December 16

Christa J. Smith of Mustang, Oklahoma, shares a powerful sense of calling alongside her husband, Russell Smith. Together, they are pursuing the Deacon Minister Ordination through the Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance. Their shared mission is clear: they are called to youth ministry.

“We both feel called to youth ministry,” Christa shares. “This program has been a huge blessing as we prepare to step into leadership roles that will impact the next generation.”

That’s when he found Christian Leaders Institute and Christian Leaders Alliance.

“As soon as I read their mission, I knew this was the right place.”

Christa and Russell are raising four children, with their three youngest sons—ages 16, 16, and 17—still living at home. Their family life and ministry vision are deeply connected, rooted in a desire to serve and guide youth toward Christ.

Already active in their local church, Christa and Russell both serve as youth sponsors and regularly help lead the teen group on Wednesdays. “We currently work alongside another leader who serves as the youth pastor,” Christa explains. “Our hope is to grow into that role ourselves one day.”

Christa is currently enrolled in the Deacon Minister Ordination class at Christian Leaders Institute. “I am taking this class to further my education in God’s Word. I want to grow spiritually, gain ministry credibility, and learn to pray more confidently and comfortably.”

The free online ministry training offered by Christian Leaders Institute has made a significant impact on her life. “This training has not only expanded my Bible knowledge,” Christa says, “but also equipped me to be a stronger leader in many different situations.”

As they continue their studies and ministry work, Christa and Russell remain grounded in prayer and driven by purpose. “Please pray that my husband and I will continue to grow and further our knowledge,” Christa asks, “so that we can fully live out our calling to be youth pastors in our church.”