Knowing that many future workers, teachers, and ministers are being trained and motivated by these efforts, evangelism among children and young people has long been considered one of the most important outreach efforts of the Apostolic Faith organization. Ecclesiastes 12:1 says, “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth,” and encouraging young people to do this is the reason for the organization’s emphasis on youth-oriented activities.
In Portland, several times each month, the young people hold youth services. Youth choirs and orchestras participate in these services, and youthful musicians present the special vocal and instrumental numbers. Testimonies given by young people witness to the reality they have found in Christ and the satisfaction they feel in the service of the Lord. One youth minister leads the service, and another brings the message that targets the concerns and interests of this age group.
Sometimes the prayer meetings following the youth services continue for hours, and seeking hearts are rewarded for their perseverance. Over the years, countless children and teenagers have been saved and have received their deeper spiritual experiences in these services.
Children’s church services are also held on a regular basis for the youngest members of the church family. Designed for children preschool and grade-school ages, the music and messages are age-appropriate.
Every summer since the mid-1950s, the Apostolic Faith organization has held youth camps in various locations around the United States for young people from fourth grade through high school. Away from their normal environment, they eat, play, and worship together, and as a result, the hearts of many have been changed. Games, swimming, sport competitions, and lots of energy-demanding activities are a part of each day. There are also daily chapel services, Bible learning activities, evening programs, and cabin devotional times. Counselors become personally acquainted with the young people in their charge, allowing them to identify and minister to the spiritual needs of each camper.
Outings and activities for the young people are scheduled at various times throughout the year. These include overnight youth retreats; activity nights featuring films, musical recitals, skits, and other types of entertainment; prayer and Bible study breakfasts; Sunday school class and department outings; and trips to neighboring branch churches for services. The activity center on the campground is also open for activities at various times.
%402x.svg){kind=icon}
%402x.svg){kind=icon}
