A special Youth Focus was held this month on March 2 during Winter Tabernacle Meetings. It started at 9:30 a.m. and the Fellowship Lodge was filled with young people from branch churches up and down the West Coast. A lovely breakfast was served that included fried chicken biscuit sandwiches with eggs and bacon, Cajun tater tots, and fruit salad. Aside from the normal beverage choices, there was also hot chocolate topped with home-made marshmallows, toasted right on the spot!

After breakfast, the youth migrated to the center of the room, where they participated in a survey led by Diana Erdmann. QR codes were scanned as they answered questions such as, “What experiences have you received from the Lord?” and, “What is a good thing happening in your life right now?” Encouraging answers quickly came in such as, “Being at special meetings,” “Spending time with close friends,” “Good prayer meetings,” and many other blessings. The activity ended and then Caleb Copko, along with a talented group of singers and musicians, led the youth in some songs, followed by prayer.

A study session was led by Seyi Akinrotimi from Pullman, Washington. It was titled “Broken or Crushed,” with a focus verse from Luke 20:18, “Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken; but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.” He explained that to be broken means suffering emotional pain that is so strong it changes the way one lives. Conversely, to be crushed is being subdued completely, and feeling overwhelmingly disappointed and embarrassed. In that state, there is condemnation and hopelessness. Expanding on the complexities of life, Brother Seyi listed the many challenges that young people face: pressure to succeed, financial stress, conflicting ideas of identity and gender, etc. These can be crushing, but he gave the group good news: Jesus is the rock, the cornerstone, and those who surrender to Him in brokenness will find salvation and hope.

The session closed with a time to kneel and pray. In the midst of a busy winter season, the morning was an encouraging time for all who attended!