How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! 1 John 3: 1 Presence Youth Conference returned once again in July to inspire the next generation to rise up for the harvesting of soul for their generation. Themed ‘Fatherly Love’, the conference set out to soak youth in the overflowing love and grace of God, to equip them in their identity as a child of God. It was a wondrous experience to witness God asHe moved and embraced the crowd in His presence.
The conference kick-started with a fun-filled ice-breaking that gave participants the opportunity to know one another. It was followed by a plenary session where Pastor Joshua provoked their minds on what really matters in life. They were then brought to Vision City – a city of reality.
This year, the conference has added Vision Game to enhance the impact on the youths through experiential learning. Filled with war and peace; hunger and prosperity, Vision City put the participants in the struggles of life. In their chase for survival, they were challenged to ponder upon the purpose in life: their vision and calling in accordance to the heart of God who loves them.
Various workshops were held throughout the conference to equip youths with the nuts and bolts of evangelism. Participants were also given the opportunity to share their testimony to encourage one another.
Evangelistic Night, the final night of Presence 17 was full of the glory of God. The Lost Child, a musical drama depicting the story of ‘The Prodigal Son’ stirred the hearts of the congregation, reminding them of the immeasurable love of a father that is both unyielding and unconditional.
“God’s love is wide, long, deep and high!” Presence Conference was honoured to have Pastor Joel Burden as the main speaker. A man of humbleness and passion, his faith touched the crowd as he spoke of the endless love of Christ. He reminded us of the boundless love of God, where neither race nor culture differentiate us from one another. The child of God was no longer a slave to differences. In Him, we are His children. 41 of our participants responded and decided to rededicate their life to Jesus. The night ended with shouts of praise as 7 generations stood before the stage in conviction of the greatness of God.
Behold, I am with you and will keep you wherever you go, and will bring you back to this land; for I will not leave you until I have done what I have promised you. Genesis 28: 15
On the last day of Presence 17, God’s loving hand showered comfort and blessings as the participants wrote letters to their father/parents. His faithfulness overwhelmed the hall as He lifted every worry and fear, which in turn, placed courage and boldness in restoring relationships. He poured out his fatherly love and to none but all, He calls His child.
Written by Sandy Ong