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and public donations.

Today, the park not only provides a concrete haven for skateboarders, but also serves the Midland community through a unique Christ-centered missionary effort known as “Real Talk.” Every Wednesday night, Bo Celenze, a professional skateboarder, convenes a group of approximately 20 young people at the skate park. His mission is to just “be real” with them—“to share daily struggles and problems, and explore Christ’s Word.” The youth come to the park with their skateboard tucked under one arm and a Bible under the other. Celenze says he has no idea ahead of time as to where the weekly group conversations will lead; however, he always manages to fnd scripture that will relate to the evening’s topic.

“Some of the kids don’t like opening up in a large group,” says Celenze. “Those are the ones who often approach me afterward for a personal discussion. It’s a tough world for young people. Some are suicidal and drug addicts, but most are just undergoing typical teenage stuff of peer pressure, bullying, girlfriend or boyfriend struggles and problems with parents. I guess they feel they can talk to me because I’m approachable. I don’t look like your typical church pastor, but my message is the same.”

Christian Gonzales and Stefan Garcia have both participated in Celenze’s weekly gatherings. “I like it,” says Gonzales. “We can just be ourselves. We meet in a group for about 30 minutes, and then do