Members of the Gladstone City Council took time in their meeting on Tuesday, August 8th, to thank the Youth and Young Adults of the Oregon Conference for their community service projects during camp meeting. This year, the group focused on renovating and repainting several structures in local city parks. Young professionals mentored high school students as they served, focusing on key leadership themes such as integrity, active listening, leading yourself well, and leading with courage.

“I've called this city home for eight years,” shared Pastor Benjamin Lundquist during the city council meeting, “Our hope has always been that we not be the best church in the community but the best church for the community. We are really committed to growing every year in the ways that we can serve the city of Gladstone with absolutely no strings attached. We just want to make our community better and it's our belief that when the city wins, everybody is stronger, everybody is healthier, and this community is better equipped to reach more people, raise up healthier kids, and have an impact not only in Gladstone but in ripple effects far beyond. It’s an honor for us to be able to partner with the City of Gladstone.”

Pastor Lundquist then introduced attending representatives Jason Calvert, Kaleb & Gerelisa Eisele, and Dr. Kara Johnsson, who was presented with a thank you card on behalf of the City of Gladstone. “You came up here thanking us, but it almost seems awkward that way,” said City Councilor Luke Roberts. “Thank you, guys, for what you’ve done for us, we greatly appreciate it!”

City Councilor Mindy Garlington added, “You had me at service, because I think that’s where people need to be. You all just show that – I can see in your faces that you love doing what you do. So, thank you for being a part of Gladstone. We need you here. Thank you so much!”

Oregon Conference Youth and Young Adult leaders plan to continue serving the City of Gladstone through camp meeting community service projects next year, so keep an eye out next spring and early summer for more information!