Ten years ago Mike Yaconelli, the co-founder of Youth Specialties passed away, unexpectedly, tragically. The news we woke up to on October 31st 2003 was devastating. A pioneering voice in youth ministry had been called home to be with the one he loved most. I personally never knew Mike, having only met him briefly just weeks before his untimely death. I had no idea then how much his life would touch my own, but the more I learn the more I realize we all step into an ongoing story of God’s interaction with humankind. For all the crazy things Mike did and moments of intentional discomfort he made us sometimes feel, his message was simple, To live in dangerous wonder the call of Jesus and love teenagers, no matter how messy we ourselves might be. Join me today in celebrating a life that directly and indirectly shaped the ministry we have with teenagers today. Please watch these highlights from Yac’s messages over the years and consider how you are handling the baton he passed to each one of us.
Mark Matlock- President Youth Specialties