The Washington State School Shooting: A Veteran Seattle Youthworker’s Reflection

Guest post by Chris Renzelman

Most of you are aware of the recent school shooting in Washington state. In the midst of tragedy pause is always needed to assess what’s going on and what really matters. Such assessments can have positive results … this broadcast aired November 2 as a Town Hall meeting conducted by King5.com. It’s an excellent discussion with teens and professionals that provides insight and perspective.

Today is Red & White day in our state, the school colors of Marysville-Pilchuck High School. Community members lined the roadways in support of students returning to school for the first time in a week. The Seahawks hosted the football team to their headquarters and honored them with MP logo’s on their helmets and other gestures of support during Sundays game.

As a youth worker, it’s wonderful to see this broad expression of love and care for teens that’s our heart passion. Thanks to you for being faithfully on the front line. But as a youth worker even we can experience isolated thoughts that are not healthy, we too can find value in the support of others. Would you join me, as a youth worker in my fourth decade of ministry and one who has also lost a teenager to tragedy, to renew our hearts to the mission. Together let’s ….

1. Pray with students about the matters in their world & on their hearts.
2. Step into the dark corners of need with boldness & Spirit led power.
3. Review the list of people you could be teaming with for support & impact.
4. Remind yourself we have more than a job or career, we have a mission. These thoughts from Francis Chan remind us about what really matters.

Pressing on with you around what really matters.