Today we’d like to introduce you to Kathy Perez and Blake Riker.
Hi Kathy & Blake, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
What makes this group so essential is not just the activities we do or the times we meet—it’s the way we grow together, grounded in the teachings of Jesus Christ, shaping our lives, day in and day out, to be the best we can be. Imagine a young person—lost, maybe struggling with questions about identity, purpose, or feeling alone. The world is loud, full of distractions and pressures, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This is where our youth group comes in. Through fellowship, love, and guidance, we become a family. We stand by each other when times are tough, and we celebrate together in moments of joy, always centered on the unwavering foundation of Christ’s love. Every day, each of us makes a commitment not just to show up but to show up with purpose. We share stories, struggles, and victories. Through Bible study, we gain wisdom; through prayer, we find peace; and through service, we learn the value of selflessness. When one of us is hurting, the group surrounds them with encouragement. When one of us succeeds, we all share in that joy. In this youth group, we’re never alone, because we have each other and, most importantly, we have God guiding our path. Our leaders work tirelessly, planning lessons and activities that teach us not only about Scripture but about how to live those words in our everyday lives. They remind us that faith is not just something we profess with our words but something we live through our actions. Every lesson, every song, every shared laugh brings us one step closer to understanding what it means to walk with Christ, to embody His kindness, strength, and courage in everything we do. Being part of this youth group is not just an activity—it’s a calling. It’s a chance to become the person God intends each of us to be, and to help each other along the way. Every meeting, every conversation, every prayer is a step toward becoming kinder, more compassionate, and more faithful. Through Christ, we are not just a group; we are a family, essential to each other’s growth, striving daily to build each other up in faith and love. So, when we look back, we’ll see how this group shaped us, how it prepared us to face the world with unshakeable faith. And as we move forward, we carry the lessons, the friendships, and the faith that will guide us for the rest of our lives.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Our youth group has seen its share of obstacles and challenges. Life is full of moments that test us—trials that could shake our faith or make us doubt our purpose. Sometimes, the struggles come from within: fear, insecurity, or the pressure to fit in. Other times, they come from the outside: difficult family situations, school stress, or even the overwhelming noise of a world that often pulls us away from God. But it’s through these challenges that our youth group truly becomes a place of strength and growth. Each struggle we face, whether big or small, is an opportunity to lean on each other and on Christ. When one of us is burdened with doubt or fear, the group steps in, praying together, listening, and reminding each other of God’s promises. In a world that can feel isolating, our group becomes a sanctuary—a safe place to voice struggles without fear of judgment. One of the hardest things we face is the temptation to follow the crowd. Society offers shortcuts, easy answers, and distractions that make it tempting to stray from our faith. But through honest conversations, accountability, and encouragement, we help each other stay rooted. We remind each other that true strength and fulfillment come from walking the path Jesus laid out for us, even if it’s not the easiest path. Another challenge is simply keeping faith strong in difficult times. There are days when prayers seem unanswered, when loss hits hard, or when it feels like our faith is on shaky ground. In those moments, our youth group becomes a lifeline. Together, we learn that God’s plan is bigger than our understanding, that faith isn’t just about the good times but about trusting Him through the storms. We encourage each other to hold on, even when the journey is tough. The journey isn’t easy. But each obstacle makes us stronger, both as individuals and as a group. By facing these challenges together, with Christ at the center, we’re learning not only to overcome but to grow into people of resilience, compassion, and unwavering faith. Through every trial, our youth group stands firm, a reminder that we are never alone and that, with God, every challenge can be overcome.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
As high school students, we’re not only balancing classes, exams, and part-time jobs but also taking on the responsibility of running our youth group. Navigating the real world isn’t easy, but it’s our faith and commitment to each other that drives us. We specialize in creating a safe, welcoming space where everyone can be themselves and grow closer to Christ. We’re known for our genuine support and the way we uplift each other, especially when life’s pressures feel overwhelming. What we’re proud of most is how we stay united and we live out our faith in everything we do, from volunteering in our community to hosting events that spread love and positivity. What sets us apart is our deep bond; we aren’t just a youth group but a family, showing others that young people can make a real difference when we stand united in faith and purpose.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
In a youth group, the most important quality for success is often effective communication. Being able to share ideas, listen to others, and foster open dialogue creates a supportive environment. This encourages participation, builds trust, and helps everyone feel valued, ultimately leading to a stronger, more cohesive group. Other important characteristics include empathy, leadership, and adaptability, but strong communication ties them all together.
Contact Info:
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