By: Hannah Faith P. Padinit
Throughout history, young people have played an integral role in movements that have shaped societies and nations. From movements for political change to nation-building, youth have often stood at the forefront, fueled by dynamic energy, passionate ideals, and a deep desire to make a difference. Their influence can reach far beyond their immediate circles, transforming communities and leaving an enduring impact on society.
Yet, the same strength and potential that make young people influential can also make them vulnerable to competing voices and influences. In an increasingly connected world shaped by technology, young people encounter countless ideas, values, and choices—some that draw them closer to God and others that can lead them away from His purposes. Amid this growing complexity, the church is confronted with an urgent responsibility: to disciple tomorrow’s generation today.
Recognizing this urgent call, the Northern Mindanao region gathered for its Youth Camp on August 19–21, 2026, following a two-year break. Delegates from the five sections of the region—Cagayan de Oro, Malaybalay, Mambayaan, Lala, and Surigao—converged in Baikingon, Bukidnon, approximately 30 minutes from the center of Cagayan de Oro City.
Carrying the theme “Discipling Tomorrow’s Generation Today” and the motto “Tomorrow’s Generation, Today’s Mission,” the camp sought to remind the church that the next generation cannot simply be prepared for the future; they must be discipled, grounded, and equipped today. The gathering also affirmed that young people are not merely recipients of ministry. They are active participants in God’s mission—called to serve, lead, influence, and advance His kingdom.
The camp began with a brief orientation and an icebreaker that allowed the delegates to reconnect and build fellowship. After sharing their evening meal, the participants gathered for the first worship service.
Pastor Eli Ello of Malaybalay delivered a message on the importance of the anointing of the Holy Spirit. He challenged the young people to pursue a life of fervent prayer and fasting and to earnestly seek the presence and power of God’s Spirit. He reminded them that the world is becoming increasingly challenging and that, as he expressed it, “the days are becoming more evil.”
His message was not intended to create fear but to cultivate spiritual readiness. The young people were reminded that there is a spiritual battle beyond what the physical eye can see—a battle that requires believers to remain watchful, prayerful, and dependent upon the Holy Spirit.
The second day began with a morning devotional and breakfast, followed by a worship service led by Pastor Brian Calalin of Mambayaan. He emphasized the vital connection between discipleship and leadership, reminding the young people that those who are discipled are also being prepared to disciple others.
The message was put into action during the afternoon Leadership Workshop and Project Pitch Competition. The young people were given an opportunity to identify challenges in their churches and communities and present practical ideas for addressing them.
Among the projects presented were “Music Workshop,” designed to train and develop new church musicians; “Gadgets,” a forum addressing concerns involving gaming, social media, pornography, and cyberbullying; “Outreach Program: You Only Live Once (YOLO),” which seeks to reach young people in Mambayaan and engage them regarding the “YOLO” mentality; and “Believing and Obeying,” which addresses the inconsistency that can occur when young people live differently inside and outside the church.
The project presentations revealed the creativity, awareness, and willingness of the young people to become part of the solution. Their ideas demonstrated that the next generation is not simply waiting for opportunities to serve—they are capable of identifying needs and envisioning ways to respond.
Amazing Race
The afternoon continued with the Amazing Race, turning the participants into a joyful, energetic, and rather messy group. Soaking wet and covered in flour, they nevertheless continued with laughter and enthusiasm. Beyond the games, the activity strengthened friendships and created memories that would remain long after the camp ended.
The final evening service carried a powerful reminder through Pastor Roberto Padinit’s message entitled “Called Now.”
Using the life of Samuel as an example, Pastor Roberto reminded the young people that God’s calling is not restricted by age. They do not have to wait until they are older, more experienced, or more accomplished before responding to God. They are called now.
The young people were challenged to live differently and to recognize the value of the years, strength, dreams, and opportunities God has entrusted to them. Pastor Roberto encouraged them, saying, “Do not waste your best years, strength, dreams, and future…”
After the service and the evening meal, the participants gathered for a meaningful time of sharing. Many expressed how much they valued the opportunity to gather together again after a two-year break. Despite demanding schedules and numerous responsibilities, they had chosen to make time for the camp and to honor God through their participation. They testified that the Lord had given them favor and enabled them to be present.
The final night became one of the most memorable moments of the gathering. Laughter, conversations, testimonies, and fellowship filled the evening. The young people wished that the night would not end. Although the gathering eventually came to a close, the memories formed and the lessons learned would continue to live in their hearts.
On the final morning, Brother John Paul, one of the young people, led the devotional. He reminded the participants that if there was one thing they should carry with them after the camp, it was the Word of God.
That message was reinforced during the morning worship service as Pastor Mark emphasized the importance of God’s Word in the life of every believer. The young people were reminded that passion must be anchored in truth and that leadership must be grounded in God’s Word.
The camp officially concluded with a closing program where the winners of the games and Project Pitch Competition were recognized. Yet, the conclusion of the program was not the conclusion of the mission.
The Northern Mindanao Youth Camp 2026 may have ended, but the work entrusted to the young people—and the work that must be done through them—continues.
The gathering was more than three days of activities, worship, fellowship, workshops, and competitions. It was a reminder that a generation is waiting to be discipled and that the church has a responsibility to prepare them not merely to survive the challenges of their time, but to faithfully live out God’s purposes in the midst of them.
The Northern Mindanao region hopes that this camp will become more than a memorable gathering. It hopes that it will become the beginning of a movement—a generation awakened by the Holy Spirit, anchored in God’s Word, strengthened through discipleship, and equipped for the harvest.
The goal is not simply to produce young people who know how to lead. It is to raise disciples who know Whom they follow, understand why they are called, and are willing to help others follow Christ.
Tomorrow’s generation will eventually become today’s leaders, parents, ministers, workers, and disciplers. Therefore, the responsibility cannot be postponed. The church must invest in them now, walk with them now, teach them now, equip them now, and release them now.
The camp has ended. The mission has not. Tomorrow’s generation is today’s mission—and the work starts now.
