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“God is ready to do something big in New Zealand” was the message that was preached during the 2008 New Zealand Youth Convention (NZYC). Over five days from January 22-27, more than 70 youth from around New Zealand came together in Tui Ridge for the third annual youth convention. The theme of the conference this year was ‘Arise’; both a call and challenge to the youth of New Zealand to ‘Arise’ and to shine in their churches, academic institutions, homes, and communities. This year NZYC was honoured to have Pr John Bradshaw from the USA, Dr. Allan Lindsay, and Johnny Wong from Australia as speakers at the convention. “I was amazed at the messages from all the speakers, and challenged by their call for us to do the work God had waiting for us to do”, said Anthony Roche, a newly baptised Christian. “Its amazing to think that He would choose us to finish His work here in New Zealand and if be around the world.” While the youth enjoyed the various morning and evening messages, various workshops were also run throughout the day, ranging from personal study and prayer, to running evangelistic small groups. Other workshops focused on health evangelism, and how to prepare sermons and Bible studies. “The emphasis this convention has on training is fantastic” said Dr. Allan Lindsay who has also been involved in similar youth events all over the world. “I feel its so important that our youth know Jesus is their Lord and saviour, but that they are trained to let others know as well.”
During the convention youth were given the chance each afternoon to participate in service and outreach events in the Rotorua community. Food parcels, chair massages, door knocking, and a community service project were all conducted, with over 30 homes requesting further bible correspondence.
An unexpected blessing occurred on the second day of the convention, when a car full of youth en-route to a service project were involved in an accident with a young German tourist. “I couldn’t believe it, when the crash happened” said Nick Atkinson of Cambridge church who was the driver of the car. “I wondered why God would allow this to happen when we’re out witnessing for him.” After exchanging contact information and discovering the young lady was now stranded without a car, the youth involved invited her to the conference for the rest of the week. “I couldn’t believe someone could be so nice, after I crashed into them” said Annika. “I loved the conference, and the messages!”
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