $1,000, $10,000 becomes $20,000 and an investment of $40,000 becomes $80,000 toward the life-changing ministry of YOKE. This kind of year-end investment will propel YOKE’s ministry forward in 2024 and enable us to shine the love of Jesus even brighter.

Would you prayerfully consider how you might help us reach that goal this month? We’re so glad to have you on the team.

Sincerely,

Jonathan Haskell
Executive Director