Indian Youth Conference (IYC) 2023, held at Dr. Annie Besant Park on November 8-12, was a profound gathering of Adventist youth, under the theme "From Glory to Glory." This supporting ministry of the Southern Asia Division of Seventh-day Adventists welcomed over 1,000 attendees, fostering spiritual growth and fellowship.
Among the myriad of inspiring sessions, the testimonies of individuals stood out, showcasing steadfast faith and dedication.
Richard and Jemima's Marital Commitment to God
Newlyweds Richard and Jemima, from Madurai, chose to forgo a traditional honeymoon, instead attending IYC as their first journey together. Their decision to make God the center of their marital life sets a powerful example of commitment and spiritual union for young Adventist couples.
Hari's Orissa Youth Conference
Hari's journey in starting the Orissa Youth Conference (OYC) is a tale of divine providence. Beginning in 2019, with limited resources, his faith was rewarded as God provided all necessities, establishing a new platform for youth in Orissa to connect and grow in their faith.
Leenson's Unwavering Conviction
Leenson's story is one of bold faith and principle. Choosing to uphold the Sabbath truth, he faced familial opposition and significant educational risks, including forfeiting final exams and an IBM internship opportunity. His unshakable conviction, rewarded by God's grace, ensured his uninterrupted academic progress, thus affirming his choices.
Utkarsha Kamble's Full-Time Ministry
Utkarsha's journey, influenced by her mother, Sunita, a digital missionary for Adventist World Radio (AWR), and her brother Pratik, reflects a family dedicated to service. Utkarsha's brave decision to leave a promising career at Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for full-time mission work demonstrates a profound commitment to faith and service, resonating with many young professionals seeking purpose beyond the corporate world.
Naomi's Service and Providence
Naomi's role as a full-time mother and volunteer for Amazing Facts India exemplifies the power of faith in everyday life. Her dedication, balancing homeschooling and ministry work, was met with divine provision, enabling her family to overcome financial burdens—a testament to the rewards of faithful service.
Mercy's Impactful Ministry
From a small village in Andhra Pradesh, Mercy's journey with the medial missionary program is extraordinary. Her efforts, including distributing 10,000 copies of Ellen White's The Great Controversy in Guntur, reflect a far-reaching impact. Her story is especially poignant, as a Sunday church pastor recommended the book to his congregation. This illustrates the power of cross-denominational influence.
The conference, featuring speakers like Pastor Pavel Goia and Dr. Eric Walsh, provided a rich tapestry of insights, from overcoming personal trials to understanding end-time events. Sessions on marriage, family, and integrating faith into daily life offered practical guidance for young Adventists navigating modern challenges.
In conclusion, IYC 2023 emerged as a beacon of spiritual enlightenment and empowerment, reinforcing Adventist youths’ faith and identity in Christ. The personal testimonies shared illustrate a vibrant tapestry of faith in action, inspiring a new generation to walk a path of devotion and service.
