by Grace Wu

Today’s youth profile highlights Haeli, who is a 7th grader in the Lumos youth ministry.

How long have you been a part of Lumos? What was it like when you first came?

I’ve been a part of Lumos for about a year now. When I first came to youth, it was really different. I felt older and I liked the way the youth staff wanted all the youthies to call them by their regular names without the Mr. or Miss/Mrs! 🙂 Also, I saw the way the staff loved to hear about how we were doing and our thoughts about the messages we would hear every Friday, and Sunday! I knew that I would love my time here at youth!

How have you changed since first being in Lumos and now?

I could see myself being more excited and motivated to learn about God and his word than I was before! I make time to read the Bible no matter how busy I am; but in the past, my schedule sometimes got in the way of my quiet time. Instead of forcing myself, I read the Bible because I want to.

What is one significant lesson God has been teaching you lately?

God has been teaching me patience. Lately, I have been very burdened with homework and tests, but God has been showing me to be patient with struggles, and to do everything for Him.

What’s it like being one of the younger students in Lumos?

Being a younger student is cool because when you need advice on things that you’re going through, you can always look up to the older youth members for help. Whether it’s school or church, most of the times they’ve already been through it. It’s comforting to know that when you are young, there is always someone who will be there for you.

How do you shine the light at your school?

I try to shine the light by setting a Christian example and talking to non-believers. It’s actually pretty interesting what people think about God. Most of the time, you dont know what they think until you take the courage to ask them and talk with them! Almost all of my friends are unbelievers so I try to talk about God in our conversations.

What is one thing you want people to know about you?

One thing I want people to know about me is that I love being at church and with the youth. Being at these places make me really happy and I find myself more prone to laughing!

What are your hobbies?

I love playing the flute and I’m currently in the San Diego Youth Symphony. I also enjoy running and playing sports! Cross Country is something I really want to do when I get older, along with joining the volleyball team! Another one of my hobbies is reading! I think adventurous/mysterious, and funny books are my favorite!