CCY Connect OCTOBER edition 2025

Well, the sun came up again today. I also noticed the season is beginning to change. Big surprise, right? It’s almost like clockwork - like it was planned.

Despite our best efforts to believe we are the architects of our own destinies, creation marches on with very little input from us. We plan and scheme, often working against the natural order, striving to accomplish what we believe is right or best. And yet, time and again, we fall short - tripped up by our own weaknesses, biases, and limitations. It’s a cycle that has repeated throughout history, and still, we struggle to learn from it.

But have we really lost the day?

The Bible tells a different story. In Luke chapter 21, Jesus responds to questions from His disciples about the end times. While I’m not specifically addressing the end times here, I believe His message is relevant for us today.

Paraphrased, the message goes something like this: everything that man has built will eventually pass away. Hard times will come. People will fall away. Darkness will rise. But - “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will never pass away” (Luke 21:33).

In a world that constantly shifts beneath our feet, Jesus reminds us of what is unshakable. His Word. His will. His promises.

So take heart. Love God. Follow Christ. No matter what today looks like, the day will be won.

In Christ,

Drew

I recently bought a book to use with our 1st-5th graders titled Bible Questions and Answers for Kids. This book has so many great questions with answers to help parents navigate the hard questions our kids might ask. I thought after all of the events this last week that a good question to go over was, “Where is God when I’m scared?” I wasn’t sure what the kid’s in PowerZone may have seen on the news or on social media, or even just overheard their parents talking about. A lot of horrible and scary things happened and I felt that going over this question and answer might help.

If you’ve ever heard your child ask this question, you know the weight of that question. With everything happening in our world, from storms and natural disasters to the violence and division we see on the news and social media, it’s no wonder our children can sometimes feel overwhelmed, because let’s face it, as adults, the things going on right now can be extremely overwhelming for us. Our kids hear things at school, see things online, or pick up on the worry in our voices. As parents, it can feel impossible to protect them from every fear.

But in the middle of all the bad in the world, we as Christians do not need to fear, we need to lean in to the hope we have in Christ. While we may not be able to shield our kids from every awful headline or scary moment, we can show them confidence in a God who never leaves them.

Here are a few ways to help your children navigate fear in light of recent events:

1. Remind them that God is always with us.

No matter what it is that might frighten our kids, they need to know that God never walks away when life gets hard. Joshua 1:9 reminds us: “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”

2. Teach them that God protects us.

While we can not looks our kids in their eyes and tell them that nothing bad will ever happen, we can remind them that God is our refuge. Psalm 46:1 tells us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” Even in the middle of chaos, He is the safest place for their hearts.

3. Encourage them to lean into God through prayer.

When kids hear frightening news, their first instinct may be to hide or panic. Teach them instead to pause and pray. If they hear about a school shooting, pray for the families affected. If a storm is rolling in, pray for God’s protection. When we model this, children see that prayer is not just a last resort, it’s our first response. Recently there was a horrible bus accident in the town next to us. An entire softball team was affected. Being in a small town where all kids pre-k through 12th grade go to school in the same building, we knew there was no hiding it from Landon. So at night when we pray before bed, we would pray for all of the people on the bus and their families and friends.

4. Keep God’s Word close.

God’s Word gives stability in uncertain times. Place Scripture cards around the house or memorize a verse as a family. A great one for moments of fear is Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you.” The more truth we store in our children’s hearts, the more peace they’ll carry when fear comes. Hiding God’s Word in our hearts is something I am really focusing on this semester with our kids. They are not just memorizing the scripture, but also talking about what it means and how to apply it to their lives.

5. Model faith for your children.

Our kids are watching how we respond. If they see us panic, they’ll learn to panic. If they see us turning to God, praying first, and resting in His promises, they’ll learn to do the same. The greatest gift we can give our children is not just words of comfort, it’s a living example of trusting God in the face of fear.

We cannot control the events of the world, but we can control where we turn. By reminding our kids that God is with us, protects us, hears our prayers, and speaks through His Word, and by showing them how we live this out, we equip them to face a scary world with unshakable faith.

When our children ask, “Where is God when I’m scared?”—let’s help them answer with confidence: “Right here with me.”

If you’ve been around Christ’s Church of Yukon lately, you may have noticed a new face jumping in to help, encourage, and quietly lead - meet Zack Strong, our intern!

Zack’s not new to CCY - he’s been part of our church family since 8th grade, when he first came to youth group. Though he grew up thinking he knew who Jesus was, it wasn’t until those Wednesday nights that he encountered Him personally. That experience shaped Zack’s life and led him to where he is today: a Yukon High School junior who is preparing to pursue Christian counseling as a career.

Growing up without a consistent father figure, Zack shares that he was always looking for someone to fill that gap, and he found that in our very own Chris Miller, who has mentored him with encouragement, leadership, and a steady presence. Zack says that James 5:16 has been especially meaningful to him lately:

“The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.”

As our intern, Zack is getting a behind-the-scenes look at ministry. “I didn’t realize how much goes into running a church!” he says. While he's still figuring out exactly what he hopes to learn, he’s been diving in with our youth ministry, where his natural leadership is already making an impact. Chris has noticed, and we have too.

Now for the fun stuff:

• Favorite food? Vodka pasta from Cheesecake Factory.
• Surprising fact? He starts hobbies with full force… and then drops them shortly after (we feel that, Zack).
• Dream skill to master? Preaching… or golf. Preferably both.
• Weekend vibe? Sleep in, then hang out with friends - classic teenager energy.

Zack is walking the road toward ministry, which, as many of us know, is both rewarding and difficult. He’d love your prayers for strength and perseverance as he follows this calling. If you see him around, stop and say hi. Better yet, ask him how his golf game is going - just maybe, it’ll become a long-term hobby.

Trunk or Treat at CCY – A Night of Fall Fun & Community Connection!

Mark your calendars! Trunk or Treat is happening Friday, October 24th at 6:00 PM in the parking lot at Christ’s Church of Yukon, and we want YOU to be a part of the fun!

This year, we’re teaming up with our friends at For Heaven Sake School for an exciting night filled with costumes, candy, and community. While CCY will host Trunk or Treat in the parking lot, FHS will be holding a Fall Festival indoors in the gym, complete with games and food available for purchase - all in support of their school fundraiser.

🚗 Be a Trunk Host!

We’re looking for friendly faces to decorate trunks and hand out candy. Get creative with your design - the only rule is to keep it non-scary and family-friendly. Costumes are welcome and encouraged (just keep them fun, not frightening)!

Not the decorating type? You can still help by donating candy - collection bins are available at the church.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Why We Do It

This isn’t just about costumes and candy, it’s about community outreach and creating a safe, welcoming space for families in Yukon and beyond. Whether you’re greeting neighbors, handing out treats, or just sharing a smile, you’re helping us show the love of Christ in a practical and joyful way.

Let’s make this a night to remember! Invite your neighbors, gather your candy, and get ready for an evening of connection and kindness.

🎁 Operation Christmas Child: The Season of Sharing

The Season of Sharing is just around the corner, and we’re thrilled to once again participate in Operation Christmas Child, a powerful way to bring hope, joy, and the message of Jesus to children around the world.

Every year, thousands of churches and individuals pack shoeboxes filled with toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and other small gifts. These boxes travel across the globe and are often the only present a child will receive in their lifetime. But more than that, each box becomes a tangible expression of God’s love and an open door to the Gospel.

Janet Slifer will set up the table and boxes the last week of October. Beginning Sunday, November 2nd, stop by our Operation Christmas Child display table in the Gathering Area to pick up one...or several, shoeboxes. Inside each box, you’ll find instructions and suggestions to help guide your shopping.

Once filled, simply return your completed shoeboxes to the church by Sunday, November 17th.

📦 Important Dates:

• Pick Up Shoeboxes: Starting November 2
• Return Filled Boxes: By November 16

Let’s come together as a church family and be a part of something bigger than ourselves. Whether it’s one box or ten, each gift shares the light of Christ in a dark world.

Together, we can make a difference, one shoebox at a time.

Over the next couple of months, we’re gearing up for one of our most exciting and joy-filled events of the year - our Christmas Extravaganza on Saturday, December 6th! This special day is more than just a celebration; it’s a beautiful opportunity to serve our community, share the love of Jesus, and help families experience the wonder of the season.

But we can’t do it without you.

Whether you’re a people-person, a behind-the-scenes helper, or someone with a heart for prayer or children, there’s a place for you to serve. Even if you're not available on December 6th, you can still make an impact by donating new or like-new toys, clothes, or small gifts. We will also have volunteer opportunities to sort donations during the week.

We’re collecting new and like-new toys and gift items for our Christmas Extravaganza, and we would love your help! Your generosity will bless local families and help make this Christmas season truly special.

Whether you’re picking up a few extra items during your shopping or have gently used treasures to share, here are some ideas for gifts that are practical, meaningful, and fun:

🎒 Gift Ideas for Teens

Help us bless our older youth with gifts they’ll love and use:

• Fashion Accessories – Trendy backpacks, beanies, hats, or jewelry
• Tech Gadgets – Smartwatches, Bluetooth speakers, or fitness trackers
• Outdoor Gear – Skateboards, rollerblades, camping gear
• Craft Kits – DIY jewelry, model-building, or other hands-on projects
• Sports Equipment – Basketballs, soccer balls, or other sports gear
• Electronics Accessories – Headphones, phone cases, portable chargers
• Books – Popular YA novels, graphic novels, or bestselling series
• Art Supplies – Sketchbooks, markers, colored pencils, paint sets
• Board Games & Puzzles – “Catan,” “Ticket to Ride,” Uno, Rubik’s Cubes

👪 Gift Ideas for Parents

Children will get the joy of picking out a small gift to surprise their parent or caregiver! Here are some thoughtful and affordable ideas:

• Christmas Ornaments – Festive or faith-themed keepsakes
• Candles – Holiday scents like pine, cinnamon, or vanilla
• Hand Creams & Lotions – Small sets or luxury miniatures
• Tea or Coffee Samplers – Gourmet blends in small assortments
• Mugs – Christmas, inspirational, or personalized mugs
• Notebooks & Pens – Elegant or whimsical designs
• Handmade Soaps & Bath Bombs – Scented and beautifully packaged
• Recipe Books or Cards – Holiday baking or quick-meal ideas
• Dish Towels – Holiday prints or kitchen themes
• Hot Chocolate Kits – Mixes, marshmallows, and a cute mug
• Fridge Magnets – Inspirational, funny, or photo-holding
• Keychains – Fun, meaningful, or faith-based designs
• Photo Frames – Small frames for treasured family memories

🎄 Let’s bless others with gifts that bring joy, dignity, and love this Christmas.

👉 Donations may be dropped off at the church during office hours or on Sunday's in the Gathering area.

Share our event with friends or neighbors who could use some holiday cheer. The Christmas Extravaganza is a church-wide outreach that turns our building into a joyful shopping experience where everything is free, because the greatest gift of all was freely given to us.

Let’s come together and make this day unforgettable for our community.