Gulf States welcomed the latest addition to its team on July 15, 2020. Josue Sanchez recently graduated from Andrews University and was living in the Chattanooga, Tenn., area. His ministry experience includes time as a youth pastor in the Florida Conference, and as a youth specialist for a juvenile center in Michigan. There, he mentored and monitored at-risk youth, ages 11-18, who had been arrested, and helped them manage feelings, actions, and impulse control in healthier ways. Sanchez reached out to Cary Fry, vice president for pastoral development for Gulf States, to inquire about pastoral district openings. When Fry realized his passion and experience in youth ministry, Fry told Sanchez on their phone call that there might be a better fit in the Conference for him than district pastoring, as Conference youth director.
Sanchez was elated with the news of the opportunity, and made plans to interview remotely. Following the successful interview, Sanchez visited both the office and Camp Alamisco. Sanchez was able to meet the summer camp youth staff, and quickly formed a bond with them. Later, upon hearing that Sanchez was officially offered the position, the camp staff erupted in applause during a lunch break at the camp. He was eager to get right to work and join the team for summer camp at Camp Alamisco.
Sanchez brings another vital component to the youth director position; he is fluent in English and Spanish. Gulf States has a large percentage of active Hispanic youth. His ability to speak both languages will help minister to all churches and youth groups in the territory.
Sanchez and his wife, Steffy, are expecting their first child in August. They are looking forward to showing young people that God is with them no matter what, in hard times and in good, and that He wants to be their constant companion and most dependable friend.
Gulf States | August 2020
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