LATEST NEWS
Youths Together for a Stirring Time
Inaugural BPCIS Youth Gathering
By Laraine Lim, Zion Serangoon B-P Church
On Saturday, 13 July 2024, more than 90 youths from the churches of Bible-Presbyterian Church in Singapore (BPCIS) gathered at Zion Bishan Bible-Presbyterian Church (BPC) for the inaugural combined BPCIS Youth Gathering. The theme “Consider and Stir”was inspired by Hebrews 10:24, which urged us to "consider how to stir up one another to love and good works."
With high energy, we kicked off the event, starting with heartfelt worship led by a gifted worship team comprising youths from both Zion Serangoon BPC and Zion Bishan BPC. We united our hearts in worship as we sang songs like “You are Holy (Prince of Peace)”, “Oh How Good”, “Goodness of God” and “We are the Lord’s Own Family”.
These familiar melodies reminded me of God’s immense grace and love which brought us together as a body of Christ to praise His Name.
This was followed by an icebreaker game where we arranged ourselves in a line, from the youngest to the oldest. This helped to set a light-hearted tone for the afternoon ahead and facilitated the formation of our groups for discussion and games later on.
The highlight of the gathering was an interactive workshop led by Pastor Joseph Tee from Zion Serangoon BPC. He spoke passionately about the importance of encouraging one another in faith. Through his short message, I was reminded that we are called not only to love in general but to actively seek out opportunities to encourage and uplift one another.
Soon after, we were given some time to discuss and reflect. The thought-provoking questions posed to us challenged us to look beyond our own concerns and to consider how we could support and inspire each other in our journeys of faith. Being surrounded by youths who are also our peers enabled us to share our struggles more openly, with much less reservation, fostering a supportive environment where we could mutually support each other.
There was a girl in my group who was from a non-BPCIS church and was invited by her friend. She expressed a genuine and keen interest in our Youth Fellowship activities held every Saturday. I gladly invited her to our Youth Fellowship. In retrospect, her curiosity made me realise how blessed and fortunate I am to have grown up with such a close-knit community and to learn how to appreciate them more.
With our hearts full and spirits lifted, we bid farewell to one another at this memorable gathering. The fellowship, the worship, the games and the deep conversations had left an indelible mark on me, forging new bonds of friendships and faith that transcended mere acquaintance.
As a youth, I consider it a great privilege to come together with the broader BPCIS community to celebrate our shared faith in Christ. Such a gathering was a profound opportunity to connect with my peers and strengthen our spiritual bonds.
Furthermore, as a youth leader, I’m thankful for the chance to step back from my usual role and experience such events as a participant once again. It allowed me to foster deeper personal spiritual growth alongside my peers.
I would like to express my appreciation to the dedicated young adults from the various churches who diligently planned and organised the activities and games. Their efforts have truly enhanced our experience and made this gathering possible.
And of course, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to God for granting us this valuable time of fellowship, where we can grow closer to Him and to one another. It was a fulfilling “consider and stir” time during which we learned, encouraged and supported each other in our spiritual growth. May this first-ever BPCIS Youth Gathering be the beginning of more to come! To God be the Glory, Amen!
Laraine Lim is an undergrad and youth leader who is committed to guiding and empowering youths at her church, Zion Serangoon BPC, and fostering a community of faith-driven young leaders.