A Year of Growth, Gratitude, and Impact
The graduating class of 2026
Hello prayer warriors!
I want to begin by thanking you for praying for Rooted throughout this past year. A month ago, I met someone who told me they pray for the program every single day, and I cannot express what a gift it is to know that people are faithfully lifting up this ministry before the Lord.
We recently celebrated graduation for this year’s class on Saturday, May 16, and it was such a beautiful day. The students shared reflections on what they learned, how they grew, and the ways God worked in their lives throughout the year. It was encouraging and humbling to witness.
One of the biggest lessons I learned this year was the impact that six people can have.
Too often we say things like, “We only found six students.” But this year reminded me that God can do incredible things through six willing people. This group had a powerful impact, especially through their involvement at Mount Bethel Church and in the young adult ministry known as Mountain House. What made it even more special was how different they all were from one another - and yet their gifts complemented each other so beautifully.
Looking ahead, we already have nine students committed for next year’s class, coming from:
California
Washington
Wisconsin
Canada
New Jersey
New York
We also have several additional students in the application process. With a cap of 14 students, we will already be the largest class Rooted has ever had. Please continue spreading the word, encouraging young adults to explore the program, and follow Rooted on social media.
As we prepare for this growth, we also need to expand our Carriage House dormitory by adding two bedrooms and an additional bathroom. We’ll be hosting a work week June 22–27 for these and other projects. If you are local and would enjoy serving with your hands, we would love the help - and we have jobs for every skill level.
I also want to express my deep gratitude for the generosity shown toward Rooted this past year. Your support has helped cover day-to-day program costs and provide scholarships that made it possible for students to attend.
As part of that effort, Rooted will be holding a Week of Impact from May 31–June 7. During that week, every gift given will be matched dollar-for-dollar up to $30,000, and an additional $10,000 gift will be unlocked if we reach 100 donors. We are excited to see how God may use this opportunity to continue strengthening the ministry for the years ahead.
As we head into the summer season, please don’t let up in prayer - if anything, double up.
Here are a few specific ways you can pray:
Pray for this year’s students as they transition home and into new opportunities, that God would provide strong spiritual community and open doors for ministry.
Pray for the students already signed up for next year, that God would prepare their hearts throughout the summer for a meaningful and transformative year.
Pray for students who are still deciding whether to apply or attend Rooted.
Pray that the dormitory projects - especially the new bathroom - would come together smoothly and be completed in time.
Pray for wisdom as we reflect on the past two years of Rooted and continue preparing for the upcoming year.
As I mentioned at the beginning, thank you again for faithfully praying for Rooted. You are a tremendous blessing to this ministry.
With a grateful heart,
Roger Viksnes
Director, Rooted Gap Year Program
