Youth for Christ strives to builds relationships

By Courtney Warren

With the goal of using relational ministry to build relationships with young people everywhere, Youth for Christ (YFC)  works with local churches and other like-minded partners to introduce them to Christ and uncover God’s story of hope in their lives.

Jenny Ozier, executive director said, “‘Geared to the times, Anchored to the Rock’ is the story of the past seven decades and how the Holy Spirit motivated and empowered men and women to take the message of Jesus to young people everywhere.  With the rapid expansion of the movement, there soon became a need for leadership.  Torrey Johnson was the first Youth For Christ’s president, and Billy Graham became the first full-time evangelist.  

“From holding rallies with Billy Graham in the ‘40s, to campuses reaching students in the ‘60s, to now empowering community leaders to build meaningful relationships with young people wherever they may be,” she explained. 

Jackson, Mississippi,  is one of the oldest YFC chapters in the U.S.  Most recently Henry Murphy (HAM)  was the Executive Director.  

“He was, and I quote, a ‘Rock Star.’ He was able to lead his team to reach a multitude of students in three Jackson Public Schools middle schools through campus life ministry.  He unfortunately passed in 2019, but he will always be in our hearts.  Then, COVID hit. Ministry has been absent for over two years, so that is why it is essential we rebuild Youth For Christ,” said Ozier. 

With the main goal to get YFC ministry programs up and running in the community, the team is looking for help. 

“Our mission goals  take volunteers, which we desperately need, and funding.  With COVID on the rise again, ministry may look a little bit different. This time next year, we hope to have our Advisory Board established, grow our Campus Life Ministry and Juvenile Justice Ministry, and have a Ministry Site Director,” said Ozier. 

For more information or to get involved and bring YFC to your community or organization, contact Jenny Ozier at  [email protected], or call 601-613-4008. To volunteer, visit jlf.galaxydigital.com.