The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

IN celebration of National Youth Month, members of the Ebenezer Union Baptist Church in Farmer’s Hill, Exuma recently dedicated a special service to young Bahamians throughout the island.

The event was held under the theme “Youth Matter,” taken from Philippians 4:13, which reads, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Members noted that this specific verse spoke to all in attendance, and assured them that they can succeed and can make a difference in their country.

The youngsters participated in a 11am worship service where Tonnelle Kelly and Kaymika Milford were the ushers; Ashley Williams read the scripture and Jaleesa Moncur alongside Nikasmon Thurston serenaded the congregation. Sister Lucille Flowers of Salem Union Baptist Church led a prayer of consecration. In his sermon, Rev Stephen Smith told the congregation that God uses the little ones for his purpose and glory.

He told the young people that faith without works is dead and they must do their part. Rev Smith further advised the young church members that they must be content in whatever state they may be in and let the peace of God surround them.

“You are the instrument, but God has the power, so you must connect to God. You do not have the monopoly over life so you must remember your creator in the days of your youth. Parents do not show favouritism to your children, but love fairly. Young people watch your talks, be careful what you allow to infiltrate your mind and watch your habits because they direct the path of your life and your character. You must obey you parents in the Lord and honour your father and mother,” said Rev Smith.

Vanessa Smith, public relations officer at Ebenezer Baptist Church, said it is very important for churches to shine a light on the youth, because they are the country’s future.

“Based on how we train them now, and how we put emphasis on the importance of their existence, will determine their confidence levels, characters and even what they become in society,” she said

As a mother of two young boys, Ms Smith said it is very important to encourage boys especially, because society has a way of painting them as “bad boys”. She said sometimes they are just overly active and it is simple a matter of training them and taking time to let them know they are important.

“The youth programme we have now at our church is held every Tuesday and we are focusing on character development, education and even the social development. The children are so eager to be there at every session,” she said.

“I would encourage (the children) to always do what’s right and know that they do not have to yield to peer pressure, because what seems good now, may not be beneficial to their lives later on. They can end up in jail or just in trouble. I want them to know to be young men and women of integrity and know that good prevails. I would encourage them to get involved in their church and its youth programmes, as well as surround themselves with positive persons who are progressing and moving upward, who are not idle.”