By BEN Larson

we enter the midpoint of the 50th anniversary year with CMA, I would like to acknowledge those who have contributed to the growth of the CMA Youth Movement to where it is today. In 2003, CMA recognized a growing need to connect with youth throughout the country. At this time, they brought Jerod and Jennifer McPherson on staff with CMA as the first Youth Movement National Evangelist, where they served until stepping into the role of Vice President Evangelistic Outreach for CMA.

Throughout their time serving as Youth Movement National Evangelist, they laid the groundwork for what the CMA Youth Movement is today. They paved the way through uncharted territory, creating exceptional opportunities for students like me to experience God in a brand-new way. They made an environment where everyone was welcomed and loved. They traveled to events across the country with their kids in tow. Growing up, I was always excited when they would come to one of our events; they were like family to me, and I enjoyed every opportunity we had with them, as did many other students across the country.

Jerod and Jennifer created a new team of Area Reps, now called Area Reps- Youth Movement, who have stepped up to lead the student ministry within their state. The team has been growing ever since. With

their leadership and commitment to CMA, they have been instrumental in shaping the CMA Youth Movement into what it is today. If you’ ve ever heard of our youth movement event called Flame On that takes place in Mena, Arkansas, over New Year’ s every year, Jerod and Jennifer created this event, and it has been a fantastic opportunity for young people across the nation to hear the Gospel and create supporting friendships that they would not have otherwise.

After Jerod and Jennifer stepped into the role of Vice President Evangelistic Outreach, their son Zeke and his wife, Samantha, came on board with CMA and helped continue the legacy that Jerod and Jennifer started. Zeke and Samantha continued to build the Youth Movement program and were crucial in creating materials for members and leaders to support these students.

Rachel and I stepped into this position in 2021, and as we look back at the leaders across this nation who, at one point, answered the call to serve CMA in any capacity, but specifically in the Youth Movement, we want to say thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Without your commitment, CMA Youth Movement would not be where it is today.

For those of you reading this who enjoy working with students at your church and playing with your grandkids or great-grandchildren, there is

a place for you in CMA. There are many positions in Youth Movement( like Area Rep-Youth Movement, Youth Movement volunteer, and Youth Movement Chapter Mentor). But you don’ t have to serve in a state-appointed position to make a difference in the lives of the younger generation around you. What does your involvement look like? Consider asking God if He wants you to help serve in your state. If you have any questions, please send an email to ben @ cmausa. org. I would be happy to address any questions you may have. You can also contact your local state leadership team with questions about how you may get involved. If you feel God calling you to work with CMA youth, don’ t hesitate to answer that calling … join us in the movement!

Currently, we have 23 states with Area Reps-Youth Movement. This team is comprised of outstanding leaders who love God and are passionate about serving the students within their state. We couldn’ t be more honored to serve with all of these amazing servants of God!

As I wrap this up, I want to thank everyone who currently serves or has served CMA’ s Youth Movement across this nation. Remember, if there is breath in your lungs and blood in your veins, God is not done with you yet! CMA

Ben and Rachel Larson serve CMA as National Evangelist Youth Movement.

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