L.I.T. Ministries, June Newsletter 2025
Campbell’s Story of Bold Faith by Kelli Statton
Campbell, who is going into 9th grade, has been discipled through L.I.T. and has been on the mission trip every year since she was in 5th grade. In that short span of time, she has become a leader in the Kids' and Youth Ministries at her church. She has led several of her friends and other kids to Christ, serves as Preschool Worship leader, continues to bring friends to church every week (more than any other youth in her church), and has now transitioned to be a mentor to L.I.T. kids. Her heart leans toward missions, and she sees soccer, swimming, basketball, and school as opportunities to share the Gospel. She has hopes of one day going on an international mission trip. Campbell has a passion for Jesus and a heart for those who have not heard the Gospel, which makes her a powerful Christ-follower.
From Zoom to the Nations: L.I.T. Kids Share Jesus in Peru by Kelli Statton
L.I.T. kids had an opportunity to share Jesus with children in Quito Arma, Peru, via Zoom. My daughter, Katelyn, and a team are leading discipleship experiences for Christians there, teaching kids the stories from The Gift book, and sharing the Gospel with unbelievers. Quito Arma is a village with varied beliefs—a mixture of Catholicism and Incan mysticism. In preparation for teaching, the kids learned how to introduce themselves in Spanish and were given the opportunity, using a translator, to share with the children in Peru the miracles of Jesus. It was a chance for them to be, in Katelyn's words, “international missionaries” while on Zoom. The L.I.T. kids were even asked tough but deep theological questions from the children there and challenged to find and be able to answer them. Lakeshore kids were so thankful for the opportunity to do “missions” outside of the mission trip, especially to a different country, and it offered them an important training on international missions and language barriers. I'm sure it will be a moment they cherish forever and the catalyst for mission work in youth and adult ministries!
“Raising a Generation of Disciple-Makers!” by Dr. Clint May
It’s been an incredible joy to witness what God is doing through Lakeshore Baptist Church! Under the passionate leadership of Children’s Minister Kelli Statton, their ministry is raising up young disciples who, in turn, are boldly making disciples themselves. This reflects the very heartbeat of our mission—seeing children come to know Christ, fully surrender to Him, and walk in daily obedience. It’s powerful to see these kids embrace their new identity in Christ and step confidently into their God-given purpose, both in the church and as a light to the nations!
Preteen Ministry: Why, What, How? by Russ Zacek
Why Preteens Matter
Preteens (ages 10-13) are a hidden treasure in the church, often overlooked in the gap between children and youth ministries. As churches prioritize kids’ programs (infancy to 5th grade) and youth groups (6th-12th grades), preteens can feel disconnected. Elementary ministries feel “babyish” to 4th and 5th graders, while youth groups intimidate 6th and 7th graders with older teens’ content and dynamics. This gap risks losing preteens’ engagement as they seek belonging elsewhere—in friend groups or secular activities.
Yet, preteens are uniquely positioned to transform the church. They possess four powerful traits: a hunger for God, availability, flexibility, and purity. Unlike older demographics shaped by cultural scars, preteens are untainted, eager to learn, and ready to serve. Their openness to the gospel and sense of purpose make them a vibrant force for spiritual growth. Read full blog...
Praises and Prayer Requests
Praises
For the completion of our international training resources
For God’s continued provision for L.I.T.
Prayer Requests
For our mission trip to Norman, Oklahoma—Download prayer sheet below:
For the expansion of Leaders In Training (L.I.T.) in the United States—It is our passion to reach and disciple thousands of preteens across the U.S.
For preparation for our Zambia trip, September 12-24—We will be spending twelve days in travel and ministry.
For wisdom as we expand the ministry worldwide—We are currently in the process of translating six languages, three within India itself.
