Anchorage     ăng′kər-ige   (ang kerridge)

Commonly a noun: the condition of being anchored; while not  directionally controlled, the anchored object has free movement inside a well-defined area, realm, or distance.  While free movement occurs inside of the Anchorage area, defined boundaries halt movement across the  boundary.  From any direction, you have free movement back to the Anchorage's center point. 

Do kids have dynamic Anchorage? 

What would you think about after conversing with a highly focused, self-aware, & self-confident 18-year old—or 13-year old—or a 16-year old?

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a. So typical     b. How unusual     c. That’s surreal!

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I believe that most would pick “c.”  But why?  In 21st century America, kids don’t grow up learning household or farming tasks which frame a work ethic. They rarely begin their day with prayer or biblical persuasions—which develop an understanding of Morality and Ethical behaviors--which leads to strong character formation.

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As a whole, American teens don't have peers with sound, strong, and forward-looking life objectives.  Today's youth are self-focused and make short-sighted decisions.  Far too many move and think with peer pressure alone.  When's the last time you heard sound and insightful advice from a 16 year-old? 

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Peers are part of life, and necessarily a major influence across teen groups.  But, the vast majority provide no anchorage through their influences.  At worst, they can lead one another into dangerous waters.

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At Parham Road, my primary goal is to build, over time, a dynamic and strong anchorage point for our youth.   That anchorage point is based on The Way, The Truth, & The Life.  Everything we do; everything I teach; and, everything we offer is designed to develop highly-focused kids with intrinsically-defined boundaries.  With Jesus as the anchor, and biblically-based boundaries, our kids are learning how to live life to the fullest without damaging consequences. . . 

     - Rev. John Gillam, Youth Minister