In the last days of the past year, the young people of the East European Union had a wonderful convention in Chernovtsy, Ukraine. Many young people—about 150—came from all sides of Ukraine, including the far end of Crimea (or Zakarpathia), Moldavia, Russia, and Romania. The themes presented and discussed were about fighting the good fight of faith, and obtaining the promised victory, based on 2 Timothy 4:7, 8. The three days of convention proved to be a very blessed occasion with many musical items, large participation in the workshops, and everything enveloped in a warm, enthusiastic atmosphere. The participation of the students who had just completed their training at the missionary school added an extra touch of encouragement and joy.
During the first weekend of this year, the Yugoslavian Union held in Stara Pazova a Youth Seminar on the precious truth of Christ Our Righteousness. The ongoing wrath of the enemy of souls against this subject was proven anew, by the unexpected refusal of the border patrol officers to allow the group of Romanians to enter the country, under the pretext of carrying religious materials. Each member of the group took this opportunity to pray and review his or her own relationship with the Lord, and to wait. Praise God that they were able to enter the country.
We spent a wonderful time studying the Word of God, sharing experiences, singing and discussing. The subject is extensive, and we hope to continue to deepen our understanding of it on future occasions as well.
From January 22–28, the youth in Chile had the opportunity to come together in a very blessed convention in the southern part of the country on the Pacific coast. In a lovely natural landscape in the school of a small village, Bahia Mansa (Peaceful Bay), the meetings were held under the general title, “Triumphant in Christ.” From all parts of Chile, the young and young-at-heart came to worship the Lord and gain courage. A very friendly atmosphere was established by God’s grace, and every moment of the convention was spent under the impression of His special blessing. At the conclusion of a wonderful week, everyone returned to their homes with new desires and goals.
The following week, the young people of Argentina had their convention in Buenos Aires, at the Ciudadela Church, where the headquarters of the Union are located. This was almost the fourth week spent by the youth in spiritual meetings. During the first three weeks all of the brethren had been instructed in a seminar on missionary work, and this fourth week was dedicated especially to programs for the youth, under the title “Renewal and Victory.” The youth choir practiced and sang beautifully. The team of instructors did a good job as well. Day by day they rediscovered the sweetness of the gospel as it applies to our practical needs. With tears of joy and thankfulness, with new decisions in their lives, those who participated could hardly bear to separate and depart to their homes on Monday morning.
Around 30 miles from Santa Cruz de la Sierra, in the village named Jorochito, the young people of the Bolivian Union had a wonderful convention. Just as they were spending time with the God of heaven, at the exact same time the people in Santa Cruz were celebrating their carnival, meeting with their “god” (with tragic results as often happens: 36 wounded, 3 very severely, and so forth). The believers assembled in Jorochito had the opportunity to thank and praise the Lord for the peace and blessing of this convention. Not only did the young people come, but also many adults did not want to lose the chance to take part. Many of the brethren of Santa Cruz were traveling daily, with the earnest desire to gain as much as possible. The question-and-answer time was delightful as ever, and all of us were very thankful to the Lord for the time spent with Him. A special dedication in behalf of the very little ones was requested.
In addition, the Youth Department leaders of the entire South American Region joined those in Bolivia for their own seminar. The work in behalf of the young people was considered and new plans were made. It was an excellent occasion to build friendships and promote teamwork in laboring for the same goal—the best for the South American youth! The only shadow was that not all the countries of the continent were represented and the time was relatively short, in comparison with the agenda.
This is briefly what I witnessed personally together with my young brethren in Christ. I know that in many other parts of the world, God’s children have also had wonderful experiences in bigger or smaller meetings. I’m very thankful to the Lord for everything He has done for us. May He help us to “press together” as He has pleaded for us to do, and to develop a strong, personal relationship with Him, is my wish and prayer!