GPA 2023-24 Training Brings Great Inspiration
Photos courtesy of GPA
Nearly a hundred youth are completing their immersive training after a special workshop, “Embrace My Journey of Faith,” kicked off earlier this fall for the GPA 2023-24 year. Teams from GPA, CIGYM, and Heavenly USA spent much of September and October preparing themselves internally and externally for their respective missions.
CIGYM has trained by collaborating with various CARP chapters across the country. “It’s been a blast so far,” shared one youth missionary working with the CARP DMV (DC-Maryland-Virginia) chapter. “We were welcomed by a warm and loving group of many GPA alumni and students from across the U.S. We’ve also been enjoying making new friends at the Montgomery College and University of Maryland campuses close by.”
The youth missionaries have also been supporting CARP DMV’s weekly "Momentum" event at Montgomery College. “Students and even professors can participate in [our] activities and discussions, and listen to an awesome talk given by CARP or CIG members,” said a youth missionary. “We’ve presented on topics such as seeing the value in others. We’ve also held a game night, as well as a lively culture night where we dove into [everyone’s] cultures.”
CIG youth missionaries have supported the initiatives of other CARP chapters including the Bay Area, Las Vegas, New York, and New Jersey, where they have experienced leadership and lecture training, public outreach, community center living, and much more.
Meanwhile, the GPA group recently finished up their first fundraising condition. “We had a lot of education and bonding from working together,” said a first year participant. “It’s been an honor to engage and work with the community.”
A third-year participant said they felt inspired to commit to another year of the program. “I became aware of blocks and concepts that stopped me from receiving love from God,” they said, noting that their experience with GPA enhanced their faith and personal relationships.
The Heavenly USA team concluded a long period of training as well, holding their White Jacket Ceremony on October 26 to formally welcome more than a dozen new members. “I’m doing this mission to contribute to the providence and help support that goal,” shared a team member, who said their investment was guided through prayer. “I’m not supposed to live life centered on myself, but for the purpose of something greater; for the world, and for God.”
Stay tuned for more updates from GPA’s journey. You can learn more about the program here.