By: Maricel Ibañez
The Scriptures represent youth as a time both of danger and challenge. Moses said that “the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth” (Gen. 8:21), and Paul admonished Timothy to “flee youthful lusts” (2 Tim. 2:22). However, God also recognizes the value of youth to the divine cause. The Bible is filled with examples of how God has used younger people in some of the most vital roles in the unfolding of his marvelous plan of redemption.
Indeed, youngsters have energy, they are daring, their hearts are filled with visions of the future. JECPP’s Davao Oriental Section acknowledged the need to empower the youth, as they are a valuable component in the Kingdom of God. A Youth Leadership Training was organized on February 15, 2019 at Evangel Family Church – Mati City. Wherein 32 motivated youth leaders attended the said activity.
Pastor Evelyn Calamba of EFC Carmen was the main guest speaker of the event. During the first session, she reminded the participants about their identity in the Lord. She powerfully shared the message entitled “Remember Who You Are”, the topic put emphasis not on self but on what Jesus did on the cross for us. God made us who we are so we could make known who He is. She admonished the youth to remember that as Christians, we are the salt and the light of the world, and that is our identity.
On the second session, she focused on the topic about leadership entitled “God called us to Lead”. She elaborated on the qualities that a leader must possess in order to be efficient and effective. According to her, a leader must have the following: Good Character, Commitment, Passion, Self-discipline, Servanthood and Teachability. She added that the leader carries the weight on what is going on in the lives of his/her members and that is why it is very important to apply the six principles she has mentioned by heart.
The one-day training was strengthened by the presence and support of EFC Pastors in Davao Oriental namely: Pastor Renante Miguel and Rev. Delia Miguel, Pastor Emy Aquino, Pastor Marian Cheng and Pastor Glen Cheng. The unity of the pastors in ministering to the youth individually during the prayer time ignited the participants fire in serving God. The pastors blessed the youth and released them to their Kingdom purpose.
The testimony and fellowship time after the sessions gave encouragement to the participants as well. Each of them went home with a deep desire to make their lives relevant in leading others to the Kingdom of God.
