The Newbie

Here at FYI we’re welcoming our new intern, Cody Charland.  Cody will be contributing to our blog, helping manage social media, researching, and writing for the FYI team.  We’re excited! Cody introduces himself in today’s post.

Most people seem to feel either young for their age or older than they really are. I think I feel both. I just turned 24 last month, so it’s up to you to if that’s old or young. But I mean in terms of life experience.

I haven’t had one of those lives where you almost lose your breath while listening to such a great adventurous story (so far). I wish I did. But I haven’t exactly lived in a bomb shelter either.

Last month, I moved to Pasadena from North Carolina (where I’ve never seen a bomb shelter) to attend Fuller and to get some life experience. I’ve spent my whole life in NC and I’ve known for years that seminary is what I was called to. I have a Young Life background and spent nearly the last 3 years working for a church as a youth pastor. So I know what it’s like to be both inside the walls and outside trying to bridge the gap between the “lost” and the Gospel. I’ve been through ministry burn out. I’ve been on both sides of the camp highs that give you new energy, but quickly turn into fumes. I found the newest and greatest thing, just to find out that my group hates it. I’ve been on the side that sees a student really “get it”, and I’ve seen the same students fall away three months later.

But I haven’t seen it all. In that regards, I feel young. I’m ready to see more. There are a lot of great churches in Southern California and a lot of Christ-like people leading them. I’ve been here only a short time but it all feels so fresh.

Being the intern, it’s my job to learn (as well as get coffee, copies, and blamed — just kidding). So I’ll be sharing what I’ve found, what we’re doing at FYI, and ultimately what can help YOU help students connect with Jesus.
I know what it’s like to be in your shoes. But I’ve got to be honest; they still feel pretty new to me.

©2010 Fuller Youth Institute