The Lents Church celebrated 10 years of Youth Transition with a special program on Sabbath, April 14. Current members of the youth group led out, while a slideshow and videotaped messages from former group members and leaders recalled memories from years past. The service concluded with a special prayer of dedication for the youth offered by Paul Cole, Lents pastor.

Youth Transition began in 1997 when Youth Leaders Jean Aguilar and Loren Strode felt impressed to do something special to recognize the maturation and contributions of the church’s youth. Since then, more than 80 young people have been honored as part of the annual event, including seven this year. In addition to the youth-led church service, the special weekend also traditionally includes a gym night and a Sunday brunch.

This year’s brunch featured blueberry pancakes, cinnamon rolls and Tater Tot casserole prepared and served to the youth by Lents elders and their spouses at the home of church members Dan and Marilyn Patchin. It capped a celebration that left the youth feeling very much loved and appreciated by their church family. For the adults, it also served as a reminder. “Sometimes it is hard for us ‘old folks’ to see what is happening right before our eyes,” said head elder Vern Henry. “These ‘kids’ are our biggest blessing from God, and we need to recognize that they are becoming adults.”