Four teens tapped as Acteens panelists

By Lauren Urtel
June 20, 2008

JACKSONVILLE (FBC)—Four high school teens who have demonstrated a ‘commitment above all else’ to ministry in Florida have been selected to represent the state as "Acteens state advisory panelists," for 2008-2009.

Twelfth-grader Aimee Young, Myrtle Grove Baptist Church in Pensacola; and eleventh-graders Kyla Wilkinson, First Baptist Church of Defuniak Springs; Caitlynn Stamey, Lakeshore Baptist Church in Jacksonville; and Amber Waller, Eagle’s Landing Baptist Church in New Port Richey, were recognized for their mission involvement and commitment.

“These teens have a tremendous commitment to God,” said Sonja Roberson, Florida Baptists’ Acteens Coordinator. “They demonstrated commitment when they could have chosen other areas of interest. This is the caliber of young women that we want to lead Florida.”

To be considered for the panel, teens must provide written essays and recommendations from their pastors and Acteens leaders. They must be active in their church, diligent in learning the Acteens curriculum and demonstrate hands-on missions involvement.

During their term of service these panelists will attend conferences and lead other Acteens in activities. They are available to travel and speak about missions at churches and community events.

Young, 17, said she had sought to share her love of Jesus since she was saved at summer camp in at age seven. In addition to her involvement in Acteens, she has served in vacation Bible school and missions, including relief efforts in Mississippi following Hurricane Katrina. She enjoys singing and playing the piano and violin.

“Aimee continues to grow in her spiritual walk and uses her talents in music for the Lord,” said Kay Reed, Myrtle Grove’s Woman’s Missionary Union director. “She is a very outgoing and personable young lady that can be called on at any time. She has a willing spirit and will do anything asked of her.”

Fifteen-year-old Wilkinson said being an Acteens panelist will give her a chance “to grow in faith and focus in missions.” She enjoys dance, public speaking and working with children.

“Kyla is a responsible self-starter who is always willing to help whenever she is needed,” said Daniel Johnson, minister to students at DeFuniak First. “She has a close walk with the Lord which is evident in her life and in the public stands she takes.”

Speaking to small groups, working with children and drama are the ministry areas where Stamey, 16, is called to serve.

At a Disciple Now weekend, three girls rededicated their lives and one girl accepted Christ through the skit Stamey performed. “It was very humbling because God showed Himself through me,” said Stamey. “I know I was just an instrument He used and I learned life-changing lessons just from being in that skit.”

Waller, 16, said participating in Acteens has helped her to gain confidence in herself and “grow courageous enough to live the way God intended.” She enjoys working with children, singing and public speaking.

“Amber is a leader among our youth, especially with Acteens,” said David Henderson, senior pastor at Eagle’s Landing. “She sets an example and is known for her faithfulness.”

“Missions education is vital because it prepares young people to apply the talents, skills and gifts God has given them to make a difference in the world,” said Roberson. “Without this education in missions, there would be a void in the spiritual development of our young people.”

Roberson said the 2008-2009 panelists are an excellent example of Florida Baptists’ youth. “Our young people are very mission-minded,” said Roberson. “They are seekers of God and out there on the front lines working to make a difference in their communities.”

Acteens is a missions and ministry organization of the Southern Baptist Convention’s Woman’s Missionary Union for teenage girls in grades 7 through 12. Through Acteens, members grow in their understanding of God and of themselves and are engaged in hands-on mission opportunities in their communities and beyond. Acteens are also actively involved in learning about missions, praying and giving to missions.