We count Youth Specialties as a treasured partner. Since I grew up and spent my early years in youth ministry in San Diego, I have felt extra close to the great staff at YS and count them as friends. I even had a former YS staffer as my roommate for a few years.

Today Tic Long and Mark Matlock at YS made the announcement that Tic is leaving YS to serve as the executive pastor at Journey Community Church in La Mesa/San Diego. Here’s a 6 minute video with the two of them (and a Burger King crown - how’s that for a teaser?):

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1g2psV85WAA

When Tic told me this last week, I told him that I was both bummed and excited. Bummed because I’ll miss interacting with him in the context of YS, but excited because I am excited for this role for Tic and also because I have great respect for Mark Matlock, who will be taking over as grand poobah/executive director for YS. Mark’s been involved in our Deep Justice research and has a deep love for research and deeper youth ministry.

I’ve been praying for the YS staff this week and ask you to join with me in praying for God’s wisdom as they move forward to a new chapter.