Capernaum Young Life

One of the beautiful aspects of Young Life is the variety in leadership dedicated to serving specific areas. People want to help and Young Life provides a means to train and place those desires accordingly. Our area has the privilege of representing many diverse clubs – Urban ministries, alternative schools, Christian schools, and Capernaum clubs.

Our Capernaum club looks quite different than most of the “ typical” YL clubs. Unlike most clubs that operate out of middle or high schools, Capernaum YL is made up of a group of young adults with a wide range of disabilities between the ages of 18 to 30 from all over the Grand Rapids area. They meet bi-weekly in Olivet Reformed Church’ s basement.

This particular YL ministry is very visual and energetic, focusing on keeping spirits and participation high! Club is filled with music, games, mixers, crafts, and discussion. As with any YL club – an essential part of club is the talk. Capernaum leaders use their creativities and a wide range of props, videos, and puppets to help communicate the Gospel to those who attend club. The leaders also focus their energies into one-on-one time with their members, helping to fill out and discuss prayer requests and ultimately meet them wherever they are at. As one of the leaders put it, “ Most of our focus is just spent on loving these kids, making them feel special and important.” It is that investment in God’ s people that illustrates so effectively what YL is about.

And the investment and blessing is two-fold. Another leader explains, “ Us leaders often talk about how our kids are so joyful and care free, with faith like a child. For that reason I believe God works in the hearts of us as leaders — the kids are examples to US as to how simple love and joy is the root of life.”

That’ s what Capernaum club is: a place where joy is the root of life. What a beautiful example and reminder to God’ s servants.

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