Students at Sacred Heart High School had an opportunity to explore their faith and the important parts of their life with Michael Chiasson. The founder of All Access Ministries was there for three days and had sessions with students in each grade in the school.
Chiasson says he's there to push the kids he speaks to, and to help them realize the ways in which they can succeed.
"We challenge them, because I think a lot of times this generation there's almost a sense of entitlement, and I don't mean that in a bad way. We have to make them realize that if there's something inside of you, which I believe God put there, you've got to do something about it, you can't wait for somebody else to do it for you," he says.
In speaking to the kids, Chiasson uses music, visual presentations and other media to get their attention. He says that by keeping it interesting and attention grabbing, it makes the experience more memorable.
In visiting schools across the country, Chiasson says that they try to learn the kids' stories and keep the conversation going through social media after the event. He also says it's unbelievable what kids go through, and is proud to have an impact in their lives, in whichever way he can. He says that the stories of students he talks to inspire him as much as he hopes to inspire others through his work.
The three day event saw Chiasson speak to each grade individually, something he admits he's not often able to do. He credits the staff at Sacred Heart for their willingness to take the time for such an involved process, and he believes it's a good opportunity for all the students. "There's something special about Yorkton, guaranteed. Especially about this community that the teachers were able to invest this much time and resources to make this happen," he says.
Going through the grades is an interesting experience, he adds, as one can see the increasing maturity as the kids get older.
"Watching the different levels, Grade 9 they're starting to ask those questions. Grade 10 and 11 they're trying to find their ground, and Grade 12 it's "Oh my gosh, I thought this day was never going to come, I have to figure out what's going on." It's everything from writing, to playing music, to talking to somebody, it's inspiring them to find their gifts," he closes.
