The Annual Conference Session felt a surge of energy as the Young People’s Ministry took the stage to the sounds of Toby Mac, and a media review of this year’s mission and retreats. Images from the initiatives included Stop Hunger Now and Hurricane Sandy relief efforts. Numerous delegates came forward to share various ways each of them embody leadership in their journeys of faith. In the 2013-2014 year, over 550 youth attended youth rallies across the conference. At these rallies thousands of meals were put together for Stop Hunger Now.
The Young People’s Ministry Council meets four to five times a year. YPMC oversees the Youth Service Fund, money raised by youth, distributed by youth, for the purpose of blessing youth. So far, the Annual Conference has raised over $3,100 for the Youth Service Fund. More information about YPMC can be found at www.igniteyoungpeople.org.
YPMC also represents and resources ministry with young adults. The purpose of this young adult contingent is to assist and model ministry within this age group.
Rev. Mike Bealla took a moment to express heartfelt thanks for the ministry of Rev. Warren Bevacqua, who led YPMC through numerous transitions in the conference. “Warren helped us become Internet savvy,” Bealla said, “as well as navigate important changes so that YPMC might be a place of deep resources.” At the same time, Bealla introduced Audrey Wilder as the new director of Young People’s Ministry.
The report ended with Bishop Jeremiah J. Park announcing that he would do one hundred push ups if the Young People’s Ministry Council would give $100 to the Bishop’s Partnership in Mission. The youth accepted the challenge, and the bishop did 110 push-ups.
