October 2015 Update

Why YFC?  Twenty-seven percent of American high school students admit to having used illicit drugs, 46% admit to having had sexual intercourse, and 72% admit to having consumed alcohol by the end of HS with average first consumption occurring at age 12. Students are searching for purpose and meaning in life, and I believe there is only ONE place they will ever find it: Jesus. In John 10:10 Jesus says, “I have come that you may have life and have it abundantly.”  If high school students aren’t finding life in Jesus, it isn’t because they aren’t desperately searching for it.

Setting the sails.  Access to Oak Hill High School has been freely given to YFC and the opportunities God is giving me to build relationships with parents, teachers, coaches, and students are by His grace, abundant. Every Wednesday morning for 30 minutes before school we have donuts, milk, and a community pastor or parent who comes in to share an encouraging devotional and lead prayer. This Fall we have also been hosting community-wide events called “Tailgate for the Team” before every varsity football home game where we offer free food, music, and games. These events have been providing countless opportunities to connect not just with students, but with their parents and friends, as well. What’s even more amazing to me is that the Oak Hill varsity football coaching staff has asked me to come in to speak to the team before every game this season, sharing for fifteen minutes about anything I want to regarding faith, relationships, God, football, or otherwise. Having the opportunity to lead these chapels has been very exciting and very rewarding to say the least.

Looking ahead.  I continue to pray for time and opportunities to deepen the relationships God has been providing for me at Oak Hill; quantity is exploding, but quality will take intentional time given to the hands of the Holy Spirit. I will also have the wonderful privilege of hosting a YFC Fundraiser Banquet in the high school cafeteria on the evening of Wednesday of November 18th. This will be our most important fundraiser of the year, and every dollar given will stay local at Oak Hill High School. In addition, in January we plan to start a weekly Club night in a local home to bridge the gap between searching students and local churches we are connected with.

Room for growth.  Please pray for this ministry. S.D. Gordon once said, “Prayer strikes the winning blow, ministry is just picking up the pieces.” I believe that, and I will continue to ride on the wings of your prayers. We also have a mentorship program in place to place students in relationships with qualified adults, but we stand in need of more adults to step forward to care for and empower the students of Oak Hill. Financially, God has provided approximately 62% of my financial needs through the generous contributions of many family members and friends. Donors and monthly supporters are foundational to making this crucial ministry to the searching students of Oak Hill happen.

Taylor Frank || 765-618-8418 || taylor@bigjawsyfc.org