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More than 700 youth leaders and Pathfinders were inspired to go and motivate other young people from January 13-14, 2024 during the first-ever Youth Conference and Expo dubbed ‘Revived and Renewed.’

[caption id="attachment_12498" align="alignnone" width="4032"] A portion of the approximately 700 Youth Leaders and Pathfinders at the 'Revived & Renewed' Youth Conference and Expo at the Seventh-day Adventist Conference Centre in Mount Salem, St. James on Sunday, January 14, 2024. (photo by Brendon Coleman)[/caption]

The Conference which was held at the Seventh-day Adventist Conference Centre in Mount Salem, St. James, was hosted by the Jamaica Union Conference (JAMU) in collaboration with the Inter-American Division Publishing Association (IADPA).

Pastor Roger Hernandez, Ministerial and Evangelism Director for the Southern Union Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, was the speaker for the Divine Service.  In delivering a very thought-provoking and inspiring message based on his book ‘Revived’, Hernandez challenged the young people to think positive by not harbouring negative thinking, feelings of inadequacy, and the pressure to be the "star" or "savior" in their spheres of influence.

[caption id="attachment_12503" align="alignnone" width="1843"] Pastor Roger Hernandez delivers the Divine Service sermon at the 'Revived & Renewed' Youth Conference and Expo at the Seventh-day Adventist Conference Centre in Mount Salem, St. James on Sabbath, January 13, 2024. (photo by Brendon Coleman)[/caption]

"Most of the mistakes that you will make in your lifetime come as a result of either talking to or listening to the wrong person,” Hernandez explained. "You should not share your goals, dreams, and aspirations with everyone because not everyone is equipped to handle the blessings of others."

Hernandez emphasized the importance of understanding one's identity and the role of Jesus as the ultimate source of strength, salvation, and purpose.

The attendees which included Church Leaders from the Inter-American Division, JAMU and Conferences were encouraged to shift their focus from seeking affirmation from others to embracing their inherent value and relying on Jesus as the true star and savior in their lives.

Speaking about the danger of comparing one's life to another, he said, "Stop judging your full-length movie by somebody else's highlight reel,” a statement that undoubtedly resonated with the youth present.

His message concluded with a powerful reminder that the overarching theme of the Bible is Jesus and his sacrifice for humanity's salvation. "Jesus is the Savior, not us," Hernandez affirmed.

Those present at the Conference Center responded positively to the message, with scores of young people walking to the altar, heeding the call to seek God's guidance and to surrender their will to Him.

Viewers and listeners online also testified to the impact of the message on their lives, sending messages of affirmation via the online chat. They, too, had the opportunity to respond to the preaching of the word by filling out an online form.

The weekend also included interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and a panel discussion, which provided a platform for the youth to engage with one another, share experiences, and gain valuable insights.

[caption id="attachment_12499" align="alignnone" width="1024"] FOSRICH Company Ltd. representative (left) talks about Solar Technology and the opportunities it provides at the 'Revived & Renewed' Youth Conference and Expo at the Seventh-day Adventist Conference Centre in Mount Salem, St. James on Sunday, January 14, 2024. (photo by Nigel Coke)[/caption]

In addition, the expo showcased various resources and exhibits, along with a HEART/NSTA Trust Assessment and Certification in various vocation and skills areas. These initiatives were geared toward empowering and inspiring young people to lead purposeful and fulfilling lives.