“Use Me, Lord” is a song written by 14-year-old Matteo M. as part of his God and Life requirements. This was his favorite project: he wrote the lyrics and chose the basic chord progressions. Although Matteo is “non-verbal autistic,” he has truly found his voice! Matteo spells out his thoughts on a letter board, and it is in this way that he expresses his deep opinions, original thoughts, and seeks to “be a voice for the silent ones.” It took 85 pages for Matteo to answer all the questions and discussion items for God and Life. According to his mother, “This program has been a wonderful experience for our entire family … It’s been wonderful to actually ‘make the time’ in our lives to sit around and discuss deep things like the questions that were presented in this project. We are a closer family because of it ... closer to each other and to God, each in our own way.” Congratulations, Matteo on earning your God and Life award. May each of us join you in saying, “USE ME, LORD.”

Visit www.matteomusso.com to learn more about Matteo’s incredible journey and his mission to speak out about autism.

Brownie Girl Scouts from Peace Lutheran Church in Saginaw, MI painted small bird houses for their feathered friends. While they painted, they listened to the song “Sparrows” by Jason Gray. According to Girl Scout leader Haley Cottrell, “Songs have a lovely way of delivering a message...often time better than I can. I really enjoy these RP3 badges because they are not only religious in nature but also because of really unique themes that tie together three different Bible Stories. Personally I LOVE watching birds in my back yard. I think they are fascinating creatures, so I was quite excited to lead this merit earning opportunity with them.”

Boy Scout troop 452 chartered by Arlington United Methodist Church celebrated the highest honor in scouting earned by four Eagle Scouts at their ceremony Saturday, March 24, 2018 at Arlington United Methodist Church in Arlington, Tennessee. For part of their display, the four boys included their PRAY patches and medallions from the God and Me, God and Family and God and church levels of the PRAY program. Thanks for taking pride in your religious awards!