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New Zealand Youth Convention 2010

Posted on Mar 02, 2010

Organisers of the New Zealand Youth Convention are still praising God this week, after the completion of its 5th Annual Youth Training Conference. Over 100 youth registered, for the three day convention which ran over February 18-21, while another 100 attended on the weekend, making it the largest NZYC to date.

"I can't believe how on fire for Jesus New Zealand young people are" said Jay Rosario, one of the speakers, who was on his first trip to the South Pacific. Other speakers for the weekend included David Asscherick from the USA, as well as Neale Schofield from the Adventist Media Network in Sydney, and local pastors Jean-Noel Adeline (NZPUC) & Ed Gallagher (NNZC). "I can feel the Spirit of Jesus here" said Pr. Gallager in the final presentation of the convention to the youth. "God is ready to send you, if you are ready to be sent."

The weekend included morning and evening messages, while the days were filled with practical workshops, centred around equipping youth with ideas and concepts for sharing Jesus in different situations. Local ministries such as The New Zealand Christian Foundation, also the primary sponsor of NZYC, set up stands at the event, and presented ways of sharing their faith with their friends and colleagues. "I really believe this generation of youth can do it if they have the right tools" said Joanne Davies of the New Zealand Christian Foundation. "Its so exciting to see youth excited about sharing Jesus, and seeing its actually doable!"

Sabbath was a high day for the event, with a capacity crowd at the Mt. Richmond Conference centre where the event was hosted. However the real high came in the afternoon when youth went door to door around Howick and Royal Oak, promoting local evangelistic efforts for Royal Oak and Pakuranga SDA churches. "Often I think, what can I really do?" said Kahli Paddison from Wellington church after her afternoon on the doors. "It's amazing what a difference I might actually make, just by being brave enough to knock on someone's door."

This year NZYC made significant changes to its format and location, moving from a 5 day convention in Tui Ridge, to 3 days in Auckland. "God has put it on our hearts for the last few years that we need to make this training opportunity more accessible." said Sarita Butler, one of the founders of NZYC. "It's great to be in Auckland this year, and have so many churches represented from around New Zealand. I know God is ready to do big things through the youth this year. We're already looking forward to NZYC 2011 as well."

Organisers wish to thank the NZPUC Youth Department for its support and sponsorship, NZCF for its support and sponsorship, local pastors and churches who supported and attended the event, and the youth who attended. Planning will soon begin for NZYC 2011.

Benjamin Martin, Pastor, Hamilton & Cambridge Churches
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