Young People's Address

The Methodist church never ceases to amaze me. I sit right now in the afternoon session and they asked what everyone thought about the young people's address? There was not only a loud roar and audible yells of joy and appreciation. I have never heard more honesty and passion come out of young persons mouth than I have here today. Two youth, two college aged persons, and two young pastors spoke in a very unique and very honest way. Speaking from different parks of the arena, bringing in drums for breaks between speakers and transition, with lights that equaled a rock concert, and a passion from the mouths of youth was truly inspiring. There was a very diverse group of six persons from around. The lady from Russia spoke in her own native tongue and spoke on what seemed like similar issues that youth face today. A young gentleman spoke from the side of the arena and he spoke of diversity and coming together as a church. He closed with a great song of "God will take care of you". A fantastic young college person from Nebraska spoke directly to us in very honest tone of how he wants to see the church not divisive but together on all issues. I loved the way a young adult pastor from FUMC in Grand Junction Colorado spoke about churches needing a place for young people to belong. She challenged all churches to look within their own churches and see if it is an inviting place where young people want to be. Not only did he say to look within, but she also talked about looking beyond the walls of our own church. The young people today are in the cafes, bars, restaurants, parks, schools, and the outdoors. How are we reaching out to them and inviting them into our own churches? All of the speakers in some form or fashion spoke of letting our own agendas not interfere with what God's will is for us. They overwhelming say "LET GOD WORK!" Did I mention that this was the first ever young people's address at General Conference ever? My opinion - The best address yet of the conference. Are you surprised? I welcome you not only to read, but comment me back about my blog. Would love to answer questions or hear what you have to say. Stay tuned...