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by Cadet Lisa Smith –
The atmosphere at Crestmont was electric as 218 young adults from around the territory gathered with divisional youth leaders for the annual Life Service Conference. Guided by the theme “Equipped to Serve,” delegates joined to seek the Lord and consider his calling upon their lives for ministry and service.
Friday evening’s keynote session got the weekend off to a enthusiastic start as Major Terry Griffin, training principal, and the cadets of the Builders of the Kingdom session presented a dynamic program filled with music and celebration. On Saturday morning, special guest John Fischer spoke eloquently on how to find God and his purposes even in the midst of the “mundane” chores of life.
Delegates had the choice of three workshop tracks for the rest of Saturday’s sessions. In the Lay Ministry track, under the leadership of Major Anne Pickup and L.A. Red Shield Director Irene Lewis, delegates looked at examples of effective lay ministry and learned about spiritual gifts and leadership within the body of Christ.
The Officership track, under the leadership of Captains Gene and Irene Ragan and Lieutenants Rob and Stacy Birks, gave delegates first-hand information on discerning God’s call, preparing for ministry, and discovering the realities of life as an officer.
In the Candidate track, led by the College for Officer Training staff, delegates received vital information regarding preparation for training college and officership. The day was capped off by an inspirational concert by John Fischer.
The Tterritorial Youth Department is responsible for planning this annual conference. “I believe we fulfilled our purpose for the weekend, which was to share the importance of everyone’s part in ministry within the body of Christ, and specifically, how to become equipped for that service,” stated Major Rudy Hedgren, territorial youth and candidates’ secretary.
During Sunday morning’s Holiness meeting, many responded to Commissioner Peter Chang’s challenge to increased commitment in Christian service. More than 60 responded to the call to officership, with dozens more making significant decisions to deepen their commitment to God and their ministry within the Army.