As one of the pastors, of course, I have a biased view of the church. But as a parent of 3 teen-agers who have been formed and shaped by this loving church family, I am forever grateful. And it's not just my kids that reap this benefit. The children and youth of Decatur First UMC are surrounded by a supportive, caring church family, who call them by name, support their endeavors, and give them opportunities to serve and lead. I am grateful for this church family and for the many ways it continues to form and shape the lives of so many young people. Our young people are leaning about faith through the words and actions of our multi-generational church family who cares for them.