A Decade in Review

Do you remember where you were 10 years ago? I remember where I was, and my life was about to change…

A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE

I was living in Connecticut, working for an insurance company and anticipating serving as a TeenPact Class Director that spring. Mrs. Martin had been asked to serve alongside Mrs. Lori Hall to oversee the kitchen at Staff Training. I offered to attend as well, serving as a chaperone, driver, etc. This was typical for us – serving with TeenPact whenever we had an opportunity while very busy with our church and family as well.

Martin family, 2009 and 2019

I was also serving on the CEO Search Committee as Tim Echols was running for office in Georgia. The Search Committee met weekly to develop the job description and requirements, identify candidates, and interview prospective individuals. Unexpectedly, my name was added to the list of possible candidates, and I prayerfully considered whether to apply. After further discussion with Mrs. Martin, I decided to do so. Imagine my excitement in April when I was chosen by the Board of Directors to become the CEO of TeenPact Leadership Schools – a ministry that I love so dearly.

TEENPACT THEN AND NOW

My life and my family’s life has changed dramatically because of TeenPact, and TeenPact has changed as well these last ten years. The ministry has grown from 38 to 48 states, increased One Day and Four Day registrations from 4250 to 5400 students, and doubled the size of National Convention from 445 to 900 participants! There have been many behind-the-scenes changes that have improved the quality and excellence of the program, including staffing changes, training manuals, process improvements, and so much more. We have become a well-oiled machine that is ready to respond to the ever-changing homeschool environment and culture. 

As I reflect on these ten years and look forward to a future with TeenPact, I am thankful for the many people who have worked to make this possible. It has taken a significant commitment from my family, the Board of Directors, each employee, thousands of volunteers, and every student attending a State Class or Alumni Event. The TeenPact Nation has experienced growth and change through diligence, perseverance, hard work, late nights, and lots of prayer. We have planned for change, and God has blessed the plans because we have kept Him at the center of our endeavors. 

JOIN ME BY PRAYING

Dwight D. Eisenhower said, “In preparing for battle, I have always found that plans are useless, but planning is indispensable.” We face a spiritual battle daily, and we must continue to rely on God every day of our lives through the Word and prayer. Jesus told His disciples in John 15:7, “If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” Those words are as real today as they were when spoken by Jesus. Join me in making it your goal to abide in Him this year and to commit to pray.

Each Sunday evening I share a prayer email with requests that focus on our needs for the coming week. If you are interested in receiving this email, contact me at [email protected], and I will add you to the list. 

May the Lord bless you and keep you this coming year and forevermore.

Keep seeking,

TeenPact President and CEO Peter Martin

Editor’s Note: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official views of TeenPact Leadership Schools. To learn more about our Vision & Values, please visit teenpact.com/vision-values/.