Meet Your Leaders!

Name: Renee Zweerink
Position: Capernaum Young Life Leader

What would be the title of your autobiography?
I'm Not Perfect, and It's Ok
I tend to be a perfectionist and a bit of a rule follower...which is exhausting. I'm glad Jesus tells me I don't have to have my act together before I come to Him, but rather He says, "Come as you are."

What did you want to be when you grew up?
My sister and I were always pretend playing different occupations -- anything from acting like we were teachers, librarians, waitresses, whatever. But for several years I really wanted to be a veterinarian, until I realized I hated needles and blood!

What has been your all time favorite Halloween costume you've worn?
Once Phil and I dressed up as the Wonder Twins for a YL Halloween club. (Anyone remember the animated show: "Super Friends"? -- I"m really dating myself now!) I made these awesome purples capes and face masks and we had matching ring pops!

What has been your favorite thing about being involved in YL?
So hard to narrow it down to one...so here's two:First, I have always loved how the St. Joseph YL leadership team has had such a variety of people volunteering as leaders. We have college students, young adults new to the career world, newlyweds, teachers and coaches, parents with young children, and parents with teens themselves. We have high school students leading at the WyldLife level. We've even had people in their 50s and 60s be volunteer leaders! That's so awesome...it doesn't matter how cool you are or what your age is, as long as you love Jesus and love teenagers! Secondly, I love how God's words challenge us to know and live out that all people deserve an opportunity to hear the gospel. I feel YL is taking scripture very seriously as YL keeps asking the question, "Are we reaching every kid?"

River, lake or ocean?
Ocean, because I love snorkeling and playing in the waves with my kiddos. But a beautiful lake with a gorgeous sunset is a very close second!