Special Edition
I Am The Church
magazine
Responsibility. Is it in you? God says “Yes!”
Blueprint
We have the tools you need to design your plan of action for Christ
Plus * iPress ft. Zoe Fisher & Marqwan Sirls * “The Voice” Devotional * Full Youth Congress Guide * Purpose by Design
Do You Believe? DeVon Franklin speaks on having more faith and less fear in “Produced by Faith”
2 3
1 4
experience
a hardwood pulpit
Scan this QR code or visit www.ucollege.edu/chavez to see Chavez tell his story.
experience union college 1 When Chavez arrived at
contact us 3 Mentors—including his
4 Now his professors teach him
Union, he knew he loved
basketball coach—helped
how to give a sermon, and his
preaching and basketball.
Chavez take a shot at his
coaches teach him how to
dream and switch his major
live one.
2 The thought of Greek scared him into studying computers.
to theology.
Find your calling on the court, in the classroom or anywhere else. Call 800.228.4600 to schedule a FREE visit to Union. We’ll even help cover the travel costs.
www.ucollege.edu enroll@ucollege.edu p (800) 228-4600 f (402) 486-2566
3301 Parallel Parkway * Kansas City, KS 66104 * Phone 913-371-1071* Fax 913.371.1609 * www.central-states.org
April 2012
Dear Youth of Central States Conference,
It is my pleasure to welcome you to Youth Congress 2012 in Denver, Colorado.
The conference theme, I Am the Church, represents how we were made to be connected to God, to the church community, and to serving in the world He loves. Each of you is unique and a special gift to the church.
Elder Hinds and his staff have toiled many hours seeking to make this weekend a blessed event for you. It is their earnest desire, and mine, that as a result of attending, you will leave here renewed in the mission of being transformed and of bringing hope to the world!Let us be known as a Christian community engaging the culture in every arena. Let us build mission outposts for the kingdom of God. Let us call each other to action and commitment. As Christ-followers, we have the highest calling imaginable! So let’s not just go to church, but be the church! To Him be the glory,
Charles W. Drake, III President
Roger A. Bernard Vice President for Administration
Charles W. Drake, III President
Tonya L. Anderson Vice President for Finance
COLORADO * IOWA * KANSAS * MINNESOTA * MISSOURI * NEBRASKA * NORTH DAKOTA * SOUTH DAKOTA * WYOMING
1
CONTENTS APRILvolume 2012 1 | number 1
B2BMAG.CO
features 4 Youth Congress Guide Schedule at a Glance 8 Workshop Descriptions and Locations 11 Purpose by Design 1
on the
18 Purpose by Design 2
Do You Believe? - 20
26 Chaperone Guidelines, Rules, Regulations 28 2012 Federation Temperance Winners
LIKE US ON FACEBOOK Back to Basics Magazine (B2B)
Publisher/Editor: Brittany N. Winkfield Contributing Writers: Kymone Hinds, Aaron Niequist, Donald Rolle Contributing Photographers/Designers: Fresh Impact Public Relations Group, LLC, Winkz Designs Information is correct at press time. Check www.b2bmag.co for updates. Back to Basics (B2B) Magazine is published bi-monthly by the Central States Conference. Signed articles do not necessarily reflect the official company policy. Copyright © 2012. All rights reserved. Reproduction in part or whole without permission is prohibited. Back to Basics is registered in the United States Trademark Office.
2
cover
I Am The Church - 16 iPress: Features on Zoe Fisher and Marqwan Sirls - 12 “The Voice” Devotional - 30 The Blueprint - 32
Congratulations on participating in the 2012 Youth Congress event in Denver, Colorado! Back to Basics (B2B) Magazine is for the youth, by the youth. There is no better time than now to get back to the basics in living. We are facing the end, which means that we are too close to lose sight of our goal. God has given us Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth, the Bible. B2B Mag is here not only to inform and inspire, but to also simplify our walk with Christ by providing content that excites and encourages young people, giving you a forum to express yourself.
City and County of Denver Michael B. Hancock Mayor
OFFICE OF THE MAYOR CITY AND COUNTY BUILDING DENVER, CO 80202-5390 TELEPHONE: (720) 865-9090 • FAX: (720) 865-8787 TTY/ TTD: (720) 865-9010
April 19, 2012
Central States Conference Seventh-day Adventist Crowne Plaza DIA Convention Center 155000 East 40th Ave Denver, CO 80239 Greetings: It is my honor to extend a “Mile High” welcome as you gather for your youth and young adult conference in Denver, Colorado. As the future leaders of this community and the country it is exciting to hear that you are embracing the very real topic of “I Am the Church.” You are indeed the church and in today’s society you must have the courage to stand up for what you believe. The activities that are planned for the next several days are designed to teach, empower and provide practical application of ministry. Random acts of kindness can go a long way in touching people’s lives and showing God’s love. While you are here, we hope you will have an opportunity to enjoy some of the amenities that Denver has to offer. There are many dining, shopping and entertainment options available to you in the Northfield Stapleton area, just minutes from the hotel. Once again, welcome to Denver and it is our hope that you will have an enjoyable and informative conference. Sincerely,
Michael B. Hancock Mayor 3
Schedule at a Glance Thursday and Friday Thursday April 19 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Registration & Check in
Hotel
1:00 pm -
6:00 pm
Exhibitor Display
Room E
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Youth Workshops
Various Rooms
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Parents Train Up (Parents of Children)
Durango
3:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Kid’s Kongress Worship
Telluride
6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Dinner – on your own
7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
General Session – Pastor Jaime Kowlessar
Convention Center
9:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Recreation
Room E
11:00 pm
Curfew
Friday April 20 7:00 am – 8:30 am
Breakfast – Chat & Chew
Room E
8:30 am – 9:30 am
General Session – Pastor Jaime Kowlessar
Convention Center
9:30 am – 12:00 pm
Amazing Service Race
Off-site
9:30 am – 12:00 pm
Kid’s Kongress
Telluride
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Lunch
Room E
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Young Adult Summit Registration
Hotel
1:00 am – 5:00 pm
Kid’s Kongress Fun Land
Telluride
2:30 pm – 5:30 pm 2:30 pm – 5:30 pm
Workshops Parents Train Up (Parents of Teens)
Various Rooms Durango
5:45 pm – 6:45 pm
Dinner - Colleges Presentation
Room E
7:00 pm – 8:45 pm
General Session – DeVon Franklin
Convention Center
7:00 pm – 8:45 pm
Kid’s Kongress Worship
Telluride
9:00 pm - 10:30 pm
Young Adult Café Worship
Crested Butte
9:00 pm – 10:30 pm
Delegate Concert
Convention Center
11:30 pm Curfew 4
Schedule at a Glance Sabbath and Sunday Sabbath April 21 7:00 am – 8:30 am
Breakfast – Chat & Chew
Hotel
9:00 am - 10:15 am
Plenary Session (Teens) – Dr Lindsay Warren
Vail
9:00 am - 10:15 am
Plenary Session (Young Adults) – DeVon Franklin Crested Butte
9:00 am - 10:15 am
Parents Train Up (Parents of Teens & Children)
Durango
9:00 am – 12:30 pm
Kid’s Kongress
Telluride
10:30 am – 12:30 pm
General Session – Pastor Eddie Hypolite
Convention Center
1:00 pm – 2:30 pm
Lunch - Chat & Chew
Room E
3:00 pm -
4:30 pm
Parents Train Up (Parents of Teens & Children)
Durango
3:00 pm -
4:30 pm
Young Adult Summit
Crested Butte
4:00 pm – 4:30 pm
Temperance Registration
Convention Center
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Temperance Rally
Convention Center
8:30 pm – 11:00 pm
Celebrity Concert
Convention Center
1:00 am
Curfew
Sunday April 22 7:00 am – 8:30 am
Breakfast
Room E
7:30 am - 9:00 am
Youth Leader Meeting
Vail
11:00 am Checkout Hotel
Communication Methods For Information Call 1-800-304-3010 To Receive Text Updates: Text iamthechurch to 59769 To dialog via Twitter use the hashtag #iamthechurch
5
center for youth evangelism:
youth ministry CYE, located at the Andrews University Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary for over 30 years, exists to support your ministry.
RESOURCES
MEDIA
NETWORK
The practical theology of youth evangelism
The implementation and practice of youth evangelism
The application of current technology for youth evangelism
The support network for youth evangelism
Articles Baptism Bible Studies Books Children’s Ministry Church of Refuge DMin and MA Links Research Seminars Speakers Bureau WeCare Mission Trips Youth Evangelism Award
180° Symposium Bible Summit Cruise with a Mission Faith Discovery Tours International Camporee Music & Worship Conf. Standout—High School
Apps Facebook Google Internet Radio MP3 Newsletters Podcast TV Twitter Video
Blogs Donors Ideas Partners: CM Radio Easter Passion Play The One Project Sponsors
Call: 1.269.471.8380 Write: info@cye.org Visit: www.cye.org Follow: aucye @aucye
Left to right: Japhet De Oliveira, Director Ron Whitehead, Executive Director Tibor Shelley, Assistant Director
6
EVENTS
ǡ
ǡ Dz Ǥdz Ǧ ǯ Ǥ
Ǥ Ǧ Ǥ ǡ ǡ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ Ǣ ǡ ǡ Ǯ ǯ Ǯ ǯ Ǯ Ǥǯ ǡ Ǥ ǡ Ȃ ǡ ǡ Ǥ ǯ Ǥ
Ǥ Ǥ ǡ Ǥ ǥ ǥǤ Ǥ Ǥ
ǡ ǡ ǡ ǡ Ǥ Ǥ Ǥ ǡ ǥ ȋ ǡ Ȍ
7
Workshop Descriptions and Location KIM PEARSON
I Am Talented
Think you’ve got Talent? Are you wondering how to REALLY use your gifts for God? Then this workshop is for you. We’ll get creative & explore what your gifts are and how God wants you to use them to make a difference in your church, community, and yourself. You’ll learn how you can take your Talents from Hobby to Ministry in a BIG way. Peter Casillas
Me, Myself and No One Else…think AGAIN!
Through the lenses of today’s cultures, we explore how the Bible with a similar culture, views God and the Church as an apologetic answer to the questions; Why God? & Why Church? The challenge is not the answer that the Bible provides – but the story and its carrier. Can the carrier become a conductor through which revelation is gained and experienced? Denique Morris
Handling Power Struggles in Church
Feeling frustrated and considering leaving your church? Before you decide to stick it out or jump ship; stop by this interactive workshop. In a small group setting, we’ll discuss how to handle conflicts, re-ignite your passion, and deal with the discouragement that can lead to apathy. Come and be empowered to affect change! Thalia Stewart
ENVISION-ing
This workshop will explain the main aspects to quality photography. See the world the way God intended, with an eye for beauty in all things. Be one of the designated photographers from this session to photograph the I AM the Church Congress activities, even developing a “mock” magazine/newsletter in the end. MUST HAVE A CAMERA to attend this workshop. Eddie Hypolite
Conformers and Transformers
Going beyond being in the world, but not of the world - this workshop focuses on the social issues facing Christian young people, especially those that directly affect their faith life. It’s aim is to help young people celebrate faith in a secular post Christian society. Jaime Kowlessar
No Church in The Wild
Is it possible to be a lover of God and a lover of hip hop? Check out this workshop to understand the roots and origins of hip hop culture. Think you’ve heard it all? Think again and learn ways to equip ourselves to make disciples of all people.
8
Workshop Descriptions and Location Dr. Lindsay Marsh Warren
Ten Choices To Keep You Out of Trouble
With the rise of experimental behaviors and glamorization of teen pregnancy, this life-changing session is a transparent, real discussion surrounding sexually purity, restoration and making Godly choices in the midst of the sexploitation of our day. Attendees will be challenged to be the ‘STANDARD’, instead of the ‘STATISTIC’. Understand your worth, your value and your covenant swagger. It’s time to be swaggstinent ....because YOU ARE WORTH THE WAIT! AUDrA MARK WELLS
The Bible, Anthropology, and the Ancient Caveman
God created man in His image; yet, there are bones that show evidence of manlike beasts. There is a plausible explanation for caveman! There is a connection between the Antediluvian scientists and the scientists of today. This presentation shows that evolution is a hoax and that Christ is coming soon! DeVOn FranKLIN
Produced by Faith
You are the movie. This workshop parallels each step of the Hollywood filmmaking process with the faith-making process God uses to turn your career into a success. You will discover that it is possible to be both wildly successful and completely committed to God—and that you will be even more successful when you place your faith at the center of your career. LAKETIA CARRELL Let’s Shape Some Futures This workshop will teach parents how to shape their child’s future from infancy up. It will give them positive parenting strategies designed to instill Christian character and encourage excellent behavior. LAKETIA CARRELL
Breaking the Generational Curse of Poverty Mentality
This workshop teaches parents how to promote prosperity thinking in their children. It will teach Biblically based principles of finance. It will also explore irrational beliefs that contribute to living in poverty. LAKETIA CARRELL
Developing Spirituality in Children and Teens
This workshop will give practical strategies that promote a healthy spiritual relationship in children and teens…without ruining your relationship with them. LAKETIA CARRELL
Motivating the Unmotivated Teen/Child
This workshop will give practical strategies to motivate unmotivated and uncooperative teens/children. Learn positive parenting strategies, calm communication strategies, and how to deescalate arguments. 9
i am southwestern
SCAN ME WITH YOUR SMART PHONE!
Helping YOU perform better: • $23,906 (tuition, room/board, and fees) –one of the lowest tuition rates of all Adventist Universities • $2,000–$8,000 in freshman scholarships based on GPA+ACT/SAT scores • Up to $4,000 in transfer scholarships • Over 75 endowed scholarships and awards • Three Masters programs • $4,740,000 scholarships and grants awarded in 2010-2011
10
I am performing better. Pre-med study is intense and time-consuming. Lori spends hours in biology and chemistry labs, but it doesn’t occupy all her energies. She is also an accomplished flutist, performing both as a soloist and as a member of Southwestern’s highly regarded wind symphony. If you’re looking for opportunities, Southwestern has 67 academic programs at a school known for its friendly students and accessible campus. Plan to visit Southwestern and find out how to take your performance to the next level.
Don’t delay, APPLY TODAY!
800-433-2240 · 817-202-6794 · www.swau.edu
PURPOSE BY DESIGN Responsibility Who am I? I am who God says I am. I am a child of the King, so that makes me royalty. No, it’s not vanity, but a responsibility to take good care of me. So what do I do? I eat right and drink plenty of water so my inside will look as good as my outside. It’s not vanity, but I have a responsibility to take care of my temple. It’s just that simple. So I’m not hanging out all times of the night. I’m getting my proper rest so I can win the fight against Satan who wants to steal my mind. Get thee behind me Satan. You’re not my kind. No, it’s not vanity, but a responsibility to take good care of me. So when the cute guys come my way oh Heaven, they say, you’re so cute, you’re so fine, what I gotta do girl to make you mine? I keep my members in check. I’ve just seen too many ladies living a wreck just because they didn’t hold fast to the promise that would last. Is it vanity? No, it’s not vanity, but I have a responsibility to take good care of me.
Heaven Persaud Music Man Using Satan in Creativity Music on my iPod I play it everyday. I got music on my phone and it’s on replay. You wanna go Yonkers, better hit up finish line, I’m runnin up to heaven, gotta get there on time. So take care Drake holy hip hop on my mind. Listen up, listen up, I want you all to hear like Kanye West I want Jesus to walk by here. Guard your ears close ya eyes and cover ya mouth. You know we got that fire make you wanna shout. The point of the rhyme to watch what you hear. Because you know the King is near.
Devon Sterling, Travis Turner 11
iPress: Zoe Fisher “There will be days where heaven does not seem so close. When there seems like there’s no hope and your back is hugging the ropes, there will be times when your at your lowest point: Strive.� -Miles Hodges and Carvens Lissaint
Q & A 12
What is your top priority? Going to College, especially one not in Colorado. If you knew the world was ending in 2012, what would you do differently? I would be a lot more honest about how I feel. I bite my tongue a lot because people say it's good manners and its respectful but sometimes I hold on to things that make me really upset. It just eats at me and that's not cool to harbor to that anger and they don't even know it made you upset. So I'm trying to be more honest now. If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? Probably dance, I like to think that I can dance but I don't think really can. Or draw.
When you have 30 minutes of free-time, how do you pass the time? I would remake a song on the piano or write something. Have you ever had something happen to you that you thought was bad, but it turned out to be for the best? I always thought I was missing out on something by not going to homecoming, so this year I went and realized it's the most grotesque thing I've ever witnessed and not going before was such a blessing. The scene was just caustic, my eyes are still burning.
What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done? Me and my grandfather had the same birthday. So I feel like I had a special connection to him. He died about a month before our birthday my freshman year and everything happened really fast and sporatic, it just was a lot for me to handle. My emotions were really erratic that by the time of the funeral, I just didn’t want to mourn him anymore. I was tired of crying I just wanted to send him off with a serene feeling. I tried not to cry that day and that was the hardest thing I’ve ever done. Looking back, I don’t really know why I did it. What was the last experience that made you a stronger person?
Performing a piece in class that talked about what it's like to a girl and what it's like to be black in a room full of my peers. It was just a real truth moment in my life because people always ask me what's it like to go to a pretty colorless school and I tried to express it in the best way i knew how. What’s the #1 most played song on your iPod? The Heart pt. 2 by Kendrick Lamar and That Power by Childish Gambino
I AM THE CHURCH So me and my friend were messing around one day and were doing poetry to piano and it sounded pretty good, so now we plan do that sometimes at our sabbath school or for our concerts. We also collaborated our talents for a concert that raised money for the street boys of Sudan. I also like putting on poetry nights and socials just to bring us together to fellowship as teens and hang out and chill. I’m working to make a video ministry because I feel technology disseminates faster and will reach more people more effectively. IGen (Impact Generation) has given me a lot of the tools and ideas for my ministry. They really trained me how to lead and think of out of the box ministries that can bring people in the church and our community together.
13
iPress: Marqwan Sirls
“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” - Dr. Seuss
Q & A 14
What is your top priority? My education in education, so I can work in the field of education in order for more youth to be educated. If you knew the world was ending in 2012, what would you do differently? I would read my bible more and not procrastinate.
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? I would learn how to sing and play all the instruments in the world. Then I would be rich and famous for singing and playing all the instruments in the world. Then I would start a school on how to sing and play all the instruments in the world. Then I would die being the only person that could sing and play all the instruments in the world. Then people would visit my memorial in the Kansas City Jazz Museum and it would say, “The only man that sung and played all the instruments in the world. And, he was black.” When you have 30 minutes of free-time, how do you pass the time? I either browse the web, run, work on poetry or eat. I mostly eat.
Have you ever had something happen to you that you thought was bad, but it turned out to be for the best? There was this crazy girl who I thought I would marry and live happily ever after with. We broke up and it sucked at the time but some other occurrences helped me to see the beauty in that failed relationship. Amen!
What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done? I climbed a volcano this year that erupted in 1999. It’s elevation is 2,388 feet (we traveled a bit further considering we hiked diagonal). But, the most difficult thing about this climb was that, with every step you took, your foot would slide back a few inches because of the volcanic rocks. Nevertheless, we made it to the top and saw an ounce of God's glory. What was the last experience that made you a stronger person?
Serving in the area that had the volcano (Nicaragua). I learned a lot about myself and what privilege really is. It's not wealth, education, access to good health care or being white. God will provide your needs, wisdom and health regardless of who you are. Privilege actually, according to my experience, is being able to find a lot of time to be present and with God. Money can't give you a better feeling. (Privilege is being able to believe that.) What’s the #1 most played song on your iPod? "Nu Creature" by Mali Music What story does your family always tell about you?
When I was just a little toddler, I was in the car with my Nanna in the passenger side. At some point I must've been looking up in the clouds. Then I turned to Nanna and said, "Nanna. Is God in the clouds?" She said, "Yes He is." I continued to look in the clouds confused. Then I asked, "Well why doesn't He fall out?"
I AM THE CHURCH Right now I'm working on a video project for youth congress that peeks into the lives and minds of some individuals who are doing a lot for their churches and communities. Hopefully, it will inspire other youth to claim their identity as "the church" so they can also spiritually enhance their environments. I'm also working on a book or CD of poetry I'm going to call "unmanufactured." In short, these songs/poems urge society to love and believe in the way God created them and fall out of love and belief in the way that popular culture has manufactured them.
15
B2B Feature: I Am The Church Church is
Aaron Niequist
Bigger Than the Church
Why ministry doesn’t begin and end with the pulpit. For the last 35 years, one of the most anthemic phrases around my church is this one: “the church is the hope of the world.” I couldn’t agree more. The Almighty God is actively healing and redeeming the entire world, and doing it primarily through human beings who are willing to offer themselves to this movement. You can be God’s hands and feet as you teach middle school math. You can be a part of God’s Movement of grace while wearing your blue Best Buy shirt. You can help heal the world as you bag groceries. The same can be said for those who are employed by a church. But the opposite can also be true. You can hide from God as you wait tables, and you can hide from God while preaching sermons. The scriptures remind us that “People look upon the outside appearance, but God looks at the heart.” So if you are a pastor or church-worker, please continue to pour out your heart and life for your community, but let’s not think of ourselves more highly than we ought. And if you don’t work at a church, please continue to pour out your heart and life for your community, and take your calling to ministry very seriously. The world desperately needs each one of us. God has invited every person to join His work of redemption - whether we’re wearing a clerical collar or an orange construction vest.
So for all of us who pastor, lead, and work at churches, here’s the question that keeps me up at night: How can we help foster this reality? What kind of church trains and launches people into the ministry of their every day lives, and what kind of church trains and retains people to receive the ministry of the church? This is obviously a huge question – and I don’t claim to be a church leadership expert in any way – but I can’t shake this thought: I am way more compelled by a church OF the people than a church FOR the people. Church as a movement rather than an institution. A church created by the people rather than consumed by the people. A few examples… In a church FOR the people, worship means: Come hear our most gifted artists provide a worship experience that will inspire and bless you. When it’s done, you’ll want to give them a round of applause and thank God for giving such great gifts. In a church OF the people, worship becomes: Prayerful, intentional space that empowers the people to cocreate a worship experience – both as individuals and as a body, both at home and when together. The church helps people connect with God and each other, and then gets out of the way.
16
In a church FOR the people, evangelism means: Bring your friend to church to hear the pastor explain the truth to them. It exports evangelism to the expert, and often reduces the sweeping Story of God to presented information. In a church OF the people, evangelism becomes: Training up disciples and launching them out to serve the world and share their story…and helping foster a community so alive and beautiful that people can’t wait to join. In a church FOR the people, mission means: Give your money to the church so it can take care of the poor. You write a check and they’ll take it from there.
But in a church OF the people, mission declares: “No one knows the poor in your town better than you. Let us help you serve them. And if you don’t know the poor in your town, following Jesus means that you’ll need to make some changes. Please let us help you humbly engage, learn from, and serve the poor in your town.” Obviously, these are exaggerated examples for clarity. Most churches I’ve been a part of are both, but tend to lean one way or the other. And it’s my personal hope that this year, every faith community will inch a bit more in the Church OF the People direction – developing and unleashing the supernatural potential of every woman, man, and child. And this year I commit to humbly and constructively use any opportunity I’m given to help and get swept up in this Movement. What an honor and responsibility it is for every single one of us to be the potential hands and feet of God! So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ. (Eph 4:11-13) Aaron Niequist is a worship leader at Willow Creek, a songwriter, and the curator of “A New Liturgy” – which is a collection of modern liturgical worship experiences. http://www.aaronniequist.com 17
PURPOSE BY DESIGN It’s really very simple My body is His temple So when you deal with me Remember I’m sacred and holy You can’t just step to me any kind of way You better have something of substance to say Don’t step to me with all that vain repetition Because I guarantee that won’t get you any attention Respect my value Recognize my beauty Honor who I am And walk softly in my sanctuary
Date Night with God I put it on my calendar, said that I’d call. Told him I was sick, that’s not true at all. Limiting our relationship, I stood him up last week. Went to his house today, but we still didn’t speak. I know I shouldn’t cheat, but Satan is so tempting. He helps me make up all these excuses I’m inventing. Preventing me from enjoying my date night with God. Applauding me for all my deception and my fraud. So we broke up, then I woke up. And I spoke up to my first love. He forgave me, then saved me, And erased me of my thirst of, The world and its imperfections. He is the fine tuner. Now everyday I pray that date night will come sooner.
Aleah Bradshaw
Jordan Anderson Bria Bernard Priscilla Josiah Reaia Turner-Leatherman
GAMERS Hey DayDay put down that game and let’s go shoot some hoop. I’m on level ten about to win the Loopty Loop. Let’s get some real action to keep our bodies strong. Video games all day, man that’s just wrong. You’re fryin ‘your brain, gain insane and getting fat. But look Willie can’t you see where I’m at? I can’t stop! I really tried. I think I’m hooked! Have you tried praying to God, reading His Book? Our bodies are His Temple, He’ll help you win this fight. OK. I don’t like basketball, but let’s go ride our bikes.
Willie Vinson, Deleion Whitcomb-Powell
20
Faith without works is dead... it ultimately comes down to do you believe? Â That is the moral of Jesus. 21
Trail Blaze Can you enjoy real success without compromising your beliefs and what you know to be true? We caught up with DeVon Franklin, author of Produced by Faith, to learn about his inspiring story of how he stepped out on faith. It’s time to decide. Do you believe? By Brittany Winkfield One of the main stories DeVon Franklin tells in his book, Produced by Faith, is about 10 years ago when he was working for Overbrook Entertainment, Will Smith’s company. DeVon interned for Will his entire college career and, upon graduation, worked for Will’s manager for a year and a half. It was at this time that DeVon was hoping to make the jump from assistant to executive. He found himself frustrated and depressed because he thought he was going to get promoted to become an executive, but unfortunately that did not happen due to major cutbacks. 10 years ago DeVon was trying to figure out how he was going to get to the next level. Feelings of anger and disappointment entered in because of the reality of the situation.
22
One day Franklin came into the office and was so distraught. He tells the story of how he went to the bathroom and really prayed to God. He said “God you have to get me out of here today. Anything I ask for in the name of Jesus you said you would do. In the name of Jesus you have to do something on this job today because I don’t really know what I’m supposed to do.” Later on that evening his boss called him in his office and says “Look, we wish we could help you, but we cant because the company is not set up that way.” His boss offered to assist DeVon in his job search. Will Smith himself even offered to help. He set DeVon up with his agent and he sent him on some interviews, but nothing happened. With so much uncertainty and no direction, DeVon attended Bishop T. D. Jakes’ service in LA. He preached a sermon called “Turning the Page.” Bishop Jakes illustrated the story at the end of Deuteronomy after Moses died and the Israelites are mourning. DeVon
23
remembers Bishop Jakes explaining that when you turn the page, at the beginning of Joshua, God tells the Israelites, you have to get up and go to the promised land. “That really motivated me because I was mourning my job and that job was not coming back,” explains Franklin. That pivotal moment motivated DeVon to go in the following week and turn in his two weeks notice. He had to step out on faith and said “Lord, I don’t know where the next job is coming from, but I’m going to turn the page on my situation and step out on faith and have the courage to trust you.” People didn’t understand what he was doing. Through fasting and prayer, DeVon really wanted God’s will in his life and believe what He was doing in his life. DeVon left his job unemployed. The following Monday he received a call from Tracey Edmonds. He started working for Edmonds Entertainment as a junior executive in Development literally the following week. “It’s amazing to me to see God really work, and when we put Him to the test, He really works!” “It was a very valid lesson to me that faith was going to be the thing to make a difference in my career and I had to get used to living a life of faith.” Not being afraid to step out and sometimes do things that traditionally seem to not make sense, but spiritually they make absolute sense, is DeVon’s message to young people. The goal for his work is to touch as many people as possible. “There is this “fear factor” embedded in us,” says DeVon. “When you live in fear, by definition, fear is the hindrance. So we are raising a generation of young people that are hindered. Instead of teaching them the power of faith, we instill in them the power of fear.” God says that I created you to do this and I put this dream in your heart and the only way you can get there is through faith. In the book of Timothy, Paul says the Lord did not give us a spirit of fear, but of love… and a sound mind. Franklin’s mission is to encourage this generation that you cannot live in fear. You cannot let people tell you what you can and can’t do. God is the only person who has a determination on your destiny. “You have to step out more, you have to trust your instincts more and you have to listen for His voice more. Faith without works is dead. You have to put works behind your faith and it ultimately comes down to do you believe? That
is the moral of Jesus,” explains Franklin. All of the healing that Jesus did predominately focused on belief according to your faith. Those ideas are still relevant to us in this generation. DeVon has a message to the new generation of young leaders: “Being Adventist is not a negative. Being Adventist is an asset. Being in the word, having a relationship with God, observing the Sabbath, are all things that are keys to your destiny. We happen to have a tremendous word and we need to learn how to apply that word to our everyday lifestyle. These principals will help us navigate through difficult situations. We have to look at it as a competitive advantage not as something that is keeping us from where God wants us to go. There are no limits as long as you put God’s will for your life first. You must want what He wants for you. I have faith in this generation. They really have the opportunity to overcome what could be pitfalls, because God has put in place the right people who can lead this generation.”
“
DeVon Franklin On...
I Am The Church
What wakes Things you do you up in the for fun Truthfully I morning? don’t have much
Sometimes you think it’s other people’s responsibility “I downtime. Between am the church” The practical and the preaching says this is me schedule, book realness of it is, and if I don’t do signings, executive I have to be at what I’m supposed schedule and the office. I have to do, there is no personal life, church. When you a job. There’s an downtime is my say I am something personal life, which expectation and it’s an identity you take accountability there is work to do. is not a lot. I try to for taking ownership If I don’t do it, it relax. I like going to movies as recreation. of the faith. It’s won’t get done. Also travel and empowering. reading.
LOVE
LIFE
When two people
Life is good.
come to an
Get out there and
understanding about
live your life!
their view on God,
Life experience
that’s where love
is one of the most
What’s up next
Sparkle is the movie I’m finishing up now. I can quote almost line for line.
important things you I’ll continue to make movies and write the foundation from need to be books, which I’m which a healthy successful. excited about. relationship can starts and that is
grow. 25
Chaperone Guidelines 1. All chaperones must be at least 21 years of age or older. 2. You are to provide 24 hour supervision over your delegates. You need to know where they are at all times. As far as possible, maintain visual contact with your delegates. 3. You are responsible for being well acquainted with the rules and regulations for Youth Congress and for seeing that your delegates are made aware of and follow them. 4. Make sure your delegates attend all worship and workshop sessions. 5. Make sure your delegates are in their rooms and quiet before the designated curfew each night. 6. Check to see if your delegates have their name badges and required tickets before leaving their rooms. They will not be able to participate in the activities or eat without proper identification. 7. Chaperones must pay for a delegate package in order to receive proper identification for this event. 8. Chaperones should carry on file with them, all necessary medical information on each of their delegates. 9. If you carry a cell phone, make sure your delegates have the number. If your delegates have cell phones, make sure you have their numbers as well. 10. Set parameters. Let your young people know before you leave what you expect of them.
26
Rules and Regulations 1. No excessive noise while staying in the hotel. No loud music, TV, etc. 2. Be courteous and respectful to the hotel staff and other guests. 3. No running in the hotel hallways or lobbies. 4. No playing on the elevators or in the stairwells. 5. At all times, maintain Christian-like behavior. 6. No defacing of hotel and school property. 7. Delegates are only allowed to enter their own hotel rooms. If you have not paid for a hotel room, do not stay overnight. 8. Do not loiter in the streets. 9. All delegates should attend all worship services and assigned workshops. 10. Curfew is 30 minutes after the last event has ended. 11. Always carry your Delegate Badge and carry your meal tickets. 12. Anyone caught without a Delegate Badge and is not a hotel guest will be asked to leave the hotel. 13. Chaperones are responsible for their delegates at all times. 14. Profane language, weapons, fighting, smoking, consumption of alcoholic beverages, or the use of illegal substances are not allowed. 15. Delegate must have a meal ticket in order to enter the meal hall. 16. No inappropriate displays of affection. 17. No cooking permitted in any room. No hot plate or cooking appliances are to be brought with you. 18. Do not abuse the maid service, be mindful and clean up after yourself. Do not leave the rooms trashed. 19. Proper attire is to be worn in public places. No bare feet, robes, slips or undergarments should be seen in public places. 20. Any room service, telephone calls, restaurant, business center, gift shop and lounge conveniences that you use are YOUR responsibility. You will be required to pay for these charges at checkout.
27
2012 FEDERATION TEMPERANCE WINNERS POEMS
Grades 1-4 Xavier Jackson Alyssa James Mishalyn Hitchings Rachel Niyonzima
GROUP POEMS
Grades 1-4 --
Grades 5-8 Gabrielle Moore Amaya Butler Alison Pooran Nitori Henderson Joseph Smittick
Grades 9-12 Laronda Caldwell Honaria Carriger Heaven Persaud Aleah Bradshaw
Grade College Alicea London
Grades 5-8 --
Grades 9-12 Au’Jane Patterson
Grade College Shawn Walls
Samuria Hall
Derran Bedward
Heaven Persaud Alex Johnson Zoe Fisher Aleah Bradshaw
JINGLES
Grades 1-4 Ja’Vyon Richard
GROUP JINGLES
Grades 1-4 Reaia TurnerLeatherman
Jordan Anderson Priscilla Josiah
Grades 5-8 Tykiana Rippitoe
Grades 9-12 Emmanuel Richard
Grade College -
Grades 5-8 Ana Davis
Grades 9-12 Emmanuel Richard
Grade College --
Gabrielle Moore
Justice Cox
Sahara Stevenson
Bria Bernard Isaiah Semakula
Delon Whitcom Powell
Devon Sterling
Michael Pullman
Willie Nelson
Travis Turner
Ameilleion Knox
Nitori Henderson
Roshana Noble
Derrion Smith
Terrell Henderson
Simone Akinde
Myka Eaves
Shalisha Harris
Tia Harris
Aysia Nealey
Naomi Tate Taryn Reid
28
Tomi Fediya
2012 FEDERATION TEMPERANCE WINNERS CARTOONS
Grades 1-4 Dashaia Hunter Azariah Harris Anabele Sahadeo
BILLBOARDS
Grades 1-4 Colbey Curtis Keldon Mosley Azariah Harris Anabele Sahadeo Madison Robinson
SHORT STORIES
Grades 1-4 --
COMMERCIAL
Grades 1-4 --
Grades 5-8 Jeremiah Brown Amaya Butler Jose Mitchell-Reyes Tyler Jackson
Grades 9-12 Darius Andrews Terry Henry Pseanna Barnes
Grade College --
Grades 5-8 Jeremiah Brown QuiNiah Lee Marchaun Jones Alison Pooran Portia Johnson
Grades 9-12 Mariah Barnett Terry Henry Maya Allen DeShon Maxwell
Grade College Marisa Jackson Myla Mann
Grades 5-8 Jarius Brown Branden Perkins Joseph Smittick Alison Pooran Alex Johnson
Grades 9-12 Danielle Moore
Grade College --
Grades 5-8 --
Grades 9-12 Eric Mayberry
Grade College --
Shalisha Harris Aysia Nealey Alaysha Harris Heaven Persaud
VIDEO
Grades 1-4 --
Grades 5-8 --
Grades 9-12 Alexis Williams
Grade College --
Ronnie Thornburg Nik Pooran Nick Nowrang Jeremy Pooran
GRAPHIC ARTS
Grades 1-4 --
TESTIMONIALS
Grades 1-4 --
Grades 5-8 --
Grades 9-12 Diamond Taylor
Grade College --
Grades 5-8 Branden Perkins Hunter Jackson
Grades 9-12
Grade College
29
The Voice Pastor Donald Rolle “They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak...as the Spirit enabled them” Acts 2:4 NBC’s “The Voice” is one of the latest, and some would argue, the best singing competition show on television. Some say this because of the process of how contestants are chosen: the judges sit with their backs to the contestants while they perform. They are not permitted to see them. And if a particular judge likes what they hear, they can opt to accept the contestant by turning around. This ‘blind audition’ concept is amazing! People are not judge based on their looks, but purely on the “Voice.” The beginning of Acts 2 is a little like “The Voice”, only here we see the inner workings of how these Christ-followercontestants got their “Voice” in the first place. The picture is painted of the disciples and other followers praying hard in the upper room, and while praying they cleared the air with one another- forgiving and getting on the same page. Then something amazing happened. The Holy Spirit came “like a violent wind” and rested in them and on them...fire. Now we get to the fun part where we get to break the scene down. The Spirit blows in the room, and then they go out into the community to share Christ. It’s almost as if the Spirit blew in the room to ‘blow them out’ into the world to make a difference. Jesus promised this would happen when he said “you will be my witnesses...to the uttermost parts of the world” Acts 1:8.
Truth As we think about doing stuff for God, we often fail to because we don’t feel worthy enough, or good enough. But here’s the truth, Jesus loves to use people who are ‘not good enough’. He loves to fix broken things while using it at the same time! Jesus is so mind-blowing. Let’s allow Christ to have his way with us, so that we can boldly lift up our “Voice.”
Our theme “I am the Church” is grabbing hold of that upper room moment. We have come to Denver from near and far to be together. To be more passionate followers. To know Him better, and to do His will in relevant ways. The Spirit is willing to blow into your life. Rearrange your ‘stuff’ and blow you out into the world to make a difference. When they were blown outside, they noticed that they had a new “Voice” (something to say, and a new way of saying it!). The thousands gathered were amazed. They said “how is it that each of us hear them in his own native language?” The Spirit gave the disciples the ability to talk about Christ in a manner that people best understood. As a result, many people turned around from living without Christ to loving Him. They were speaking God’s language in their own words and that helped people to choose Christ. God challenged us to go out to minister to people too, and its only while we are listening to Him that we realize that God has given us a “Voice.” A voice fit for the time at hand. Jesus makes us relevant. He gives us the ability to relate to people in ways they best understand. So don’t be afraid of what you’re going to say. I can only imagine that they apostles and others were shocked at what was happening to them, through them. Up until this time, speaking up for God was something only the priest, rabbis, prophets and teachers would do, but with them God switched the game up. Now anyone with a willing heart could be used! This is the only way the world got to know Him then, and the only way it’s going to get to know Him now. I get excited thinking about this first “I am the Church” movement we see in Acts. They went from a group in a room one day, to people coming into the Church daily. This was a powerful scene. The Lord showed me that the Church has always grown fastest and greatest when it was outside of a building. It grew most when the focus was outside instead of inside. Just maybe Jesus is trying to get us to do the same thing, to move outside of our comfort zone, and into the crisis areas where people are hurting. 30
31
Youth Congress this year wanted to break the mold by doing something drastic, something groundbreaking, and this 'something' was getting back to the Bible. Hence our theme "I am the Church". As I think about that powerful theme, I realize that we as young people are 'The Church', we don't just go to one. And since this is true, we have to get busy. We have to come up with a Game Plan to give "Church" a face-lift, or some swag. Because to be quite honest, the regular church as we know it has lost some swag (well let’s just be blunt, it's absolutely 'swagless', lol). "I am the Church" is translated to "You are the Church" Let’s do something bold and radical. Let’s break the rules and get out there, making a statement, starting a movement! Like some of the older folks say, 'it’s better to have tried, than to have not have tried at all.” Follow me with this thing the Lord hit me with. During Youth Congress and in the few days right afterward: Connect with Like-minded People. Find a few friends in your group or city that are actually down with the idea of a movement. We will be starting this Game Plan from scratch, so you have to get people that are interested in coming up with ideas and accomplishing the goals we set. Make sure you have someone good at logistics, like calling the group, setting up meetings, emailing the ideas and updates, facebooking, tweeting and ordering pizza- can't forget that. Come up with a Plan to Help People The Game plan is about us doing good for other people. When the "I am the Church" movement started in the book of Acts they did two simple things: 1. They helped people to know who Jesus really was and 2. Helped people live a better life, meaning they fed the hungry, took care of poor widows, visited prisoners, sacrificed their stuff for those who didn't have, the list goes on and on. We can do the same thing. So in this next step you will gather with your team, pray and find out a couple of things you would like to do to help people. Team up with Local People Once we have connected our hearts to a plan to help people, we're going to need to team up with local people. God always blesses us with people who can help us accomplish His goals (Read Nehemiah chap 1 & 2 if you don't believe me). First, go to your parents for help. They love to see us doing good for God. Second, go to your youth leader and Pastor. They too would love to help. Third, see if there are any organizations in the community already doing similar things to what you have in mind. They can offer advice, donate funds, or team up with you. Teamwork makes the Dreamwork. Go out and Reach the People Now comes the fun part. Once we have connected with people and came up with a 'Helps' game plan by teaming up with local people, it’s time to reach the people. We are moving outside the four walls, disturbing our comfort zone, going into the great unknown to reach someone who needs Jesus and a helping hand. Some Pointers, stay consistent with the dates you set, keep safety in mind, and trust that God is with you. And should you need any help at any time, the youth ministries team at Central States Conference will be more than happy to coach you along.
32
SN: Notice that when you go out to reach people, there will hardly ever be a big crowd with you. Jesus didn’t have big numbers with him, just 12 people!
35
36
Announcing
college days 2012 October 7-10, 2012
For more information, please contact: OAKWOOD UNIVERSITY Office of Enrollment Management 7000 Adventist Blvd. NW. Huntsville, Alabama 35896 Phone: (256) 726-7356 E-mail: admission@oakwood.edu Website: www.oakwood.edu