17 February 2009

Igniting youth evangelism

Kensington, New South Wales
Melody Tan

A conference designed to train young people for mission has resulted in some 200 members of the public attending a seminar that introduces them to Jesus Christ.

Guest speaker David Asscherick addresses the 800 strong crowd. (Photo: Ben Beaden)

The Australia Youth Conference (AYC) was was held at the University of New South Wales in Sydney from February 5 to 8. It attracted some 800 attendees from across Australia.

Over the four days, more than 15 local and international speakers presented workshops on ways to introduce God to others, conducting evangelistic programs and personal spiritual development.

The young people were also involved in "practical evangelism," visiting residents in the suburb of Kensington and surrounding areas. In pairs, the young people conducted a spiritual interest survey to discover if residents believed in God and wanted to know more about Jesus.

Residents were given the option to have Bible studies in their homes, subscribe to a DVD library, sign up for courses offered by Adventist Discovery Centre-the church's Bible correspondence school-or accept a free ticket to a seminar conducted by Pastor David Asscherick in the evening.

The musical Chatelier family give a special performance. (Photo: Jason Wong)

As a result, some 200 residents attended the evening's seminar, with many attending follow-up programs held every evening at the Sydney Entertainment Centre from February 9 to 13. Organisers say there are further follow-up programs planned.

"The AYC has been so well organised," says Ben Beaden. "There were a range of thought-provoking programs and it has been one of the best things I've done."

Some $A260,000 in donations was also collected for youth evangelism, to help train young people for mission. For seven months, interested young people will undergo training at the

"It Is Written" evangelism college and work as Bible workers in the city.

Organisers are planning to hold AYC in Melbourne and Sydney over consecutive weekends next year.