DownloadJuly 13, 2009 issue
Guiding youth to changed lives
By Celeste Kennel-Shank Mennonite Weekly ReviewCOLUMBUS, Ohio — The Holy Spirit empowers youth to do God’s work in the world.
POET’S WORD — Brenda Matthews: “It’s time for you to step into your spiritual destiny.” — Photo by Celeste Kennel-Shank/MWR
That was the thread running through the messages of speakers during worship at Nationwide Arena for the Mennonite Church USA youth convention.
Worship each morning and evening gathered the 4,200 youth and sponsors at the convention.
In opening worship Tuesday, Brenda Matthews, a poet from Chicago, said youth of all Christian denominations can spark a spiritual revival nationwide.
“It’s time for you to step into your spiritual destiny,” she said.
Even when youth make poor choices, God cares for them intimately, Matthews said.
“The Holy Spirit knows our faults and never gives up on us,” she said.
Shane Hipps of Trinity Mennonite Church in Glendale, Ariz., gave the youth a brief lesson in biblical languages Wednesday morning. In Greek and Hebrew the words for “breath” and “spirit” are the same, he said.
“In English we have separated the two, and we’ve lost sight of one of the most profound and powerful truths of God,” he said.
Our breath is an everyday expression of God’s power, he said.
Comment on the article Guiding youth to changed lives
The purpose of comments is to engage in dialogue. We expect commenters to treat authors and each other as each would want to be treated. Respectful criticism is welcomed; offensive comments or parts of comments will be removed by the site administrator. Name and comment will be posted; email address is for follow-up only and will not be made public.
Download a free PDF showing the populations of
Mennonite groups and other Anabaptists.
