40 explore ministry call at Discovery Zone

By Rachel L. Toalson
Staff Writer
More than 40 students explored their calls to ministry Nov. 10 during this year’s Discovery Zone at The Loft Coffeehouse in Spring Branch.
“This (event) is about encouraging you to know that God is calling girls and guys alike, men and women,” said the Rev. Rusty Freeman, Southwest Texas Conference youth ministries director.
Kelly Seale and Cori Bird, both 15-year-olds from Boerne, attended this year’s event for the first time. Both said they hoped to get more information about areas of ministry to which they are hearing a call.
“I want a better understanding of the opportunities that are out there for me,” said Kelly, who is considering youth ministry.
Cori said, “I want insight into what it’s like to be on the mission field.”
She said she had dreamed about going to Cambodia, but she’s not entirely sure what she’s supposed to do there.
Begun in 2001, Discovery Zone is designed to help young people 12 to 22 explore their call to ministry.
Freeman said Discovery Zone—and other discipleship events for youths throughout the year—help reach young people with the message of the Gospel and equip them for ministry.
“We must be pouring our time and resources into endeavors like Discovery Zone, which helps develop future clergy of The United Methodist Church,” he said.
The Nov. 10 gathering began with worship and provided information sessions about worship, youth ministry, mission work and colleges, among other topics.
“You can potentially have an impact on hundreds, maybe thousands of people,” Freeman told participants.
The Council on Youth Ministries and the Board of Ordained Ministry jointly sponsor Discovery Zone.