Impact Honduras

Imagine, if you will, traveling up the side of a Central America mountain in a Toyota 4runner. The only road is actually an old river bed, but that doesn’t matter because you are on the adventure of a lifetime. Upon arrival in this remote village, it doesn’t take much to realize that traffic is rare. The people run to see what the commotion is about and stand wide-eyed as the “gringos” unload. We had come to visit the site where a new church will be built, and we see the people clearing the land by hand with machetes. The pastor is an 18 year old young man who is receiving his degree at the PCG Bible Institute a couple of hours away. He is full of zeal for the Lord and passionate about leading his people to Jesus!

Now, journey with me to another village not too far away from there; where we have come to share our stories and testify to the amazing healing power of our Savior. As the service starts, the room fills with women who have suffered unimaginable acts in a culture that has stood silent on such matters. While our stories of hope begin to unfold, the Holy Spirit unravels the years of pain that has been inflicted. From young to old we are privileged to see the divine rewriting of their stories. To see firsthand the reality of Beauty for Ashes is something that has an eternal impact.

A couple of hours from these villages is a community tucked away on the side of a mountain where God is moving. The Pentecostal Church of God Bible Institute is located on a little piece of heaven. To see the stories that are being written and changed in this place that will literally reach across a nation stirs an undeniable fire. You don’t have to walk far from the campus to hear the ringing laughter of children. Our school is full of young leaders being given a unique opportunity to get a Christian-based education in an impoverished country. As in any culture, their vigor for life is contagious and a good reminder of why we were created.

Even as I sit remembering these stories and the forever IMPACT that was made in my life through them, there is a verse in Proverbs that comes to mind. King Solomon wrote in Prov. 11:25 “The generous will prosper; those who refresh others will themselves be refreshed.” The inspiring fire that’s caught, the hope that’s brought, and the difference that’s being made all combine into an awesome opportunity to refresh and be refreshed. These stories have just skimmed the surface of what one can experience on a Mission Adventure to Honduras.

Are you ready to GO?

GO with Impact to Honduras July 31- August 8th

Visit www.impactym.com to download your application TODAY!

The Untold Story

It’s here! 2011 has come flying in and with it the opportunity to forever change your life and impact the world! We are going to take some time over the next few weeks to tell the stories of lives covered with the fingerprints of God and the ones He sent to touch them, but every life is a story. You have a story; your grandma has a story; the Bible is full of stories of men and women of God who stepped out in faith and forever changed history! One of the saddest things, though, is a story unlived.

In Eph 2:10, it tells us “For we are God's masterpiece. He has created us anew in Christ Jesus, so that we can do the good things he planned for us long ago.” We were created as a masterpiece with a story to live! We never know what kind of an impact He wants to be made in someone else’s story by us stepping up to live ours. Has your story been impacted by someone taking the risk to reach out and touch you? What are the untold stories that lie ahead for you and others?

You are invited to join us in changing the stories in the lives of people around the WORLD! Whether you go on one of our adventures in the States or travel with us to a foreign country, I guarantee you will have the opportunity to look back at the end of the year and know that you touched someone’s life. The joy on the faces of children in the Appalachians who receive Christmas, the tears of a woman who has just experienced the healing hand of God in Ethiopia, and the salvation of a young man who found hope in Haiti are just a few of the examples of how God changes the world through people “doing their part.” Please pray about taking the time to GO with us in 2011 to make an IMPACT!

For a complete list of 2011 trips OR to download your Impact Missions Adventures TRIP APPLICATION go to www.impactym.com today!

7 Observations About Generation Y (Millennials born 1984-2002)

Observation #1: They Want to Belong Before They Believe.

Their basis for making decisions is more relational than logical. If you hope to get them to embrace an idea-embrace them first.


Observation #2: They Want an Experience before an Explanation.

They want to do or see something. They want action and interaction. So instead of asking, “What do I want to say?” we should ask ourselves, “How can I say it creatively and experimentally?”


Observation #3: They Want a Cause Before They Want a Course.

If you want to seize the attention of students today, plan to give them a reason for why they need to listen to your words.


Observation #4: They Want a Guide on the Side Before They Want a Sage on the Stage.

When students were recently asked about their heroes, for the first time in over twenty years they did not list an athlete at the top of the list. Their number-one response was “Mom and Dad.” They’re looking for mentors-authentic mentors.


Observation #5: They Want to Play Before They Pay.

Usually, they love events but don’t enjoy the process of growth.


Observation #6: They Want to Use but Not be Used by Others.

They don’t want to be a project or the target of some marketing campaign. They want to take the initiative and remain n the driver’s seat.


Observation #7 They Want a Transformation, Not Merely a Touch.

It used to be that communicators needed to have interesting information. Next, it was good stories. Then, it was audiovisuals. Later it was to share experiences. Now I believe students want experiences that literally transform them in the process.


THIS excerpt came from the book “Generation iY -Our Last Chance to Save Their Future” by Tim Elmore it is a GREAT read for leaders.

A 12 Year Old Minister...

We love sharing stories of how God is using this generation! Check out the following story...



Caleb Israel Means
12 Year old Minister

Caleb Means is from Elkins West Virginia and is the son of former WV District Youth Director and Bishop, John and Lisa Means

Caleb was born September 16th 1998 and from the start his life was severely challenge. Caleb was born with a massive heart defect that nearly claimed his life. He was a miracle and all knew that God had to have great plans for his life and a call was obvious. Caleb had his first surgery when he was just 3 days old and that was to keep him alive until the heart surgery could be performed in Morgantown WV. 2 days after the first initial procedure Caleb had his two major vessels detached from his heart, reversed and reattached.

I recall the doctor stating that it was going to be a long haul to recovery but what he didn’t realize is that God was at work. Caleb was suppose to spend 2 months in the hospital, have another heart surgery at age seven and could be on medications until the age of 21. From the day of his surgery Caleb was home in 3 and a half weeks, was off all medications in just 2 months and has yet to have another surgery. The Heart Specialist stated that it was like it was all scripted. This past July the Doctor stated that Caleb was just another healthy boy and has been a complete success story, As well he was told he could not play aggressive sports; He just completed his 2nd year of football and usually finished in the top 3 in conditionings.

God has had his hand on Caleb’s life from the beginning. Caleb is called to minister the gospel of Jesus Christ and is being used in a great way. He helps His Father in there Church (New Life, Elkins WV) and often Ministers on Sunday evenings as well as Evangelize. Caleb often Ministers about being obedient to God and drawing close to the Lord and possesses Wisdom beyond His years.

Caleb was invited to minister at a Church this past year and had a message prepared for the service, in there travels to the church he looked at his father and stated ‘’ Dad I think I’m going to talk about faith tonight’’ not realizing God was about to do a miracle. Being obedient Caleb ministered on faith and gave an invitation, several people came for prayer and God was at work. At the end of the alter service the Pastors husband came forward to be prayed for in which being diagnosed with cancer and had received a negative report and was under treatment. He stated that he felt that the Spirit of the lord had spoke to him to be prayed for, Caleb laid his hands on the man and prayed a prayer of faith and healing, that night he received the miracle of his life. He went to the doctor and he was cancer free. Caleb has been used of God to pray for people with heart problems as well. This summer in a local Church Caleb ministered and there was a tremendous response at the alter service where several teens, young people and families where prayed for and received salvation.

God desires to use this generation and make a great impact through them. When I see Caleb I often think of David, a young man that makes mistakes but a young man that has a genuine heart for God and people. To me it is an overwhelming honor to be able to drive Caleb to preaching engagements and support him, there is no other feeling like that. I recall when we fount out that we where going to have a son. The Holy Spirit whispered to name him Caleb Israel, Caleb meaning bold one and Israel one who prevails.

Story by: John Means



Thank You John for sharing this story...let the REVERSE MOVEMENT continue!!!

5 Reasons To Attend an ILD ENCOUNTER

1.Connections.What a great place for you as a leader to connect with other leaders with similar passions from all over your region, as well as connect with our National leaders.

2.Speakers. You will be inspired by the leaders who will be communicating this year at the encounters.

3.Shannon Odell. We are privileged to have Pastor Shannon with us this year at the encounters, you will love hearing from him. For more info visit www.brandnewchurch.com

4.Venues. You will be inspired by both of our host Churches.

5.The Cost. It’s FREE. We have purposely made our encounters free, to invest in as many leaders as we possibly can…don’t miss this incredible opportunity and make sure to bring a leader with you!

Project Christmas/Impact Appalachia

Impact Missions Adventure first joined Impact Appalachia in 2008 with 19 people. In 2009, we added a site in Virginia and took 59 kids, teens, and adults. This year, we added a third site in West Virginia and took 96 life-changers from the ages of 5 to 70. Impact Appalachia – Mission Accomplished.


Pineville, WV: Pineville, West Virginia is a beautiful little town nestled in the Appalachians. While the scenery is breathtaking the obvious need of many families is heart-breaking. It was our inaugural trip to Pineville for our team. We had a warming time of connection as we brought Christmas for the local families to the junior high gymnasium. Songs, games, laughter, supplies, presents and JESUS where all shared with this community. It was amazing to see the transformation of hope and joy brought to the faces of the children in Pineville in just a few short hours.




Hazel Green, KY: This was IMA’s third consecutive year to join the Kentucky District at Red River Valley Elementary School. What a joy it is to return to this location! It is literally a family reunion. We count it an honor to be the “bearers of good news!” Hundreds of miles are traveled to prove to generations (young and old) that Jesus Christ is the Savior and He is our provider. We laugh, play, giggle, hug, give dozens of high-5’s, paint faces, sing, pray, and hand out gifts, blankets, gloves, hats, coats, shoes, toys, candy, food, and home care products that was collected from our PCG team across America. We believe it is more blessed to give than to receive. When you see a little boy or girl’s face brighten with a smile, or a mom and dad’s demeanor change from sadness to gladness just because somebody is “doing their part,” then you know we are being God’s messengers.

Saturday morning opened with a Christmas Program for the Elementary students and their families and then that night the Hazel Green Fire Department opened their station for us to serve 200+ at the community free chili supper where we once again, gave food and care boxes to families. Way to make an Impact, Team Kentucky!










Craigsville, VA: There is nothing better than helping children, teens, and families that are just miles away. Though the trip was over 1000 miles one way, for me there is not one second that any of us on the “Blue Bird” would have traded. The evening we arrived, the churches and Home Missions team had already had boxes ready and unloaded. The team pulled together and got all the gym set up in no time and there was no complaining. When the doors opened on Saturday morning the families rushed in. The smiles on their faces, the joy in their eyes, and the tears that filled our eyes from their stories made us all realize we are REALLY blessed. Everything from the toys, blankets, clothes, shoes, balloons, and songs brought excitement and even to some their only Christmas. But the biggest part for some of us was the Chili supper where we shared Jesus and the greatest story ever told. The burdens were lifted and the smiles so big as not only us but God came into all their lives that day.

PROJECT CHRISTMAS/IMPACT APPALACHIA was a TOTAL TEAM EFFORT! The PCG Women's Ministries department and The National Missions department joined with Impact Student Ministries, PLUS a tremendous team of local volunteers from PCG Churches met us at each location!

ILD Regional Encounters

Our ILD Regional Leadership Encounters are RIGHT AROUND the corner! Remember registration is FREE, so don't miss this opportunity to bring your team of leaders for a wonderful weekend!

This year we are privileged to have Pastor Shannon O'dell as one of our Keynote Speakers. Shannon O’Dell is a devoted husband and father of four. People know him as innovative, inspiring and committed to reaching out to struggling rural churches and churches with a rural state of mind. He has served Brand New Church as senior pastor for over seven years in Bergman, Arkansas, a small community of just over 400 people.

Brand New Church has grown from 31 to 2000 members with 6 campuses, network churches, and an online campus under Shannon’s leadership. He is the author of “Transforming Church in Rural America.”


This will be an exciting time to have Pastor Shannon pour into our hearts and lives as next-gen leaders. Shannon is also a featured speaker this year at the 2011 C3 Conference (www.c3conference.com)hosted by Pastor Ed Young, which is one of the premier Church Conferences in the US.


Find out more about Shannon at www.brandnewchurch.com

DON'T MISS THE ENCOUNTERS! register today at www.impactym.com

MIDWEST/EAST COAST
January 14-15
Solid Rock Family Church
Jefferson City, MO


WEST COAST
January 21-22
Higher Vision Church
Valencia, CA