Roscoe United Methodist Church has a new face leading its youth ministry, and if early impressions mean anything, the congregation has found itself a natural fit. Colby Cross, a lifelong member of RUMC and Harlem High School graduate, stepped into the Youth Director role in early July—and he’s already shaping the program with a mix of enthusiasm, faith, and a clear vision for the next generation.
Cross, 20, grew up in Machesney Park after his family moved north from Indiana when he was an infant. He graduated from Harlem in 2024, earned his associate degree from Rock Valley College, and is now pursuing a bachelor’s degree in history at Northern Illinois University with plans to become a high school or college-level teacher. His path toward youth ministry wasn’t originally part of the plan, but when the church announced the opening, Cross knew immediately it was where he belonged.
“I didn’t really have a strong youth director growing up,” Cross said. “When they said they wanted someone who would include the youth in everything, build them up, and grow the church that was exactly what I wanted to do.”…