Kingdom Living includes glorifying God and building up the Body of Christ through worship. Read below the stories of GCI congregations who are equipping young people in the practice of worship.
Mindoro, Philippines
What happens when a match is struck and its flame lands on dry leaves, ready to burn? The fire ignites, fanned by a wind so strong that it spreads beyond containment. This fire can melt even the hardest hearts.
Such was the experience at the first three-day Worship Weekend on Mindoro Island. Forty-one young people from three churches across Mindoro (Bansud, Naujan, and Rosacara) gathered to encounter the Lord in deep, transformative worship.
The theme, “Alab,” is a Filipino term that primarily translates to “blaze” or “flame” in English, but it can also be used metaphorically to describe intense emotions or passion. The theme was more than just a concept. It became a movement, a revival that stirred hearts to worship God passionately — not just in song, but through talents, skills, and lives dedicated to his glory. Participants bonded, prayed, and learned together, discovering worship as more than an act but as a way of life — centered on Jesus.
One enriching session was the Workshop on Worship and Liturgy, led by Pastor Jep Parcasio. The insights he shared deepened the participants’ understanding of why worship matters — not just the songs we sing but the sacred practices like communion, offerings, and the worship calendar. Christ-centered worship influences the rhythms of our lives, shaping our priorities and our devotion to God. Worship is not just about rituals but a personal response to God’s glory.
The final day was a culmination of everything learned and experienced. Young people showcased their skills during a mini recital, applying their newly learned skills and knowledge in playing instruments and tambourine dance — offering their talents as an expression of worship.
Each of the skill teams had one student be part of the worship team who led the closing song – as part of their recital performance. The song they sang was “Mahal na Mahal Kita Panginoon,” which is “We Love You, Lord” in English. The team was composed of different instruments such as guitar, beatbox, bass, keyboard, vocals, and even tambourine-dancing. The worship ended in joyful singing and dancing as the participants were also happy to witness a moment of practice and learning as it came to fruition.
The group then went to Bansud Beach, where the celebration continued in a profound way — the baptism of 10 young people. Onlookers witnessed the powerful declaration of faith, as these young souls stepped into the water and publicly declared that they belong to Christ!
We pray that the embers lit at this gathering will not fade. They will continue to spark a greater flame in congregations and communities, drawing more hearts to worship the God who is worthy of all praise. Praise God, this is a good beginning. The fire has been kindled, and it will not be contained.
By Jessica Joy Pamor, GC Pili Youth Leader
Bicol, Philippines
Ladson, South Carolina, US
We celebrated Youth Sunday on June 15, 2025, with a vibrant and spirit-filled worship service led entirely by our young people. From the moment the service began, the youth stepped confidently into leadership roles — serving as greeters, ushers, and leading in both the opening and intercessory prayers.
The Youth Praise Team led the congregation in dynamic worship. This was followed by a powerful musical selection from the Youth Choir that stirred hearts and glorified God. The youth also conducted the offertory, showing their growth not only in faith but also in service and responsibility.
Pastor Tommie Grant Jr. delivered the sermon, encouraging the youth and the congregation with a timely and uplifting message. Following the message, Pastor Grant invited all the youth to the front of the sanctuary. In a touching moment of unity and blessing, the entire congregation surrounded them in prayer, laying hands on them and speaking words of affirmation, hope, and purpose into their lives.
The celebration continued with a fellowship meal served after the service, offering an opportunity for deeper connection and joyful reflection on a meaningful day.
Youth Sunday was a beautiful reminder that our young people are not just the future of the church — they are a vital part of the church today.
By Clara Martin, Hope Avenue Champion
Ladson, South Carolina, US
Such a fun group of faithful people in Ladson — I loved visiting there!