The first-ever Young Adult LIFE Experience [YALX] was held in Louisville, Kentucky, offering empowerment and inspiration for emerging adult discipleship. In the area of Intergenerational Relationships, Dr. Rogelio Paquini from the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, offered insights as to the challenges and potential breakthroughs afforded in the local church context. He emphasized the roles each generation plays in the vibrancy and vitality of a local faith community.
“In Dr. Paquini’s presentation, there was a moment of comparison between the different generations that was very interesting to look into because it highlighted the different ways generations have learned to take in information, and how that’s reflected in the church,” noted Deborah Estrada, a recent graduate from University of Texas Arlington and a Texas Conference Young Adult Liason. “Throughout YALX I learned that there is value in mixing the generations together. — We need to listen to each other and work together to make lasting and effective changes because when we all work together to create something, we all support it and help it grow.”
LOST IN TRANSITIONS:
MAKING MEANINGFUL CONNECTIONS
Throughout YALX, various breakouts gave focus to Intergenerational Relationships including, Lost in Transition: Making Meaningful Connections, where participants explored the transitional realities for young adults and honed relational skills to bridge connection and empathic support. Dr. A Allan Martin, teaching pastor at Younger Generation Church, facilitated the breakout and shared from his personal experience. In an era of rampant loneliness and isolation, breakout attendees were challenged to harness transitions as opportunity to connect in authentic, meaningful ways with emerging generations. The breakout looked at the research, but also provided resources and take away skills.
YALX attendees were encouraged to heighten their “ESP,” [extra spiritual perception] of the transitions of young adulthood and see these as opportunities for spiritual transformation.
A great follow up resource for the breakout is to watch the Fuller Youth Institute [FYI] video podcast, Young Adulthood Transitions: #Adulting. For added impact, watch it with your team and/or local leaders. Bring young adults into the mix to discuss their realities and where they resonate.
During YALX, other breakouts on Intergenerational Relationships included “The Ministry of Presence Across Generations: Creating Spaces to Hear and Be Heard,” by Chaplain Kayla Goodman, and “The Haven of Intergenerational Relationships,” by Pastor Randy Hill.
Refreshments and meals provided ideal times to nurture intergenerational relationships as the fare was fantastic, shared amidst round dining tables at YALX. The winter storms had many more Adventist leaders, administrators, and vested adults in attendance at meal times, giving ample opportunity to casually connect with young adults and their leaders at YALX.
“Being at YALX, I witnessed young adults, pastors, and adult leaders learning side by side how to collaborate and prepare the church for the future,” reflected Dr. Paquini. “The experience gave me renewed hope for what my church will become tomorrow.”
Upcoming posts will highlight other discipleship competencies emphasized at YALX as well as follow up resources to use in your ministry and local faith context.
Growing Together 