Teen Intern Discipleship Retreat

One of my fondest memories from adolescence is of a youth retreat I attended the summer of 2001. It was a weekend of fun, laughter, swimming, bonfires, pranks, and an encounter with God that would lead me to surrender my life to Him years later. You see it was the prophetic word that I received during a time of ministry at this retreat that ultimately led me to say "yes" to God during the most rebellious time of my life. It was the prayers spoken over me that summer that replayed in my mind while I was in the valley of decision. It was that encounter that ultimately bore much fruit and changed my life.  For this, I have the people who financially supported me and made it possible for me to attend that retreat to thank. Their investment in me has led me to where I am today. 

This year, I have the privilege, as the Teen Life Internship Director at New City Kids: Paterson, of hosting the same type of retreat for a group of 34 teens. I am excited for the opportunity to create space for the young people I serve, to be still and meet with God like I did so many years ago. 

In February, we will be hosting a 2-night discipleship retreat for the teens of our Teen Life Internship (TLI)department.  Each of these teenagers participates in an intesive, year-long, paid intership in our After School Center which fosters growth for our teens academically, spiritually and professionally. 
For many of our teens this will be an opportunity to truly encounter the presence of God for the very first time. I strongly believe that what will take place on this weekend, will impact the lives of our teens for eternity. 

Many of our teens come from underprivileged circumstances and as such it is our hope to provide ALL of our teens on staff a scholarship to go on this retreat. We are looking to raise $2500 in addition to the $1500 we have committed to offset the costs of a two night stay, all the meals, and transportation to and from for all of the teens. 

This is an opportunity for our teens to leave the inner city and experience the peace and beauty of nature (some for the very first time), while given the invitation to meet with the Creator of the universe. 

Our teens are excited and there is a buzz of joyful expectation for this weekend. 

Would you consider partnering with us, and God, in making this possible??? 

Any gift is highly appreciated, as are your prayers! 

New City Kids: Paterson is a nonprofit organization that serves at risk children and youth of Paterson, NJ. Our mission is to love kids for change by creating a community of academic, leaderships, musical and spiritual development.

To learn more about us, please visit  our website:NCK Paterson