LEWISTOWN - As a pastor's son, Josh Nuss grew up surrounded by Bible teachings and church services.
But it was not until he attended youth group in high school that his relationship with God became real.
Nuss, the new assistant pastor at Grace Covenant Church in Lewistown, said those nights at youth group in New York inspired him to become a youth pastor.
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Sentinel photo by MICAIAH WISE BILGER
Josh Nuss is the new assistant pastor at the Grace Covenant Church in Lewistown.
At the heart of his ministry is a desire to acquaint youth with the same relationship he found in God.
" ... in youth group, (my faith) became my own - not just my parents' faith but my own," Nuss said.
Since he moved to Lewistown in May, Nuss has been active with the youth of the church, leading groups and building relationships. He also assists Senior Pastor Ron Neff with pastoral care visits and teaching, and serves on the worship team.
The Lewistown church is his first staff position, though he served in several churches and with a mission while he studied at Elim.
Rev. Neff said the church has been searching for an assistant minister for several years.
"We don't just fill the position," Neff said. "It's got to be a right fit. God connected us with Josh here. It has been a wonderful connection."
The young pastor said he enjoys the rural community. It won't be too long before he will have a new partner in ministry - Nuss is engaged to be married to a young woman who also attended Elim.
Nuss said he really wants people, especially youth, to know they can have a personal relationship with God.
"There's freedom in Christ," Nuss said. "He can set them free from bondage."
His focus for the church youth meetings is more than just fun - though that is important, too. Nuss said he hopes to lead the youth toward building healthy relationships with the leaders and peers, and, most importantly, to grow closer to God.
Youth and young adult groups meet on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday evenings. Nuss also participates in worship services, which are held at 10 a.m. Sundays and 7 p.m. Wednesdays.
For more information, call the church office at 248-4579 or go online to www.gcclewistown.com.
