Teens draw strength

from shared beliefs

By CHRIS VETTER

Journal Staff Writer

NEW ULM -- Just before 7 a.m. on Mondays, more than two dozen New Ulm area students gather at Burger King for breakfast.

The conversation topics aren't about a recent sporting event or homework. Rather the students discuss their faith and their daily struggles and victories as Christians.

Although the sun is just beginning to rise, the alert students are interested in talking about their beliefs.

Dave Sperstad, youth director for First United Methodist Church of New Ulm, says the weekly breakfast brings out about 30 students, grades 7-12, each Monday. He said about 50 teens have attended the discussions at least once this year.

"They talk amongst themselves," Sperstad said. "What they say stays between themselves and God."

Sperstad has run the weekly gatherings for four years. Last year, the program was expanded, allowing junior high-age students to attend. That move has vastly increased attendance.

"I'm just happy they're here," Sperstad said. "It added excitement. It's exciting that there are so many students here."

Each student receives a free book about Christian fellowship, titled "WWJD." Sperstad prefers to call the book "Walking With Jesus Daily," rather than the usual title, "What Would Jesus Do?"

"Even if they never come back, they still have the book," he said.

The readings are short and apply to situations that a teen today will confront. The teens are asked to read the stories throughout the week, then discuss the articles over breakfast.

"They're talking about where they've seen God last week or where they need God this week," Sperstad said.

First United Methodist Church sponsors the event and pays for the meals, but Sperstad said the students come from a variety of religious denominations.

"The church was interested in reaching all kids to teach about Christ, not just Methodist kids," Sperstad said.

The students agree that the book is a helpful spiritual guide.

"We come out here to learn more about our faith," said Brett Fleck, 14, of New Ulm. "The book we read is up to date, so it helps in our everyday life."

Joey Warta, 13, agreed with his study partner. Warta said the morning discussions strengthen his beliefs.

"It helps us to know that we're not alone when we say we are Christians," Warta said.

At another table, Ben Day, 14, discusses his opinions of the readings openly with his friends.

"The book helps us with problems that we deal with in school every day," Day said.

Ross Lambrecht, 14, finds comfort in talking about his beliefs with others.

"It's a lot easier when everyone is here to talk about the same thing," Lambrecht said.

The chatter is lively but focused. Robbi Koons, an adult leader, sits with four teens. She read a passage from the Gospel according to Mark, then opened WWJD book for a comparison of how the Bible applies to a modern situation.

The gathering closes with a short prayer before the children scatter to their various schools.

Sperstad is excited about the growing number of students who attend the sessions. He hopes more teens find out about the program and participate.

"I just love being with the kids," he said.