S.H.I.F.T. stands for “Seeing Him in Frustrating Times,” and that’s precisely what we’re encouraging our Central States youth to do during this pandemic. “We wanted to give the young people a platform to express themselves about how they’re feeling and what they’re going through,” explains Pastor Karsten Rogers of Emmanuel Church in St. Joseph, Missouri.
During the program, young people join us live and share their feelings about their disappointment with graduation, what it’s like being in the home with their families and other relevant topics. Many people are exhausted. We are praying for the parents as well. This online ministry has also been blessed to have dynamic speakers such as Pastor Ndubisi Nwade, Pastor Kyle Crawford, and Chaplain Kory Douglas.
One of the most powerful programs so far was during a graduation recognition for the Central States Youth. There was a discussion with three male graduating seniors, De’Leion Whitcomb, Chris Walls, and Michael Henry. Speaking with with them, you knew their hurt and frustration was palpable. In addition to not having a traditional graduation, they also had their college plans jeopardized because they didn’t know what would happen next.
Chris shared that he was looking forward to a scholarship for track, but since his track season ended prematurely, he was unsure about the future. Hearing those personal experiences gripped the audience and brought awareness to what our young people are going through. “We’re excited for how God is blessing S.H.I.F.T., and we believe He’s going to do even greater things as we continue forward,” says Rogers.
S.H.I.F.T. takes place every other Sabbath at 4 PM CT on the Central States Conference YouTube page.
