YCLC Summit Encourages Personal Transformation
Photo courtesy of YCLC
Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s Will is — His good, pleasing and perfect Will. (Romans 12:2)
Quoting the Romans scripture verse, YCLC National Director Joshua Holmes opened the recent “Youth Summit for Unity: Restoration and I” program speaking about how the process of “transformation” fundamentally changes our hearts, minds, and lives. “I believe this Romans verse is the verse for the Young Christian Leadership Conference (YCLC),” he said. “We are here to raise transformational, pastoral leaders to revive America.”
The youth summit, held March 11 at the Los Angeles Family Church, drew about a hundred Unificationists and guests in person, and another hundred views online during the live stream. The average audience age of 21 to 25 is a key demographic for bringing about transformation in the world, Min. Joshua said, while noting it’s also an age where many feel lost and lose faith. “The youth leave home ... and lose the grounding of their faith,” he said. “[But] with our mentors and guides, [we can] raise up and hold on to this next generation, making sure they know and love God.”
He continued, “To bring transformation to someone’s life, you need to walk with them, talk with them, and be with them on their journey as they navigate the mire and swamps of life, helping them see the path forward.” He said cultivating the love from our Heavenly Parent then extends outward to those around us. “We hope, in that process, [young people] can find themselves to be spiritual leaders [and] guides,” he said.
Min. Mikuni, YCLC Los Angeles assistant director, discussed the primary points of developing a foundation of faith, which local YCLC members have shared on various college campuses in the Los Angeles area. He outlined the biblical example of Abraham — known as the “Father of Faith” — in a presentation showing the historical need for a growing period in seeking to perfect ourselves.
Another speaker, Min. Mika, noted that a number of young people YCLC connects with do not have a Christian background, so introducing them to the basics of Christian doctrine and biblical figures is important. She shared the story of Isaac, the miracle son of Abraham, who looked to his father in leading a life of faith.
As a young person, “Isaac demonstrated a great, sacrificial faith,” Min. Mika said, through his obedience and willingness to give up his life at the request of God and his father. While examining this biblical story in relation to personal restoration, she said, “Let’s remember the heart that Abraham had when he was called by God, and the heart he had when offering Isaac. Let’s become people who can inherit the same heart.”
The summit featured discussion groups, musical entertainment, and personal reflections as well. “It’s beautiful to hear young people sharing the Word of God,” said one participant who was touched by the experience. “I learned a lot; this ministered to my heart. [The Bible] is not only information, it’s transformation ... You have to ask yourself what you will change in your life.”
YCLC was launched in 2019 with the vision of True Parents to support young leaders in reviving the spirit and faith of America’s youth.
You can learn more about YCLC here, and watch the recent youth summit here.