Every summer, young Lakesiders gather for God Squad, Middle Grade Madness and teen ministries – experiences that help them discover God’s love, strengthen their faith and grow into the people they were created to be.
Here at Lakeside, faith comes alive in ways that children remember. They discover their God-given “superpowers” and learn how to share those gifts with the world. They sing, laugh, play and build friendships. From the “Ice Cream” song to spirited hula-hoop contests, ordinary summer moments become extraordinary memories and lasting parts of each person’s faith journey.
These are more than programs. They are Lakeside experiences that can be life-changing – moments when faith takes root, joy fills the soul, and young people discover that they belong.
Lakeside’s founders created the vision for these experiences, and today, we are called to steward that vision for the next generation. Extraordinary generosity can help ensure these transformational moments continue for years to come.
In 2027, Lakeside is launching a Youth Ministry Sponsorship Program and perpetual Endowment to ensure youth ministry remains a strong and vital part of the Lakeside experience. Lakesiders Bob and Becky Brymer are spearheading this initiative by sponsoring the first week of programming next summer.
“Children and grandchildren love these programs, which is why it is so important that we support this foundational pillar and ensure that it remains strong for generations of Lakesiders to come,” said Becky.
Bob and Becky launched the Preacher of the Week Sponsorship Program in 2011. Today, families support the Preacher of the Week through both endowed funds and annual giving. As a result, Lakeside has been able to invite inspiring preachers from around the world to strengthen the spiritual growth of people at Lakeside and far beyond.
In addition, the free-will offering being collected at the Praise by the Lake Christian music festival this September will also support youth ministry for 2027.
Over the years, God Squad, Middle Grade Madness and teen ministry have played an important role in faith formation at Lakeside. Because of the strength and longevity of these programs, many parents are now bringing their own children to the same experiences they enjoyed as young people.
Lakeside is grateful for the program leaders who have helped shape these ministries over the years, as well as current leaders Chip Richter and John and Bonnie Wilkie. Continuing to envision the future of these programs is essential to ensuring youth ministry remains a strong and vital part of the Lakeside experience for decades to come.
Lakeside and the Brymers invite the community to support children’s, youth and teen ministries through a weekly sponsorship or other gift to these meaningful programs.
“We’re thrilled to see the positive impact the Preacher of the Week Sponsorship and Endowments have made on Religious Life in Lakeside the past 15 years,” said Bob. “We’re honored to give and hoping others will join us in supporting Youth Ministry Sponsorships and Endowments, to continue growing the high-quality programs we’ve been blessed with,” said Bob.
A sponsorship gift of $2,500 provides both immediate and future support. Your generosity helps create the experiences that allow young Lakesiders to discover God’s love, strengthen their faith and grow in their relationship with God and others.
To learn more or make a gift, contact Gretchen Colon, VP of Marketing & Advancement, at 419-798-4461, ext. 246, or email [email protected].
