On November 1-3, 2024, the Japan Union Conference (JUC) Youth Congress occurred in Chiba Prefecture, marking its return after nine years. Though there were concerns about participation due to the long gap, more than 100 young people from across the country gathered for three days of spiritual growth and fellowship.
This year’s congress was centered on the Youth Department’s motto, “The Love of Christ compels me.” The program featured inspiring lectures by Daisuke Nakadomari, pastor from the West Japan Conference, Toru Hasegawa, pastor from Saniku Gakuin College Theology Department, and Hayato Shimada, director of the JUC Youth Department. On Sabbath, Yutaka Inada, the president of the JUC, delivered a heartfelt and passionate message to the young attendees.
The key message throughout the lectures emphasized that to spread the Adventist message, one must first seek the power of the Holy Spirit to fill their hearts with God’s love. Just as Paul discovered Christ’s love through the Cross, participants were encouraged to focus on Jesus and His sacrifice.
A significant event highlight was the testimony shared by missionaries Mr. and Mrs. Babienco on Sabbath evening. Despite being in Japan for only a year, they delivered their testimony in Japanese, sharing how the love of Christ inspired them to serve in Japan. Their message reassured participants that God can use anyone to fulfill His Mission.
The congress offered participants a chance to reaffirm the Mission, Aim, Motto, and Pledge of the Adventist Church’s youth group. Through discussions, prayers, and conversations with fellow attendees, many experienced spiritual renewal and gained fresh perspectives on their faith. Meeting peers who shared their beliefs was an uplifting and unforgettable experience for some, especially those from churches with few young members.
Participants also enjoyed a vibrant praise session led by a praise team formed during the congress. Singing praises together created a strong sense of unity. Recreational activities provided opportunities to forge lasting connections, enabling participants to stay in touch even after the event ended.
One participant reflected, “It was a valuable experience to meet others who believe in the same God. I realized that although we come from different places, we share the same Mission from God. This conference helped me reflect on my faith and how deeply Jesus loves me.”
The organizers pray that those who attended will return to their communities as dedicated disciples, driven by the love of Christ, to live out the Mission and inspire others with their faith.
The JUC Youth Congress was a blessed gathering, reminding everyone of the power of Christ’s love to unite and compel us to action.
