On the Front Lines for Eternal Life

Al-Shakeem Woodson was only 15 years old when he was gunned down on the streets of Newark on Mother’s Day of this year. He was beloved by all of the people at our ministry here in Newark and he attended our youth group on a regular basis.

The people in Newark are very familiar with violence and senseless killings. There is an average of over 100 murders every year. However, this shooting really hit a nerve; it was so close to home, and we lost a young friend who had so much potential. Monk was no angel. He was often in trouble for fighting or something similar, but this is not unusual for a kid from the city. The photo shows him on the lower left along with his best friend, Daniel and World Impact Associate, Nahgi Perry.

Nahgi came on as an Associate back in March and his responsibilities included mentoring the youth. He was determined to make a difference in the lives of the teens in our community. Spending time with the kids is a key factor in winning them for Jesus, and Nahgi was really making an impact. He took Al-Shakeem under his wings in the months leading up to his death, and Monk was showing a real interest in the things of God. He even said that he would like to be a preacher when he grew up.

His family said, “Monk was a very loving, funny and caring son and he will forever live on in our hearts because of the many lives he touched.” Please pray for us as we serve on the front lines of the battle here in urban America. We are making a big difference in winning the lost for Jesus.

Steve and Ruth Hoernig are World Impact missionaries in Newark, NJ.