CENTRAL STATES CONFERENCE
Central States Conference S.H.I.F.T.
S
.H.I.F.T. stands for “Seeing Him in Frustrating Times,” and that’s precisely what we’re encouraging our Central States youth to do during this pandemic. “We wanted to give the young people a platform to express themselves about how they’re feeling and what they’re going through,” explained Pastor Karsten Rogers of Emmanuel Church in St. Joseph, Missouri. During the program, young people join us live and
share their feelings about their disappointment with graduation, what it’s like being in the home with their families, and other relevant topics. Many people are exhausted. We are praying for the parents as well. This online ministry has also been blessed to have dynamic speakers such as Pastor Ndubisi Nwade, Pastor Kyle Crawford and Chaplain Kory Douglas. One of the most powerful programs so far was during a graduation recognition
Courtesy Central States Conference
S.H.I.F.T. offers a platform for youth to discuss their emotions and vent their frustrations about recent struggles. Helpful speakers also join to uplift and offer encouragement.
12 OUTLOOKMAG.ORG JULY/AUG 2020
for the Central States Youth. There was a discussion with three male graduating seniors, De’Leion Whitcomb, Chris Walls and Michael Henry, whose hurt and frustration was palpable. In addition to not having a traditional graduation, they also had their college plans jeopardized because they didn’t know what would happen next. Chris shared that he was looking forward to a scholarship for track, but since his track season ended prematurely, he was unsure about the future. Hearing those personal experiences gripped the audience and brought awareness to what our young people are going through.
“We’re excited for how God is blessing S.H.I.F.T., and we believe He’s going to do even greater things as we continue forward,” said Rogers. Brittany Winkfield is communications director for the Central States Conference.
S.H.I.F.T. takes place every other Sabbath at 4 pm CST on the Central States Conference YouTube page. bit.ly/CSCYouTube Channel
