a note from Gordon

Dear Team YA:

I send this E-Mail in order to bring you up to date on my attitude about the reunion in 09. The inter- action on line has been amazing, especially thru FACEBOOK. The time period of the 70's and early 80's when we were in ministry together was a unique time for all of us and that period created a special bond between us.

However, Dr. Bob Jones Sr. said "Reminiscing is a sign of growing old." Now I am not only not willing to admit that 71 is old, but I would desire that our time together is much more than simply remembering the past but that it become a time of revival, recommitment, visionary thinking, reconnecting, planning together for the future and most of all encouragement. Collectively we have a lot of power and influence. I am sorry that it took us so long to do this thing but God is soverign and His timing is not ours. I am sure that the Devil wanted to bury the YA movement but he has failed. YA is alive and well!!

I would also like to address the fact that Youth Aflame became a legal non-profit ministry via Youth Alive. If Thomas Road agrees I want to change our name to Youth Alive/ Youth Aflame so that we can function as a legal identity. I will keep you informed on this. Jerry Jr. is on our side so I think it will not be a problem.

I want to thank all of you who have offered advice and ideas to Sheila relating to the reunion. I would much rather have your input as to what you think will work than just mine. All I want is one good shot at you all!!

Now, a word for any of you folks who may have feelings of failure either personally, spiritually, or in ministry effectiveness. No one is interested in checking up on anyone or evaluating you in any way. We are family, a team, and our fellowship is long overdue. COME AS YOU ARE. NOT ONE OF US HAVE BEEN DEVOID OF TROUBLE

I want to ask your indulgence in not keeping up with all the Facebook program. The numbers are becoming overwhelming. I will always confirm all contacts but may not get back with you. We are still operating camp.

I want to say that your Bio sketches are very important. What you are doing is significant to all of us. What you have been doing is amazing but there will not be enough time at the reunion to share it all publically.

Finally, someone on line mentioned a love offering for Dottie and I. Forget it! All of your 50th anniversay cards and gift certificates were more than enough. We feel that your faithfulness through the years is all the show of love we need. What I do propose is that we create a YA mission fund that we can build, perpetuate and make available to worthy YA projects. Let me know what you think of the idea. I will keep you informed on this project.

Love you all and pray for you every day,

Gordon

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