by Meagan Bergem
Director of Junior High Ministries
I was drawn to FPC because of the warm reception I received as a summer intern working with youth as a Networker (2010). My summer in California shaped the way I understood my call to full-time ministry and even opened doors for me to relocate to the west coast after graduating college. Eight years later, it is with great joy that I get to be a part of equipping and leading the next generation! We encourage you to find ways to invite them into your homes, lives and hearts, make room for them and see how God may grow you through them.
These students are a visible reminder that there are people in our midst who are in need of an invitation to grow deeper in community here at First Pres. As we have the “Connect Time” between services this summer (9:35am-10:10am), be intentional about showing up, being open to meaningful conversations, asking good questions and enjoying the significance of our church community by becoming people of warm hospitality.
Kingdom Kids Children’s Ministry (Pre-School to 6th Grade)
Amelia Sanders:
Përshëndetje! I'm from Clovis, California, although I've recently returned from living in Erseka, Albania. I am so excited to be one of the summer staffers! I am looking forward to challenging kids in their faith and seeing what we can find out about God together. My free time is usually spent reading, writing, praying, exploring, learning languages, or making music with my voice, flute, or ukulele. A crazy fun fact about me: I made a travel quilt for myself using airline blankets I took from my flights. (Emily Hartsell helped me fit them in my backpack.)
Emma Willis:
I grew up in Fresno and am a Senior at Fresno State studying Child Development. I like to hike and read in my spare time. What I’m most looking forward to this summer is sharing Christ’s love with the kiddos through my actions and words and discipling them! One fun fact that I always share is that I can’t feel my chin and bottom lip so please tell me if I have food on my face because I don’t know it’s there most of the time!
IGNITE Jr. High Ministry (7th & 8th Grade)
Sheimeka Royster:
Hello Fresno Presbyterian Church Family! I am from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, home of the Pittsburgh Steelers. I am a graduate from Edinboro University with a bachelors in Criminal Justice and I plan on attending law school in the near future. In my free time. I enjoy watching funny movies, cooking & trying new foods, shopping, spending time with family, working out, and last but not least; I absolutely love reading!
It is truly a blessing and honor to be able to come and celebrate the gospel with you and share God’s word! I excitedly look forward to fellowship and spiritual growth that comes from learning not only about who you guys are, but also learn about who I am in Christ. Fun fact: I am terrified of heights!
David Steffen:
I was born in Goshen, Indiana and raised right here in Fresno. My family and I attended a Mennonite Church where I was very active in the youth group all throughout junior high and high school. I attended Fresno Pacific University, where I graduated with a BA in Contemporary Christian Ministries, while continuing to volunteer with my home church's teens. After that, I worked as a youth director for a small church in Caruthers. This year, I have just finished the Pink House and I'm working at my home church managing the food pantry, preparing to become a substitute teacher, and excited to work at First Pres over the summer with junior high students. In my free time, I enjoy reading and video games. I'm especially excited this summer to become a part of First Pres and the mission they have in downtown Fresno. I'm looking forward to meeting you all!
ROOTED High School Ministry (9th-12th Grade)
Annie Johnson:
I am SO excited to be working with the high school students this summer! I was born and raised in Fresno and grew up coming to First Pres and was actively involved in the youth programs. My grandparents attended First Pres and my parents are active members. After graduating from Clovis West, I moved to North Carolina to attend High Point University. I graduated from High Point in 2016 with a Bachelors in Human Relations with a focus in nonprofit leadership. After graduating I moved back to California for work. I have done fundraising and PR for the Central Valley Community Foundation and Ronald McDonald House Charities. Currently I am enrolled at Fresno Pacific University to get my teaching credential for Mild/Moderate Special Education.
This summer I am looking forward to getting to know the students. I am excited to learn and grow alongside them in their walk with the Lord. Some interest of mine include running, hiking, camping, cooking and baking, traveling, coffee, and spending time with family and friends. A fun fact about me is that I have run in 5 half marathons. Or at least I think it is fun!
Hector Chavez:
I was born and currently live in Fresno, CA with my wife Clara and 2 month old son Samuel Sebastian. I am a member of Bethany Inner-City Church as well as their youth director. My favorite two things to do are traveling and eating new foods. One fun fact about me is that I was in the Army for 6 years and have now become a missionary here in Fresno's Lowell neighborhood. I am looking forward to learning from our mentors and walking along side High school youth as they deepen their understanding of who Christ is.
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