YOUNG LIFE HOLDS FUND-RAISER

Crazy skits, fast-tempo songs and laughter are always a part of Young Life meetings. But the Cape Girardeau high school students who attend the weekly meetings aren't there just for fun.

"It's a fun way to celebrate Jesus Christ in our lives," said 16-year-old member Katie Barbour.

On Monday, about 300 people attended the annual Young Life fund-raising dessert at the Centenary United Methodist Church Family Life Center. Young Life is a nationwide, non-denominational Christian ministry based on building relationships between adult volunteers and high school students.

At weekly meetings the students usually gather for a short Bible study. "We sing songs, play games, and at the end share a story from the Bible about Jesus and talk about his life here on Earth," said David Goss, area director.

The annual fund-raising event helps pay for the group's operating budget and special activities. The annual budget is $74,000.

Last year, donations totaled $40,000, which helped the group plan activities and events, Goss said. About 70 percent of the local contributions remain in Cape Girardeau.

Dressed in coveralls and a hard hat, dozens of high school students helped convey the event's theme, "A Time to Build."

Joe Stahly, a parent whose children have attended Young Life meetings over the years, said the group has been important in his children's lives. "It's a chance to talk about Christ in a casual setting," he said.

Jeff Michel, 18, agreed. Every Bible study and activity helps bring out a new aspect of how Christianity relates to everyday life, he said. "It's a way to learn about God and do fun activities."

For more information about Young Life, contact Goss at 335-8300.