2012-05-17 21:07Z

NorthWest Youth Conference 2004: Report

October 5, 2004, by Kevin D. Paulson.

The Northwest Youth Conference retreat began on the evening of September 2 and ending the morning of September 6, 2004. The meetings were held at the Walla Walla College Marine Station at Rosario Beach, north of Seattle. A beautiful spot, it was especially lovely since we had clear weather and sunshine nearly every day! The large paneled windows of the lodge where the meetings were held overlooked the ocean. It was like being on a cruise ship, with spacious views of natural surroundings.

About 60 people were present prior to Sabbath, whereas over 100 were present during the morning Sabbath worship hour. The theme for the conference was “Here I Stand,” taken from Martin Luther’s declaration before the Diet of Worms. The theme song was “Once to Every Man and Nation.” (Some suspected that I had chosen it, but this was not the case. I couldn’t have chosen better, however!)

The singing was like that at all YC meetings—passionate, enthusiastic, and heartfelt. Half of the joy at these gatherings in taking part in the singing! One of the favorites was “Dare to be a Daniel.“ It is fair to say that is the goal of the young people who were assembled there on the beach last weekend.

Dennis Priebe, Peter Gregory, Derrol and Cindy Sawyer, and David Bostrom were the speakers. Peter’s messages were on Bible prophecy, the book of Revelation, and the need for present truth believes to share what they learn and not just come to good meetings! In a separate class, which I could not attend since I went to that of the Sawyer’s on music, Peter spoke at length about how to understand and interpret the book of Revelation.

Priebe gave his standard series on the gospel. Most of the young people present had never heard it before. And they were very moved. One student in particular who had just been through some tough personal experiences was present from Walla Walla. He was very impressed by Pr. Priebe’s messages. I commented to some who were there that while I have heard Priebe give this presentation many times, I never weary of it! The blessing was palpable and glorious!!

An especially practical blessing at this conference was received through the seminar by Derrol and Cindy Sawyer, a couple who have a music ministry and who once were invovled in the rock music world. For those who aren’t aware of the Sawyers’ work, their website is http://www.MosesSong.org. Their lecture series on the difference between God’s music and Satan’s music was very insightful and provocative, especially with regard to the contemporary church growth movement. I strongly recommend their ministry to all who might be interested.

Saturday night we enjoyed the singing of vigorous, old Adventist hymns around a beach campfire. It was truly wonderful! The following morning, with brilliant morning sunshine reflected off the Pacific, Pr. Dennis Priebe spent the morning speaking on the nature of Christ and character perfection. One of the best presentations of his I have ever heard!

Monday morning we gathered for a reconsecration service, praying together and unitedly committing ourselves to personal faithfulness and to the cause of revival and reformation in the church. We spent over two hours together in prayer and song. It was one of the most inspiring spiritual decisions I have recently been blessed by.

The NWYC leadership is increasing in its awareness of denominational issues. The recent developments with Mission Catalyst and the pending departure of various “contemporary” church growth specialists in the church comes across to these young people as vindication of their concern over these trends. Church leaders in that territory are becoming aware of the YC movement and the alternative it offers to the failing strategies for youth ministry that so long have been promoted. Join us in praying for this precious group of Seventh-day Advnetist youth who are looking to be serious spiritually about what it means to stand for the truth! GCO