What a Weekend!

Randy’s October 2009 Update

YOU CAN’T CAN HANDLE THE TRUTH:

Imagine standing in front of eight of your peers and finishing the statement:

“The truth I don’t want you to know about me is…”

How would you complete that sentence?  How would you feel being that vulnerable with other people?

That was how we kicked off an intense men’s retreat weekend, I recently co-facilitated, for seven 20something leaders.  All weekend the retreat participants shared vulnerably and the retreat became incredibly redemptive!

QUOTES FROM THE WEEKEND:

 

“That was the most transformational experience I’ve ever been part of…This weekend was deeply transformative for me.” – Andy Tucker

 

 

“I have been noticing a big difference in myself and my relationships.  I feel like I am able to love without forcing it.  I feel a lot of strength and passion as well.  The vulnerability everyone showed was amazing.  I was shocked.  It was obviously life-changing for all of us.” – Scotty

 

“I believe what happened has changed me…SET ME FREE from the bondage I was in emotionally.  I was reluctant to face that pain inside of me, but with the group’s encouragement I believe something transformational happened.  I think we all saw the power of God working itself out as we confronted truth and love.” – Nick Rode

 

“I was extremely impressed.  Men who are willing to do what it takes to grow and make a positive impact in their world get much honor in my book.  I spent the weekend with eight such men and I can think of NO other way I would have rather spent my time.  Those were holy and special moments that I will treasure.  I saw a lot of honesty.  I saw a lot of strength.  I saw a lot of courage.  I saw a lot of gold.  Much love to Randy for cultivating such a group.” – Erik Racine (co-facilitator of the weekend)

 

WHY THIS MINISTRY IS IMPORTANT:

Incredible things are happening in this ministry!  It’s so exciting being a part of the amazing work God is doing.  And it appears to be very needed.

A recent study showed that only about 14% of the Y-generation (individuals born approximately between the late 70’s and the early 90’s, totaling over 70 million people in the U.S.) currently attend church.  The majority of individuals within the Y generation say they have a spiritual interest.  They simply are not interested in what “organized religion” is offering.  (Hmmm. I’m often not very interested in what “organized religion” is offering either.)  What’s the Church doing about this drastic decline?

Other studies show that one of the most effective means of spiritual growth is having a spiritual mentor.  If that’s true (and I believe it is from personal experience), how do we equip more people to be spiritual mentors?  And meet people in the Y – generation right where they are at?

 

THE HOPE AND MISSION OF THIS MINISTRY:

I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to pour into young leaders of the Y-generation who will lovingly pass on what they have received.  That is the hope and mission of this ministry.  To leave a legacy of love by holistically developing next generation leaders with love and for love, helping them discover and realize their unique redemptive potential in this world.

The 28 young leaders I’ve had the honor of mentoring this year have incredible potential.  They are amazing!

 

MEET THE LEADERS WHO ATTENDED THE RETREAT:

Nick Rode is a high-school guidance counselor and the leader of a Fellowship of Christian Athletes (basketball) group at his high school.  Nick has an amazing desire to pour into high-school students at such a critical time in their lives.  With depression and suicide rates on the rise, I’m glad Nick is in a high school, extending God’s love and hope.  Students and parents notice a difference in him.

 

Andy Tucker is currently passing on the legacy by effectively mentoring three leaders in their twenties, two of whom are leading community groups within the Y-generation.  Andy’s a great blend of strength and tenderness.  He loves people well and inspires them to grow – that includes me!

 

 

Scotty is leaving a lucrative job and following a call back to Africa in October.  Scotty will be spending a year (possibly more) running projects that will provide opportunities to share God’s love through actions and words.  Read about Scotty’s initial trip and current updates at Scotty’s blog .  Scotty has many fascinating stories and some awesome photos (Check out the fun one on the left!).  It’s definitely worth a visit.

 

Mike Belke is also willing to sacrifice and leave behind his job, family, friends, and security to follow the leading he feels from God.  He and his wife will be moving to California at the end of the year, where his wife, Christina, will be doing an internship program at Mosaic Church (where Erwin McManus is pastor).  I look forward to seeing what the future holds for this amazing, surrendered couple.

 

Gabe Strom is mentoring individuals in the area of social media.  Through speaking engagements and one-on-one coaching, Gabe continues to incorporate and pass on the spiritual lessons he has learned through our times together.  Gabe is an incredibly dynamic, inspirational, and influential leader who is making a difference in the business world.

 

Troy Creamer continues to have amazing breakthroughs.  People around him have been encouraged to take steps on their own journeys just by watching the changes in him and hearing him enthusiastically share what he has been learning.  Troy has been a wonderfully supportive cheerleader of this ministry.

 

Jeff Leslie has led a 20something missional community hub and may lead another with his new wife.  I don’t regularly meet with Jeff, but was thrilled to have him on the weekend.  He is a great man with remarkable strengths.  Thumbs up, Jeff!

 

 

WILL YOU PARTNER WITH ME?:

The call to “make disciples” within the Y-generation appears to be more urgent than ever.

Will you partner financially with me in this ministry? I need your help and I believe you will be blessed through giving.  An added benefit: contributions are tax deductible!

Thank you so much for joining me on this amazing journey.

Contact me at randy@legacyshepherding.org with any questions.

In His Love,
Randy