International Day of Prayer for Children and Youth was observed at Corps, Divisional and Territorial level in Gujarat. Children and youth participated very enthusiastically and involved themselves in various activities of the significant day.
Territorial level programme was conducted in Temple Corps of Ahmedabad Division on 31 March 2019 based on theme “Dream Big – Pray like a Child” after the Holiness meeting from 2:30 to 5:00 PM. Children and youth from various divisions of Gujarat participated enthusiastically in this world-wide event even though it was very hot day of summer. Their love for God and spirit for Army seen during the meeting.
The Meeting was started with praise and worship led by Temple Corps Choir followed by Prayer and Welcome by Major Sanjay K. Khristi, Territorial Youth Secretary. The Chief Guest Lieutenant Colonel Vanlalfela, Chief Secretary encouraged to Children and young adults by sharing about theme “Dream Big – Pray Like a Child” Lieutenant Colonel Rasik Christian – Programme Secretary offered the prayer and spoke the words of encouragement. Then the meeting was handed over to youth to lead further programme. Mr. Lyroi V Christian a young adult stunningly led the further programme, Word of God shared by Mr. Maxwell Chauhan and challenged the youth. Other young people participated through songs, prayers, testimony, etc.
Miss. Ripal led opening song, “Thou Christ of burning cleansing flame” while Mr. Parth offered prayer. Everyone filled with spirit, danced and enjoyed like David while Bhajan (one of the types of Gujarati song) was led by Miss Shreya. Effective personal testimonies of Mr. Prince Christian and Miss Florence Francis about how God did miracle and saved them physically and made them spiritually strong that left tremendous impact on congregation and many had tears in their eyes. Special Song was sung by Terryson Taylor. Mr. Maxwell Chauhan had shared his thoughts based on Ephesians 3:20-21 that 'God can do anything, you know – far more than you could ever imagine'. You may have many dreams, needs, desires but sometimes we do not have faith in God; God will do anything for you but dedicate yourself to living God and have faith in God. We praise God for He had equipped our young people with manifold of talents. The meeting was concluded with prayer and benediction of the Chief Secretary.
We are grateful to God for very blessed International day of Prayer for Children and Youth. We thank leaders for their guidance and encouragement for Youth Ministry. Especially, we are thankful to DYS and Divisional Commander of Ahmedabad Division and Temple Corps for making all physical arrangement.
Reported by Major Sanjay Khristi, Territorial Youth Secretary (Gujarat), India Western Territory
