As a result of answered prayer, more than 1,200 Southern California Conference senior youth and young adults attended the “Army of Youth: Trained for the Call” rally, and 350 youth leaders came to the event’s training seminars, early in 2005.

“Army of Youth” was the first event organized for senior youth and young adults age 13 to 30-something by a recently appointed SCC young adult ministries committee. The day’s program consisted of a morning youth rally and worship service and an afternoon youth-leader training seminar.

“The youth were asking for such an event to provide them with a venue to worship and receive God’s Word among a larger number of other youth,” said Ronald Pollard, committee chair.

The event also brought many youth together to develop a stronger community and network. “Our prayer was that the Spirit would open the hearts of the youth and youth leaders and encourage them to follow Him more and more each day by taking a role in fulfilling the Great Commission,” said a committee spokesperson.

During the morning youth rally, NAD youth director James Black delivered the message. Youth choirs, praise groups and drama teams from area churches led in worship and praise.

Afternoon seminars offered many topics from highly skilled youth leaders, including, “Creative Program Ideas for AYS/Youth Ministry,” by Patricia Humphrey, Youth Resource Corner Stone editor; and “How to Lead Youth to Christ,” by Dwain Esmond, Insight Magazine editor.

Alex Harter, Loma Linda Academy pastor and Bible teacher, shared tips on “How to Establish a Drama Ministry;” Iki Taimi, La Sierra University, presented, “How to Establish a Praise Team.” Wade Ford, youth pastor of the 16th St. church, San Bernardino, presented “Creative Outreach Ministry Ideas;” Giddell Garcia, youth pastor, Spanish-American church, presented “Bridging the Gap Between Youth and the Church;" and Elizabeth Talbot, associate pastor, Vallejo Drive church, shared “How to Establish a Young Adult Ministry.” Danny Chan and Zachary Thorp, associate pastors of the Eagle Rock church, gave tips on establishing a collegiate ministry.

Ministry team members of La Sierra University and Pacific Union College, under the respective leadership of Samuel Acosta and Orlando Magana, assisted by providing equipment, money and labor hours.

The SCC executive committee appointed the senior youth/young adult committee, a 10-member group composed of a pastor and lay person from each of the five SCC regions, in addition to the chair.

“The committee was developed to meet a need, despite the lack of funds currently available to provide a full-time person to minister to this age group. With the Lord’s help, this committee will continue to lead youth to Christ and equip them for ministry,” added Pollard.