Kevin Pike Apprenticeship Blog #12

 Sicm in Seattle 

    Hello everyone! Hope y'all are doing well! We just got back from our trip to Washington, the apprenticeship is wrapping up, and summer is almost here. Things are getting wild.

    SICM Trip:

    So for those unaware, SICM (Student Institute of Campus Ministry) is a trip that we take to Bellingham, Washington with a select few students that we believe have shown potential with leadership qualities. I also had the honor of joining them on the trip which was also my first time. For a full week, we listened to lectures about how to evangelize on campus, lead quality small groups, be a spiritual leader and much much more! I got to spend some great time with my Collin guys as we got to live together for a week in a house goofing around and getting to know each other better. Here are some pictures from the trip:

Class Update:

    We have one more Elmer Gantry class and then that's the last class of the apprenticeship! One of the main themes of the book, Elmer Gantry, has been about false prophets. False prophets point people to themselves instead of pointing people to Jesus. They want the fame and glory of being a celebrity, but that is counter to how Jesus did his ministry. That is something that it is very easy for pastors to fall into and we've been learning how to combat that temptation. I am very thankful to be a part of a ministry group that is proactive in trying to weed out sins such as pride and ego. 

    End of the Year TNF:

    Our last TNF (Thursday Night Fellowship) of the school year was on May 4th and we did a Tacky Tourist party! It was such a great way to end the year, having all of our students dressed up in silly outfits, including the staff. We had karaoke, limbo, and amazing grilled chicken cooked by one of the students parents. I am super thankful for the students that we had and it is sad to see them go. We will be starting our Summer TNF series soon, which includes all campuses that are a part of FOCUS. Here are some pictures from the party:

    Your donations have played a pivotal role in facilitating numerous opportunities for students to connect and form meaningful relationships. Through events, gatherings, and activities, we have witnessed the transformative power of community firsthand. Students who once felt isolated or adrift have found a welcoming space to share their journeys, support one another, and forge lifelong friendships. It is truly remarkable to witness the positive impact that our ministry has had on the lives of these young individuals. Together, we have created an environment that fosters personal growth, spiritual exploration, and genuine connections. Thank you so much!

Prayer Requests:

    I ask that y'all pray for the students as they head into the summer. It is easy for them to lose ambition and stray from pursuing God as adamantly as they were during the semester. Prayers regarding my fundraising for this next year, that I get to my fundraising goal, I am currently at 44%. Prayers to open the hearts of the students coming to campus next semester, that they will be eager to seek community and Jesus. Also, for my uncle with his cancer and that it is healed.