"...but in your hearts regard Christ the
Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a
defense to anyone who asks you for a reason
for the hope that is in you."
– 1 Peter 3:15
In an age where teens are consumed by a culture that
encourages promiscuity and promotes a
self-centered attitude and materialistic
lifestyle, students at Prestonwood are resisting society’s pull. The teens are taking
to heart a ministry outreach that is helping bolster their faith while serving others.
Based on the Scripture from 1 Peter, Difference Makers was launched by the
Student Ministry last school year for the purpose of impacting the next generation
by students themselves. Minister to Students Chris Lovell says students are
developing service projects in their schools and communities.
“Through their service to others, they are sharing God’s love in practical ways,
which results in opening a door to share their faith with the people they are
serving,” Chris said.
Last school year, about 350 high school students were involved, and this fall the
ministry is expecting even more. By ministering through Bible studies, serving at
non-profit organizations in their communities, and witnessing at school, these
students are truly “making a difference.” Parents have been greatly encouraged
by the initiative taken by the Student Ministry. Vicki Morgan, a mother of two, says
she’s grateful to see the ministry support “what we’ve always done at home.”
“My daughter has been emboldened by those in the Student Ministry who
have ‘ignited’ her personal passion to be unabashedly sold out for Jesus Christ,”
Vicki said.
One student, Sarah Evans, said she’d been ashamed of her faith because she was
one of only a few Christians at her school.
“Participating in Difference Makers really gave me an opportunity to speak
out for my faith and not be afraid,” said Sarah, now a senior at North Hills
School in Irving.
Last school year she founded RTC—Religious Topics
Club—open to students of all religions to help inform
one another of their beliefs. Sarah said she started the
club when she noticed a “sparked interest” in religion
among her friends.
“I have never seen people at my school be so open,”
Sarah said. “This has reinforced in me the fact that God
can do anything.”
Gaining his inspiration from James 1:22, Zach
Barton wanted students at Centennial High School in
Frisco to “be doers of the Word also and not hearers
only.” Zach, 17, founded “122,” a Bible study on Friday
mornings that includes worship, fellowship, and
digging into Scripture. Last school year, more than 30
students attended regularly after just a few weeks of
the launch. This school year, Zach plans for a larger
focus on evangelism at Centennial.
“It is hard to step out in the public,” Zach said, “but
when you trust God and step out in faith you can do
anything through Him.”
Wanna Make A Difference?
Call 972-820-5360 or click here for more information.
