Thank you for investing in the mission and vision of the Center for Youth Ministry Training! God continues to do amazing things through CYMT as we impact the Kingdom one youth ministry at a time.
With 31 graduate residents working at 28 different partner churches, there is no shortage of Good News to report about what God is doing through our ministry, but here are a few things that stand out since our last investor update:

  • 12 new partner churches are excited about the things that are already happening in their youth ministries
  • Both Smithville and Carthage FUMCs have reported record numbers of youth participation since their CYMT graduate residents arrived
  • CYMT residents have led fall retreats with their youth ministries, creating space for youth to encounter God
  • Our second year graduate residents are immersed in developing strong theological foundations for their ministries with Professor Andrew Zirschky
  • Graduate residents, with the help of their coaches, have been helping youth through difficult situations including the loss of parents, divorces, and eating disorders.
  • CYMT Alumna Tess Frohock was invited to teach in Bishop Joseph Pennel’s Mission of the Church course at Vanderbilt Divinity School.
Every day CYMT graduate residents seek to faithfully share the Good News of Christ and minister to and with teenagers. They sometimes do this in big ways like fall retreats, but most often they do this in small ways as they walk with youth and their families through life.
CYMT is excited to have published three resources this fall.  You can read more about them at www.cymt.horton.webservice.team/books.
On October 2, CYMT had an Investing in the Kingdom … One Youth Ministry at a Time Fundraiser.  More than $60,000 was raised in donations and pledges that evening to support the ministry and mission of CYMT. Thank you to everyone who attended, hosted tables, and made desserts to make the night a success. A special thanks to Becky Reid for coordinating the event!

CYMT continues to gain national recognition as a leader in youth ministry education. Andrew Zirschky, our Academic Director, served as one of the leaders for the theological track at the National Youth Workers Convention this fall. CYMT continues to be a leader in the conversation of how we train and equip youth ministers for ministry.
Finally, we are excited to welcome three new members to our board: Donald Reid (BUMC), Bryant Tirrill (FPC), and Jeff Wilson (FPC).
Thank you for your support of this vitally important ministry.
Serving Christ,
Dietrich “Deech” Kirk