Ashlee Schneider began “attending” Trinity as an infant over 20 years ago. So did her husband, Kevin. The two “second generation” Trinity members, who have two young sons of their own, have come full circle. As co-leaders of Trinity’s youth ministry, which serves both junior high and high school students, they’re now guiding a new generation.

As a child, teen and young adult at Trinity, Schneider spent her time assisting with the infants and toddlers, preschool, Summer Arts Festival and helping with setup and tear-down at various events. But it was her own time in youth ministry that led to her current calling.

“I was greatly influenced during my time (in youth ministry) by my youth leaders, and it caused me to draw nearer to God,” she explained. “In turn, I wanted to do the same thing for other girls, and other students and set an example for them.”

Outside the youth group, Trinity’s women also made a positive impact. “There are so many women at Trinity that have made a tremendous impact on me spiritually that I couldn’t point out just one, but I am so thankful for them!” she said. “My husband, Kevin, also has had a huge spiritual impact on me, he constantly spurs me on toward Christ and keeps me accountable.”

1 Timothy 4:12 is a reminder to her that, while she is still young, it is important to take her spiritual life, and that of those she leads, seriously. “This verse has always guided me and inspired me to make wise decisions and set an example for others even though I am young. I can still make a difference,” she said.

Schneider noted that while the youth ministry isn’t facing any specific challenges at the moment, they continue to relish the support of the TBC body.

“Help us by praying for us as leaders and for the students. Help a student by helping them fundraise for camp or buying coffee at our youth stand,” she said.

Beyond financial needs, it’s important for students to find emotional support from TBC members, including those outside their demographic.

“You don’t need to be a leader to talk to the students,” Schneider explained. “I had older women week in and week out who would check in on me. That just did it for me; having someone to be a listening ear. Even though I probably talked their ears off, it meant so much to me.”