CFC Youth for Christ
by Niña Lauron Ortaliz
During the October school holidays, over 150 youth gathered
at Waipara Adventure Centre for the CFC-Youth for Christ South Island Conference 2024. CFC-Youth for Christ is a ministry under the Couples for Christ Global Mission Foundation, which unites people, especially youth, to engage in building relationships with other people globally, and to build oneness in spiritual faith.
The conference theme, ‘Into the Light,’ was inspired by Isaiah 49:5-6, calling participants to re-discover their identity as beloved sons and daughters of God. The conference aimed to empower attendees to embrace love that is free, total, faithful, and fruitful, as exemplified by Christ's self-giving love. It reinforced our mission to be bearers of Christ's light in our daily lives, becoming beacons of love and hope within our families, friendships, and communities.
The three-day event included worship, sessions, workshops, and fellowship, all centred on the theme. Youth attended from Christchurch, Culverden, Rakaia, Ashburton, Oamaru, Timaru, Dunedin, and Invercargill, building a vibrant and connected community. Bishop Michael Gielen celebrated the closing Mass on Sunday morning, marking a powerful conclusion to the weekend.
A highlight for many participants was the opportunity to deepen their faith through worship and Adoration, which provided meaningful moments for reflection and spiritual connection. As one of the team leaders, it was incredibly fulfilling to witness
the youth grow and be moved by the sessions and worship we prepared. A true highlight was seeing so many young people come together, deepening not only their relationship with Christ, but also their bonds with one another. The weekend was not only rich in faith, but also filled with genuine love and connection.
I was also able to deepen my own faith and gain a better understanding of myself. The sessions and workshops were truly eye-opening, helping me to grasp what it means to be a daughter of God and to carry His light to others. Another highlight for me was the YFC Got Talent showcase, where youth participants shared their God-given talents through dance, spoken word, short films, and band. It was inspiring to see their creativity and passion on display.
Overall, the weekend was a great success, allowing us to serve God and glorify His name in everything we did.
