LAKE HAVASU CITY – Since 1980, Lakeview Community Church has opened its doors to the people of Lake Havasu. The following year, the congregation had grown so much that it moved to a leasehold spot at McCulloch Blvd. Within that same year, their continuous expansion of members led to another move at their present location.
The 25,000 square feet building at West Acoma boulevard has now been the permanent address for over 40 years. With one of Lakeview’s main missions to focus on youth ministries, the church recently spent the past two years without an active program that included young adult outreach. Originally from South Dakota, youth pastor Timothy Bryson along with his spouse moved to Havasu in 2024.
Viewing the teen years as a time period when the most guidance is needed, the couple have been continuous foster parents to various children in need of homes throughout the years and hold a special place in their hearts for teens. As an active member of the church, Lakeview requested of Bryson to become the church’s youth pastor. Just a year and a half ago, Bryson started weekly youth nights.
A meeting group where minors can worship and talk freely. Intertwining biblical stories, pastor Bryson uses them to parallel the real-life challenges from teens during the discussions. He also focuses on teaching emotional intelligence by instructing the youth on how to show respect towards everyone, regardless of their personal feelings. The pastor aims teaching the group social order and adhering to protocol.
As a way to get the ministry more involved with the community in the future, plans remain in the works for the group to visit the elderly in nursing homes and provide free yard work for homeowners who are physically and financially unable. In wanting to reach more recognition among young residents, Bryson would like to see the team have more of an online presence through social media. With a free dinner provided at each gathering at 6 p.m., the Lakeview Community Church youth nights occur each Wednesday at 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at 1699 W. Acoma Blvd.
It’s through scripture stories that Pastor Bryson enjoys relating those lessons to the various experiences he hears in the discussions of each gathering. “I enjoy interjecting bible stories with their daily challenges with school, family, and friends. I can see that it really helps teens gain a better understanding of the gospel!” Bryson said.
Phaedra Veronique
