By GINNY COOPER MCCARLEY / Special to the Reporter

ALABASTER – McCalla native Justin Massey began as youth pastor of Siluria Baptist Church on June 22 after first feeling called to go into ministry in February of 2013.

“I felt this yearning that God wants more out of me,” Massey said, and, after seeking advice from Michael Gay, youth pastor at Canaan Baptist Church in Bessemer, Massey began attending Leavell College of the New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary’s Birmingham extension.

For Massey, the most exciting aspect of his new job as youth minister is the chance to lead the students spiritually.

“I like the energy of the students (at Siluria Baptist Church),” Massey said. “They are so impressionable, and need good, strong spiritual advice. I want to show them they’re loved more than they could ever imagine by the sovereign God of the universe.”

Massey said the role also gives him a chance to “walk alongside these students as they walk through life,” and plans to lead students through Bible studies, teaching the students how to share their faith and helping them apply what they have learned in their day-to-day lives.

Massey’s mission is two-fold: To help the students grow deeper in their knowledge and relationship with Christ, and to aid the students in making disciples.

Massey was approved by the church, and began work on June 22.

“We love our young people, and we love the children. (We felt that) having a youth pastor who could see to their needs would be advantageous,” Siluria Baptist Pastor Michael Brooks said.

As he begins his new job, Massey is looking forward to sharing his passion with the students.

“I am excited to watch the students grow in their relationship with Christ,” Massey said. “I can’t wait to see their love for him.”