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2009 Hunstad Award: David Scherer - "Agape" We have great joy in presenting the Tom Hunstad Award this year. It is being given to an individual who has had an immeasurable impact on thousands of youth and adults across God’s Church, as have all of our past awardees, but this year’s recipient in many ways is different. This person’s distinctive ministry, passion for diversity and finding ways to bridge the gaps that exist in our society today are among the reasons the Board of Directors chose this person to receive this year’s award. As we look to the future for a more diverse and embracing Network and Church, it is people like our recipient who will help show us the way. His unique ministry reaches out to people in a way that is relevant and fresh and he preaches the Gospel in a way that young people get it. He combines music, movement, and his fluency in Spanish to captivate people and challenge them to explore their faith in God. His storytelling and faith sharing connect with youth in a way that most of us can only dream about. He is authentically present and caring with young people. His down to earth nature and open heart and mind make him a natural in the youth ministry world.
He challenges us, as adults in youth ministry, to think about new ways to relate to the young people we serve. Our 2009 awardee is far from nearing the end of his ministry career, but his ministry and witness have had such a profound impact on our Church and on many of the lives in this room that the Board felt the need to recognize him now. He is known by many names…
It is our honor and privilege to present the 2009 Tom Hunstad Award for Excellence in Youth Ministry to David Scherer. Dave, we thank God for you, your music and your messages of inclusivity, positive thinking and discipleship. We look forward to many more years of partnership and friendship with you and are excited to see how God will continue to use you to impact the lives of youth and adults across the Church. |