On Youth Workers and Their Conventions

I recently returned from Atlanta, Georgia where I was able to experience my second National Youth Workers' Convention put on by Youth Specialties, an organization founded by Mike Yaconelli and Wayne Rice some 40 years ago.

The organization began out of a deep love for students within and without the Church and a very real felt need for ministry specifically geared to them.  Over the past 40 years, the people of Youth Specialties have worked to be innovative, in tune with youth culture, and Christ-centered.  They have sought to be a resource to youth ministers who, in some cases, are alone in forging a path into youth culture carrying the light of Christ in a real and relevant way.

This year, we had the opportunity to celebrate a man who has held youth, Youth Specialties, and especially the National Youth Workers' Convention very dear to his heart and mission, Tic Long.  Tic has stood by this organization through thick and thin for almost 40 years, and he is a true servant of youth and youth workers across the western hemisphere.   According to YS, Tic "has been president of events for just about forever [, and] he probably loves NYWC more than anyone else on the planet!" 

We celebrated Tic not only for his devoted tenure, but because this will be his last NYWC as the president of events.  Tic has been called to local church ministry and has accepted that call.  We celebrate with Tic as he steps into this new chapter of his journey with God.

Tic, I along with thousands upon thousands of ministers and students, wish you peace in your new transition, wisdom for the ministry, and strength for the journey.