Reflection

Over the past semester I have become familiar with Indiana Wesleyan University. More than that, I have become familiar with the people in the division of Religion and Philosophy. However, at the beginning of the semester this was not the case. When I registered for classes as an incoming freshman I was not expecting anything like what I was given. The professor that helped me choose classes came up to me as I was waiting to give my list to records and penciled in the the words “ Youth Ministry Practicum”. I didn't know what it meant but he simply said, “No big deal you will be fine.” So I went into the practicum fully unprepared for what was about to happen. I had no idea that the practicum would be as difficult as it was. I struggled for the first half of the semester with the unexpected addition to the point of exhaustion. Things had to change, I was half way through the semester and barely keeping my head above the water. In truth I was getting close to drowning. So, mid semester, I dropped a class and refocused my efforts. After this, I got caught up and started giving more attention to the practicum. I got more involved in practicum and became more reliable. In the end it was an experience I needed. I learned how to manage my time better and how to meet a deadline. It had its ups and downs, but I was glad it happened the way it did. I wouldn't do it differently because it was an enriching experience.
So, in closing, the concept of a first semester practicum can be daunting when not prepared. I personally think that an individual should not be allowed to take one until their second semester. They are enriching and help you get a better idea if ministry, but can blindside a person.

Day 10- Wrap Up

This week we really got involved with the congregation with meetings and helping with a fundraiser.

Spiritually I feel that a gained a new insight in the denomination's goings on.

Personally I leaned of church affairs.

Hrs.-
5 hrs- Fundraiser
2 hrs- Final meeting w/ Jeff
Total: 7 hrs.

Week 9- Elder's Meeting

This week we attended an elder's meeting to get a feel for the congregation's hierarchy. It was an educational experience that showed the spiritual side of the leadership after seeing the financial in the board meeting.

Spiritually it made me realize just how much the spiritual leaders in a church really do. Personlly I gained knowledge in the affairs of church business.

Hours- Youth- 2 hrs
Meeting 1 hr
Total- 3 hrs.

Week 8

This week when it rained we played there version of pin the tail on the donkey which had little to do with the donkey and more just making people dizzy and running:) It was after we had a short lesson.

Spiritually I felt the sense of fellowship in the group which was amazing and personally I felt that the youth is warming up to us.

Hours- 2 hrs.Youth Group

Total- 2 hrs

Week 7

We worked on cleaning out the churches garage with the youth and were able to interact in the midst of work which gave me a glimpse of how they would react on missionary trips.

Spiritually I found the chance to serve very rewarding and personally I felt good about helping those who are not able to do the work.

Hours- 2 hrs. Youth group

Total- 2 hrs.

Week 6- Winterjam

We took the kids to the Winterjam and saw several of the groups favorite bands. It was a great experience.

Spiritually I got to see the worship of the youth and personally I felt the presence of God at the event.

Hours- 8 hrs Winterjam

2 hrs. Youth Group

Total- 10 hrs

Week 5

I met with Jeff but missed the Ash Wednesday service due to an illness:( 

Spiritually I had a good feeling about the meeting. Personally I was a bit upset I missed the service but I'll move on.

Hours- 1 hr meeting

Total- 1 hr

Week 4

This week we discussed a music service the youth will be doing in mid to early april. They will lead the lesson and teach the older members of the congregation about new things in christian culture as well as new types of christian music. Other than the planning for that we had a standard service with sunday school and a standard youth. We did witch veggietales though which was amazing:)

Spiritually I got a good sense of where there faith is as a congregation not just the youth. Personally I saw a little of what goes into a sunday service.

Hours- 1 meeting with Jeff

2.25 hrs board meeting

2 Youth Group

Total- 5.25 hrs

Week 2- Superbowl

We met the group sunday at a youth superbowl party. After several hours of guitar hero, food, and football the group opened up a bit and started sharing about themselves. I felt that it went well and that the kids liked us.

Spiritually I feel these kids are in a good place with their faith and there is only room to grow. Personally I that we are going to get along with the youth well.

Hours-  3 hrs with youth

1 hr with youth pastor in meeting

Total- 4 hrs.

Week 1- Initial Meeting

Met with the Youth Pastor this week. His name is Jeff Brady and he is the pastor at the first christian church. Due to some complications we couldn't meet on sunday with the kids but scheduled a meeting for next sunday to get to meet the group.

Spiritually I feel that this is where God wants me to be this semester. Personally, I feel this is going to be a very rewarding semester.

Hours- 1 hr. Youth pastor meeting

Total- 1