Evangel '97 ignites participants

Atlanta, GA

During the Christmas break over 500 young people, representing 12 countries spanning five continents, attended Evangel '97, an international young adult conference on mission and evangelism. The event was sponsored by Global Disciples, a network of Anabaptists related-discipleship and mission training ministries. Under the theme, "Bring on the fire" they gathered in Atlanta, Ga., from December 28, 1997 to January 1, 1998 for worship, teaching and outreach. The reasons for attending the conference were as diverse as the places from which they came. Esteban Vega, 22, is helping to lay the groundwork for Ejudica Mision, a training centre for Costa Rican young people. Sigrid Jordan's church in Germany was looking for youth leaders.

Worship played a central role in the week's activities. Sessions included singing led by a worship team from The Meeting Place in Winnipeg, videos addressing current mission opportunities, prayer and one or more speakers. Worship team member Gae Barkman said that leading worship at Evangel emptied her of self so that God could fill her.Daily seminars helped participants focus on mission and evangelism. Choices ranged from witnessing in a war zone to witnessing in the workplace and included various methods of sharing the gospel and testimonials from people who do so daily. From the boldest adventurer to the most timid of souls, most found a way to share God's Word.Afternoons found attendees working with Atlanta organizations, delivering blankets and groceries to homeless and needy people, holding outdoor worship services, going on prayer walks and distributing tracts.

It is hoped that efforts to reach into the community will be remembered. Observed Mano Manickam, a missionary to Thailand for 31 years, "The very first night I came I saw how the Spirit was moving among the young people. I am encouraged to think about the future...by seeing these young people."

Ann and Jon Metzler.

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