2024 Camp Speaker

Hey there! My name is Jamin Thomas, and I have the incredible privilege of serving as the Youth Pastor at Northwest Community Church (NCC) in Malcolm, NE. It’s a role that’s both humbling and exhilarating as I get to walk alongside students, pointing them to the life-changing love of Jesus!

Jesus captured my heart at a young age, and I accepted Him as my Lord and Savior as a child. But let me tell you, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From navigating hard life lessons to experiencing God’s abundant grace in the valleys, He has been faithful in shaping me into who I am today. High school was a turning point for me, when my faith became personal, not just something inherited or tied to fun times at youth group and church camps. It was during those years that my Youth Pastor challenged me to embrace God’s calling on my life. That step of faith led me to Chicago, where I studied Youth Ministry at Moody Bible Institute. Now, I’m back in my hometown, serving the very church that poured into me. Reinvesting in the next generation and sharing the hope of Christ has been the greatest honor of my life.

My passion for youth ministry was solidified when I heard a staggering truth: most people who decide to follow Christ do so before the age of 18. The harvest is plentiful, and my prayer for Merritt Youth Retreat is bold: that we would all encounter Jesus in ways that transform EVERYTHING!

Being a Youth Pastor is a blessing, but in my free time, you’ll likely find me outdoors hunting, landscaping, running, or geeking out with my favorite hobbies. My wife, Hailey, lovingly calls me a nerd because of my love for almost everything Star Wars, Marvel, LEGO, gaming, and anything creative.

Speaking of Hailey, she’s my partner in life and ministry, and we’ve been blessed to do this crazy, beautiful journey of marriage for 7 years. Together, we’re raising two amazing daughters who keep us on our toes and fill our lives with joy. Junia (3.5) is a firecracker who brings the party wherever she goes, and RoWynne (almost 1) is pure sunshine with her constant smiles.

I’m SO pumped for Merritt Youth Retreat this year and can’t wait to dive into God’s Word with you. I’m praying for you as I prepare and look forward to seeing God move in UNforgettable ways. See you soon!