Youth group changed everything [Rachel's story]

Rachel shares how youth group became her refuge during her parents' separation and shaped her entire approach to ministry and teaching.Rachel grew up as the youngest of three, waiting years to finally join youth group. When her chance came in Year 5, it coincided with her parents splitting and youth became the place where this quiet child could finally be wild and free.We discuss navigating high school friendships as people prioritised parties over church, the sadness of watching confirmation classmates disappear by Year 11, and what it means to keep showing up. Rachel reflects on how experiencing inconsistent leadership shaped her commitment to being there every single week when she started leading.The conversation covers her journey from irritating Chris with excessive enthusiasm, to leading with Joel and to 18 years teaching early childhood. Plus stories about elaborate chip preparation and working at Michel's Patisserie.