Staying Connected
By: Jordan Wheeler 4.12 Coordinator Recent studies by the Barna group (and others) have shown that upwards of 6/10 high school graduates that are actively involved in their church…
How Many More Days?
By: Anna Blazes Camping Ministries Assistant Despite the snowy backdrop, we are already getting ready for summer here at Joy El! During this season I spend a lot of…
Ministry is Hard, But Worth It
By Miriam Ankerbrand Development Coordinator When I was preparing to come work at Joy El almost nine years ago, I spoke with my pastor, Bill Spangler. I was worried…
The First Bibles They Had Ever Seen
By Aaron E. Ziebarth, Executive Director I shared this story as a part of my Thank You letter in December, I thought I had shared it earlier as a…
You’ve Got Mail
By Rachel Shively Director of the 4.12 Leadership Training Program A special memory for many who serve at Joy El are the notes written between fellow staff. Whether summer…
S’more Time in Prayer
By: Lois Ann Glessner BA/CIA Curriculum Coordinator A cute little gift showed up at my house. A box of graham crackers, bag of marshmallows, and Hershey chocolate bars tied…
Hope Building
Nate Marshall Director of Ministry Advancement There is no doubt that 2020 was filled with pain, heartache, and trials. We were all impacted in some form or fashion by…
Good at Being Rich
By Aaron E. Ziebarth, Executive Director When is the last time you were impressed with someone’s generosity? Even amidst the difficulties of the pandemic, I have seen God glorified…
Altar of Thanksgiving
By: Courtney Martin Program Director As we wrapped up our final day of Fall Bible Adventure Weekend we learned about how we can thank God. As we thank Him,…
A Season of Blessing
By Rachel Shively Director of the 4.12 Leadership Training Program 4.12 students are regularly challenged to serve their community and those in need. Despite the change, fear, and hopelessness that…