Beth Stricko

Hi, I’m Beth Stricko.  I am your Youth Director!

Here is a quick recap about me… I was born and raised in Canfield. I live on the same street I grew up on with my caring husband, Dan, and our three amazing children, Katherine (8), Ty (3), and Tanner (2).  I grew up and was active in the Canfield United Methodist Church.

Almost three years ago, while working at Shepherd of the Valley, I wondered into Good Hope and met Pastor Ralph.  Little did I know that would be the beginning of something very special!  During my time at Shepherd it became clear that I was being called to do something more…what that entailed, I didn’t know!  I knew that I wanted to work with “kids” and help them learn.  During one of my visits, Pastor Ralph mentioned that Good Hope was looking for a Youth Director/Christian Education Minster.  After some discussion with my husband and a lot of praying, I applied. Thankfully the call committee offered me the position and I gratefully accepted!

I will further my education in preparation to be an Associate in Ministry. My courses will include Biblical studies Old and New Testament, Systematic Theology, Church History and Lutheran Theology & Confessional Writings.

 Now, the youth…who are the youth of this community?  Youth, according to Pastor Ralph and I, are anyone under the age of twenty-five.  Part of my mission is to share, with the entire Good Hope family, what the youth are doing.  I will share this good news by making announcements during worship services, in the newsletter and on the website.  Our youth are doing amazing things and we are proud of them! I am here for the youth and I am excited to get to know each of them! Please share my information so we may open the lines of communication.  If you have texting ability/permission send me a message at 330-519-5819 or email me at youthdirector@goodhope-elca.org.

I am working with Sunday school superintendents Brigid and Julie to make learning about the Lord fun every Sunday!  We invite you to come and see what we have planned for this year. Soon, we will be offering a children’s church service!  Children’s church is an opportunity for children in kindergarten thru fourth grade to participate in worship on a different level. It’s going to be fun!  More information about children’s church will be coming soon.  During Sunday school I will be working the junior and senior high youth to form a Youth Advisory Committee.  This committee will have input on how the youth can serve God with-in Good Hope and in the community.

 It is my hope that the young people of Good Hope Lutheran Church have their own awesome experience growing up surrounded by a loving and supportive church family. Thank you for welcoming me and my family to Good Hope. Get ready to enjoy the ride!!!

God be with you,

Beth