Amy Dreke: 25 Years of Youth Ministry

I have been working with the Youth at Peace for over 25 years. Why, you ask? Because I feel called to spend time with them—growing their faith, listening to their hopes and dreams, and being a sounding board when the world gets hard.

I moved often during my own high school years and never really had the chance to be part of a large youth group. I never attended a youth gathering or went on a mission trip as a teen, so as an adult I wanted to experience these things while also walking alongside high school students. It’s a wonderful contrast to my daily work as an elementary teacher.

Seeing the growth that happens during high school—watching our youth navigate an ever-changing world—makes every moment with them special. Life is demanding enough with school, sports, extracurriculars, and home, so being a “safe place to land” is deeply important to me.

Over the years, I’ve led trips to many cities for youth gatherings, mission work, and countless other adventures. I’ve worked with hundreds of high school students, some of whom have become very special people in my life, and we remain in touch today. A few have even grown up, gotten married, had children, and returned to Peace to raise their own families. Seeing them all grown up makes every long bus ride, every challenging attitude, and every tough moment absolutely worth it.

Having my own children be part of Peace Youth—both in middle school and high school—has given me a fresh perspective on our ministry. Times are changing, and helping mentor the students on the Peace Youth Council this year has truly been a joy. Their creativity, energy, and vision for re-imagining our youth group have been inspiring to watch. I love being part of their ideas, seeing how they work together, and watching them create a space where everyone feels welcome and invited.

These formative years are so important in shaping who our youth will become. By offering grace and love, guiding them while also giving them room to make mistakes, we help them grow into the adults they are meant to be. I couldn’t ask for a better seat to witness their growth and to see how they encounter Jesus in so many ways. I love these kids deeply, and I know our future is in good hands because of them.

The support our congregation gives—to our whole church, and especially to our youth—ensures that Peace will stay strong for years to come. Thank you, Peace, for allowing me to do this for so long. It has truly been a blessing in my life.