Next Gen Volunteer Spotlight

We are blessed with incredible volunteers on our Next Gen ministry team, and occasionally we like to highlight some so you can get to know them, too. Our first volunteer spotlight is actually a 2-for-1 special! Ted and Renee Criblez have been attending Gateway for a little over 6 years. Ted is highly involved in our youth ministry teaching our middle school class on Sunday mornings and leading a youth Life Group, and Renee is a faithful first grade teacher. Both Ted and Renee mentioned a highlight of working with young people is how open they are to the Word of God and allowing God to change them.  One of Ted’s favorite things about serving with the youth is seeing kids’ hearts change after going to Haiti or the Dominican Republic on a mission trip and recognizing how privileged we are here in America. When they are not serving or preparing to serve in the Next Gen ministry, Renee likes to play the piano and draw up house plans. Ted enjoys spending time with his grandsons, whitewater rafting, and fixing things.  When asked what she would say to someone who has been feeling a tug to serve, but who hasn’t jumped in yet, Renee says, “If anyone feels they would like to serve, they should follow through, get involved. I would love to have another co-teacher until they are comfortable enough to take a class on their own. The blessings are very real when you work with children.” Ted adds “...it takes a little time to settle into a spot that fits and there may be some adjustments - we sometimes click with different groups or people than we initially think.” We are so thankful for Ted and Renee and the passion and commitment they bring to their ministries!