June Newsetter

📣 June 2025 Newsletter | The Living Church of Five Mile

"Rooted in Christ. Growing the Next Generation."

JUNE WAS ALL ABOUT THE YOUTH!

This month, our church was alive with energy, laughter, and the undeniable presence of God as our youth took center stage. From Vacation Bible School to Youth Camp, we saw the hearts of our young people ignited for Jesus—and we are here for it!

🤠 VBS: “Wonder Junction” – A Rootin’ Tootin’ Good Time!

We kicked off the month with Cowboy Sunday to set the stage for VBS—and Bro. Fred and Sis. Sandy Varney definitely took home the best-dressed award (spurs and toy six-shooters included!).

Our VBS theme, “Wonder Junction: Marvel at Jesus and Live for His Glory,” turned the church into a full-blown Wild West town. Thanks to the leadership of Youth Pastors Danny & Jennifer Hutchens and a dream team of volunteers, the church transformed into an immersive experience:

• A glowing mineshaft with tracks

• Western storefronts

• Barrel racing

• And even real horseback riding!

Pastor Don called it the best VBS yet, and we’d have to agree—especially after seeing the altar filled with children worshipping on the final night.

One emotional moment came when Youth Pastor Jennifer Hutchens was brought to tears after the kids raised $1,000 for Bibles for Pakistan! The boys edged out the girls in this friendly competition, but the real victory was in their generosity.

💦 Pastor Soaker’s Wild Ride

It wouldn’t be VBS without Pastor Don and his trusty super soaker. This year, the kids turned the tables—locking him out and leaving him to face the reality of… so many kids, so little water! Rumor has it he’s eyeing a backpack-fed Gatling-style super soaker for next year. Watch out, kids. He's coming prepared.

⛺ Youth Camp: From the Wild West to the Altar

Immediately after VBS, our team shifted gears and headed to Youth Camp. Tired but passionate, these same volunteers poured into another week of ministry—and it showed.

The Sunday following camp, our altar was once again filled. This time, with our youth praying and praising not just for themselves, but for their generation. The tired eyes and aching feet were worth it all. The move of God among our youth is real.

🔥 Messages that Stirred Our Souls

We were honored to welcome Reverend Dennis Prewitt for his first time preaching at our church. His powerful word challenged us to be gate crashers—to rise up, storm the gates of hell, and reclaim everything the enemy has stolen. He encouraged us to pray, to repair, and to restore, reminding us that none of us are beyond redemption.

We also welcomed our Missions Director, Bishop Darryl Gaunce, who reminded us of God's Open Invitation. His message cautioned us about drifting too close to the world while trying to hold on to Jesus—and how quickly that can pull us right out of God’s will.

📖 For Such a Time as This

Pastor Don closed out the month with a compelling message from the book of Esther. Like Queen Esther, we have been called for such a time as this. We must rise, stand in the gap, and reach the lost while there is still time.

As Pastor reminded us:

“Prophecy is being fulfilled at lightning speed. We must be busy about the Father’s business. Our nation is counting on us.”

🙌 Thank You, Youth Leaders!

To every youth leader, teacher, counselor, and helper who gave up your time, your rest, and your vacation—we see you. And we thank you. Your dedication is shaping this next generation of believers.