by Meagan Bergem

   During the summer of 2010, I had the opportunity to serve at FPC as a Networker. It was a life-changing experience as I discerned my calling in youth ministry and learned from the staff at FPC. I learned the behind the scenes working of youth ministry and grew more and more into a disciple of Jesus.

   Summer Staff is a twist on this type of experience. Similarly, our hope is to call out the giftedness of these young people and witness God use them to love students well this summer. 

   The Summer Staff program is a 10-week commitment where young adults are equipped to do ministry alongside our Children's and Youth Programs. They will be developed in their leadership skills and grow in their relationship with Jesus. We are hoping you give them a great FPC welcome and demonstrate great hospitality towards them this summer. Here are some introductions to get the ball rolling...


Kingdom Kids

   Michaela Kimball: I am so excited to be doing ministry with you this summer! I was born and raised right here in Fresno and started attending FPC when I was in seventh grade. I am currently perusing a degree in Speech Pathology as well as working at a school with some amazing Kindergarteners. I am super joyful, bubbly and adventurous. I love to spend my free time outside hiking, running, skiing. If it means I get to spend time outside I will do it. I also love to play guitar, draw, write, and read books. I am so excited to experience God with you and all the kids this summer. 

   Alfred Viscarra: Hi guys, I am from the beautiful city of Sanger, California where I was born and raised. I am a long term substitute teacher for Sanger and have been teaching 5th grade this school year at Sequoia Elementary. In my free time I enjoy playing basketball with my friends from high school. I also enjoy playing ultimate frisbee with my track and field coaching staff on Saturdays. Also, I enjoy watching The Office continuously. This summer I am looking forward to working with the awesome people at FPC and helping young kids grow in their faith and having them help me grow in my faith as well. I look forward to working with the elementary staff and sharing our love for Jesus. Fun fact about me is I can quote any song or movie quote on command and use it in any conversation! 


Ignite

   Sophia Steele: I was born and raised in Fresno and grew up at FPC. I just finished my second year as a Christian Leadership major at William Jessup University. Three words I would use to describe myself are: relational, joyful, and contemplative. Some of my favorite things in life include but are not limited to Jesus (WHOOO!), flowers, coffee, board/card games, getting to know people, the beach, having long and confusing theological discussions, and the sun. Hopefully, I'll get to enjoy some of these with the Jr Highers. I am super excited to have fun with the youth at FPC this summer and to get to know God better together. I'm especially pumped for summer camp, and for all the cool relationships I'll get to build with y'all on our team! I can't wait to get to know each one of you.

   Hector Chavez: I was born and currently live in Fresno, CA with my wife Clara and 1 yr 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 getting friends and family to try new things. 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 my mentors and fellow summer staffers, while also walking alongside our Jr. High youth this summer as they deepen their understanding of who Christ is. Excited to be returning this year as a summer staffer! 


Rooted

   Mitchel Walter: I've lived and grown up in San Jose for my entire life. I recently graduated from San Jose State University with a B.A. in Communication Studies. Over the past 4 years, I've also been involved in youth ministry at my home church in both the middle school and high school ministries. I am excited to meet you all and work in the high school ministry at FPC. I'm especially looking forward to going to camp! I am thrilled and humbled that we get to be a part of students' development in their personal relationship with God. In my free time, I enjoy catching up on the latest Marvel movie, spending time with my girlfriend, getting boba with my friends, and playing Super Smash Bros with my brothers.

   McKenzie Klassen: Hello, I am from Fresno but I go to Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, AZ where I live most of the year! I will be a senior there in the fall studying Psychology with a minor in Biblical Studies. I love flowers and nature and I love to do all the DIY projects! I am looking forward to all the fun things that come along with high school ministry and just the chance to do life with people. I am so looking forward to building some sweet relationships with people this summer! A fun fact about me is I have my own business called Wildflower Dye Co. and I repurpose clothing by tie-dying them!