“The evening I visited with the Young Adult Journey Group was fun.  I'm not sure what I expected, but I what I came away with was a sense of freshness.  I think some of the group members knew each other and had already formed friendships, but also there were new folks to the group.  However, you would never know it by their interaction with one another.

  As they arrived they were all just chatting and greeting one another.  Then they all found seats in the living room area, on couches, chairs and even on the floor.  They started out with a prayer (by Jon Hocker) and then they passed out some sheets of song lyrics.  Jon played his guitar while they all sang a few songs.  Then they proceeded with their lesson, which was led mostly by Melanie.  She prompted them with questions from the leader's guide as they all took part in the discussion.  What struck me was how comfortable they all were...no one seemed to "take over" the discussion; it never felt strained or like they were put on the spot to talk. 

I think most everyone in the group contributed to the discussion.  What I also noticed was how they were so focused on what they were studying/learning; they didn't get caught up on their own story or wind up on some "rabbit trail" that went way off track.  They seemed genuinely interested in what they were discussing and had obviously taken the time to read ahead and were prepared. 

They then divided into 2 groups and were given "assignments" from Melanie.  They all took the time to read the passages and share what they read; again, good discussions.  Before we knew it, they were to the end of their time.  They closed in prayer and took time to discuss the upcoming week. 

As they were preparing to leave, they were talked about going out to get ice cream...maybe Braum's, maybe Jon and Amber's house.  I was impressed by how they waited until their "learning time" was over to make plans to "play".  I'm not sure if it was intentional or not.  So, there you have it.  I'm not sure I've put into words the feeling I got from this group.  I guess it's sort of like the saying goes, whatever they're having...I want some too. I know there are lots of blessings going on within that group!!”