|
|
 |
| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
| Monday, July 14, 2008 |
|
Preparing to Reflect: IYC 2008
Church of God Ministries, Church of God - General
|
|
By David Farlow
 San Antonio, TX—Youth ministry staff and volunteers from across the country gathered this past weekend at the San Antonio Convention Center to complete final preparations for the 2008 International Youth Convention of the Church of God, July 14–17. And while there were dozens of tasks that needed to be completed in time for Monday evening’s kick off service, everyone was focused on hosting a convention that will create the moments that will foster reflection and life-change
“IYC is all about life change and helping people making decisions that will affect their lives for eternity,” said Dr. Andy Stephenson, the convention’s lead organizer, to the group of more than fifty staff members as they met late Saturday night to go over last minute details prior to beginning the setup in earnest on Sunday. “It is a place where people can hear from God. What happens at this convention will affect generations.”
IYC is the culmination of nearly two years of planning, and those gathered began early Sunday to complete the setup. The registration booths were set up, T-shirt sales tables stocked, exhibitor booths constructed, and lights, sound and the stage all put in their places. But there was also the “reflective” presence—everywhere.
 “Our ultimate goal is that IYC become a launching pad for students to go back into their communities and ‘Reflect’ the love of Christ,” said Stephenson. To help emphasize the theme visually, dozens of cardboard boxes were covered in silver Mylar and huge panels of mirrors were moved into key positions.
But away from the glitter and noise, a quieter work of even greater importance continued. A team of prayer warriors who have been bathing the convention and those who will attend in prayer came together to walk the grounds.
“We are acknowledging the Lord’s presence is so vital for what happens, and prayer is a way to invite the Lord into this gathering,” said Rev. Ryan Chapman, conference prayer team coordinator. “We have four on-site intercessors whose responsibility is to pray throughout the day and evening for our youth and those in attendance.”
The support for IYC through prayer began months ago. Prayer partners were assigned to pray by name for every person who registered for the convention, said Chapman. And recently, Rev. Vance Oliver, pastor of the McArthur Park Church of God here in town, lead a team on a prayer walk seeking the Lord’s blessing and protection for the convention. They visited the convention center and each of the hotels that will be used.
As the teens from across the country and around the world come together, please join others in praying for life change among those who attend this year’s IYC. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| |
|
|
|
|
|
| |
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|