Youthphoria

WE HAVE MOVED!!

2012-02-08T23:27:00.002+08:00

WE HAVE MOVED!

Visit us @ https://www.facebook.com/youthphoria

feel free to browse our blogposts!

God bless :)

The Heart of Worship

2011-10-24T15:42:00.001+08:00

Wow. It's been such a long time since i've written here i looked stunned at the posting page for awhile before i figured out where i was supposed to start writing. Hope everyone's being doing good in life so far. I hope that you've all been suffering, because then we can start to see the many great God centered characters being built up. I hope you've all been sick, because then we'll start to appreciate the value of God as our healer. I hope you've all been heart broken at one thing or another, because then we'll start to appreciate the value of God as our restorer. Last but not least, i hope you've all been convicted of a new truth, because then we'll know for sure that God's mercies are new everyday.

Maybe it seems like i'm wishing for bad things to happen, but really, Jesus didn't promise us a bed of roses (for the life of me, i can't understand this--roses have so many thorns! How in the world can that be comfortable??).

Right then. Onto the main point. Freedom of worship.

In Singapore, prayers from Christian often thank God for the freedom to worship. Freedom to meet in churches without fear of persecution. I'm thankful for that too, but sometimes it just feels too easy, too comfortable. Are we just luckier, that we're here in Singapore? And our brothers and sisters in Cambodia, Myanmar or Laos are just unlucky? Or maybe it's worse, it's that God knows we will never be able to hold our faith in times of such trials that He refuses to put us through that? I really don't know.

But that is not the freedom i'm talking about. The freedom i want to address here is the freedom within worship. If you've noticed on Sundays, our worship seems rather.. Restricted. Sure there's a full band (and they're really good no doubt), there's fancy projection etc, but the people. We.. We just stand there, seemingly expressionless. Yes i know not everyone is like this, and not everyone worships the same way. But at the moment, it seems like almost everyone worships the same way--without expression.

And while i can think of many reasons why this might be so. I just want to bring up one very important question. What is the purpose of worship, and personally (that is to each of you), what is your reason for singing during the corporate worship on Sundays (or Saturdays for youth)?

Let me give you some possible answers:

1. The worship is supposed to bring me into God's presence.
2. The worship is supposed to set the mood, so that the pastor's sermon has some context and makes more sense.
3. The worship is supposed to bring the congregation onto the same page, the same place so that we can worship God.

Are there others? There should be. What's your answer? Why do you worship and what's the point of it all?

Second question:
If everyone has a different expectation of worship, does that equate to disunity within a church? Or within the youth ministry?

Maybe it's because i've been to youth conferences, to Trackers, to mission trips, and i've seen different forms of worship. People at these places, i guess most of them go because they want to see God, they want to hear God, they want to experience God. They've struggled all their lives to remain in God's presence, and conferences like these.. They bring together a group of strangers, brothers and sisters who have been going through similar experiences--all of which manifests itself in the way that worship goes ahead.

It's open, it's liberal, it's overflowing, it's free.

While we celebrate and thank God for the freedom to worship, let's pray and ask for courage to embrace freedom in worship.

Perhaps, and just perhaps, it's so much more than the music.

Abraham

Thrive in School :)

2011-07-31T01:57:00.001+08:00

Learning to Thrive at College

July 7, 2011 | by: Alex Chediak | Category: Commentary

College should be a temporary season of academic preparation and personal growth to propel a lifetime of effective service to God and neighbor. It should be a launching pad into all that goes with responsible Christian adulthood. Yet for some, it’s a time when they abandon the Christian faith, displaying that they never really belonged to Christ (1 John 2:19). For others, their faith remains intact, but they waste their college lives with video games, partying, and other frivolities—an expensive vacation funded by Mom, Dad, and debilitating student loans.

Thrive at College

I’m convinced that you should not just survive college but thrive at college. Don’t justmaintain your faith, but really come to own it — growing thick, strong roots (1 Timothy 4:12). Don’t just squeak by classes with as little effort as possible, but strive to discover your calling — what God uniquely wired you to do — and to love God with all your mind by giving it your very best (Ecclesiastes 9:10).

Socially, college is a season for making life-long friendships — not just the kind you have a great time with (good as that is) but the kind that spur you on to love, trust, and follow God. Pursue relationships that help you put away childishness, grow in maturity, increasingly make wise choices, and “expect great things from God and attempt great things for God.” And who knows? Maybe one of these friends will become a fabulous husband or wife.

College is a time for assuming responsibility, for becoming a disciplined steward of time and money, for recognizing that recreation is a gift of God to be enjoyed in measure but never to dominate our lives. Rather, when properly pursued, recreation empowers us forour work rather than distracting us from our work.

As a student, remember that your work is learning (studying) so that you can, for a lifetime, increasingly love God with a well-trained mind, a mind that can identify key questions, pursue understanding, dissect arguments, discover logical fallacies, and communicate effectively.

Be Trained to Make a Difference

College is an opportunity to get the training you need to make a difference in the world — by becoming a business person, an engineer, a doctor, a teacher, a historian, a physical therapist, a husband, a wife, a parent, who sees God’s lordship extending to every area of life and every corner of the globe.

It’s a time to take the gifts God has given you and develop them into finely-tuned skills — the kind that can really serve and benefit other people (some of whom may even pay you). It’s a time to become a man or woman with unshakable character and faithfulness — the kind that can be given increasing areas of responsibility, and who can eventually rise to leadership. It’s a time to honor all that your parents did for you by learning to own your decisions, even your mistakes, as you embrace a full-orbed, God-dependent adulthood.

Alex Chediak is an associate professor of engineering and physics at California Baptist University and the author of Thriving at College: Make Great Friends, Keep Your Faith, and Get Ready for the Real World! (Tyndale House Publishers, April 2011). Learn more about Alex on his site, and follow him on Twitter or Facebook.

Open Doors

2011-07-21T12:31:00.002+08:00

What Would It Be Like To Walk In Their Shoes Saturday

What if you were kicked out of school? What if your friends and family rejected you? What if meeting other Christians was too dangerous? What if owning a bible is illegal?
According to Open Doors, over 100 million Christians are persecuted worldwide. What would it be like to walk in their shoes? Come and hear stories of faith under fire that will strengthen your own faith!

Join us this sat 23 Jul 2011, 4-7pm. see you! :)

World Vision comes to Youthphoria!

2011-07-14T14:50:00.003+08:00

This Saturday: WORLD VISION

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organisation dedicated to working with children, families and communities worldwide to reach their full potential by tackling the causes of poverty and injustice.

Come join us this saturday as World Vision Staff will come down to share their experiences with us.

Hear true stories,

Listent to special devotions,

Watch impactful videos,

see experiential acts that will help you deepen in Godly convictions for the poor & forgotten.

Don't miss this saturday's discipling opportunity to grow a bigger, compassionate HEART!

Come down this saturday, 4-7pm, see you there :)

Visit their website or facebook page for more info on tis org! :)

HOW I CAN STAY CLOSE TO GOD TEACHING SERIES

2011-06-17T20:36:00.002+08:00

Youthphoria in May - July 2011

HOW I CAN STAY CLOSE TO GOD TEACHING SERIES

Just as a person needs to train hard to bring his physical body to good condition, a Christian needs godly habits that will train him to deepen his personal spirituality in Christ. When a Christian invests in spiritual habits, he invests in his own growth for the long haul. God uses spiritual habits to keep His children’s hearts close to His heart. Join us to learn habit of growth that will enable you to stay close to God daily.

14 May, Sat WHY DO I NEED SPIRITUAL HABITS?

21 May, Sat WHY SHOULD I MEMOMIZE SCRIPTURES WHEN I HAVE THE BIBLE?

28 May, Sat LEADERS' DEVELOPMENT DAY

4 June, Sat HOW DO I KEEP MY PRAYER LIFE FRESH?

11 June, Sat NO YOUTHPHORIA

12 June, Sun GLOBAL DAY OF PRAYER (YOUTH) @ SINGAPORE EXPO, HALL 3

18 June, Sat WHY AND HOW SHOULD I FAST?

25 June, Sat LEADERS' ANNUAL RETREAT

2 July, Sat HOW CAN I APPRECIATE SILENCE, SIMPLICITY AND SOLITUDE?

All sessions are held in basement rooms 3 & 4, 4.00pm to 7pm. See you there!

Prayer Newsletter for Cambodia Mission Trip :)

2011-06-07T21:52:00.001+08:00

How Can I Keep My Prayer Life Fresh?

2011-06-04T01:03:00.002+08:00

You know that praying is important..
You know that you should be praying more..

But.. you..

Find praying boring?
Don't know what to pray for? How to pray??

Come and find out 04 June, Sat 4-7pm, on

HOW TO KEEP MY PRAYER LIFE FRESH?

See you there :)

Upcoming Programmes on Youthphoria!

2011-04-28T16:30:00.001+08:00

30 April - "When My Friend Tells Me He is Gay"

How would you react to a friend who tells you that he/she is gay/lesbian? How do you continue to be a friend as well as a blessing to him/her? Come find out at Youthphoria!

07 May - No Youthphoria due to polling day. Its a national public holiday
The nation goes to polls. You may be too young to vote, but never to you to Pray for Singapore

14 May - Season of Spiritual Habits
Watch out for the series on exciting spiritual habits! Learn what are they and how can these habits help you to fall deeper in love with God and to know His will for you in your life!

Also be excited for..

Church camp!
Lets join the church family to attend the church camp!

GDOP!
Many of our youths have been given the opportunity to serve God as a youth ministry for GDOP in the area of worship. You can join in by prayer and inviting their believing friends to come for the youth event as well, regardless of denominations!

Youth Sunday!
Come together to celebrate God goodness to our ministry!

Discover: Why is Good Friday So Good?

2011-04-21T22:56:00.002+08:00

Hello there!!

Youthphoria invites you to:

Enjoy a yummy buffet meal for free!
Watch fascinating film on the reason for Good Friday
Hear heartfelt sharing from young people like you!
Have a meaningful time with your friends (:
Discover why is Good Friday so good!

---

*This is an evangelistic event for our friends or family members to know more about Jesus in a comfortable & friendly way. Do pray and participate actively by attending & asking your friends or family members along (:

---

Place: The Naked Fish Shoppe, Grassroots Club 190 Ang Mo Kio Avenue 8, #01-02, Singapore 568046

Time: 6.30-9pm [*meet 6pm at Yio Chu Kang MRT Station]

See you there!!

A letter from the Chairman

2011-04-18T19:45:00.007+08:00

Dear Youthphorians,

A single puzzle piece will not make any sense till you start assembling them to form the complete picture.

When I was much younger, one of my puzzle pieces had always been "why is Good Friday good when it marks the day Jesus suffered and died". Seriously, how good can a day be when your king, saviour and friend died under one of the most cruel ways possible?

Furthermore, in view of the recent earthquakes and conflicts around the world, is there any reason to celebrate life at all?

I quote Rev Lawrence TC Chua: "In death and in life, our lives in Christ continue. For in Him, we have realised this glorious hope of a future with Him eternally, where in this life or the next, the abundant life continues. This is the message of hope that we carry to the nations."

Most Singaporeans today know or have at least heard of Jesus but likewise, many are just holding on to a single piece of the puzzle and are not enjoying the fulfilment of seeing the grandeur of a completed work Jesus did on the cross.

People need to see the complete picture of the Gospel story and you play a key role in helping others to do so. Afterall, we are all commissioned to make disciples of all nations and to share the good news (Matthew 28:16-20). I urge you that we approach the TGIGF party as more than a social gathering, games day or an event to rob you of your studying time. I believe and firmly view this as an opportunity for us to save one more for Jesus and pray you see the same as well.

For this coming TGIGF party, I hope you can partner the ministry in prayer and in action by bringing a friend or family member. Let's help complete the puzzle and allow others to experience the fullness of life in Christ.

Xoxo,

Rufus Chan

Chairman

Youthphoria

A reflection

2011-04-17T00:00:00.002+08:00

Hello friends, by the time most of you read this, FUSION 2011 would have been over, and i hope it was a heart-warming/life-challenging/God-encountering evening. As i went through the past week, a particular theme kept creeping up. That was the theme of crying. For some reason. I've been crying at the slightest things, which is good (for those who know what i'm talking about, Hallelujah, for those who don't, well, another story for another time).

Sometimes guys think that real men don't cry. I beg to differ. Only real men dare to cry. Real men cry out to God (i don't think i'm a REAL man YET). Real man cry when they hurt their loved ones. Real men cry when they see the world out of line with God's way. Real man cry when they see someone breaking God's heart.

Perhaps the real truth about manhood isn't simply being tough.

My QT for this week was from the passages in Genesis. And surprisingly (even to me), the first chapters gave a pretty good insight into what the biblical role of a real man is.

1. Man has to follow God's will.

2. Man has to do work.

3. Man has to love and care for women (in general and not limited to just your girlfriend, but also sister/classmate etc)

And not wanting to leave my sisters out of this post, i explored the biblical role of a real woman too.

1. Woman has been given the chance to accept the Word Of God in her life

2. Woman is expected to respond in faith

3. Woman is expected to expect blessings from God if 1 and 2 are checked.

Recently, in light of the NSF who got his maid to carry his fieldpack, as well as more recently, the NSF who carried not only his fieldpack but also his girlfriend's handbag, the role of a man is under even more scrutiny.

2 examples for the men, which i feel fit into the 3 statements above, both with contrasting effects. The first is Adam, who failed on all 3 counts. The second is Jesus, who obviously succeeded in all 3. Now wait, you might ask who is the "woman" Jesus loved. And before you label me a heretic or a blasphemer, let me clarify and say that the "bride" of Christ is the church (that's biblical), and so by giving His life for "her", He showed love and care.

2 examples for the women. The first being Eve. Who, like Adam, failed on all 3 counts. Her contrast is Mary, mother of Jesus.

I encourage us to look up the respective passages. It's rather interesting to contrast these things.

And before i forget. Some of you might have seen the video i posted quite some time ago. At first, i thought i was a great video to show us how much God loves us (as many might say, our faith has been diluted to it's all about us--another story for another time), but as the week passed, i felt that it was a challenge to the way i've been living my life.

I urge you to listen to the song twice. The first time around, listen to it as a sinner. The lyrics speak of God's immense love for you, that He hurts when He sees you cry. Feel the forgiveness in the song, along with tons of mercy and love.

The second time around, listen to the lyrics from a forgiven Christian point of view. if you know the song Hosanna, by Hillsong, there's a line in the bridge that says break my heart for what breaks yours. And that's the premise for this second listening.

Some day, i hope to sing this song back to God, confident that when He cries, i cry. Break my heart for what breaks yours.

Abraham

(http://you-are-enough.tumblr.com/)

FUSION 2011

2011-04-13T18:22:00.002+08:00

Fusion 2011 is just around the corner and we are super excited! We're going to have a fantastic time of worship, Word and of course, loads of FUN together!

*Note: Two-way transport from AMC at 3pm, and from PLMC at 10pm!

Just to give you an run-down of what will be happening:

2PM: WORKSHOPS WITH DESPERATION BAND (PLMC Sanctuary)

DB will be anchoring 2 workshops:

Workshop 1: Worship and Band Dynamics

Workshop 2: Mercy Ministry for Youths 101

4-7PM: MUNCH TO THE BEAT! (PLMC Courtyard)

Join us for a time of food and music! There's going to be loads of yummy food - hot dogs, nachos, bubble tea, Yami Yoghurt and more!! We've also got a great line up of bands from some of our churches - PLMC, AMKMC, TPMC, to name a few! Come support your bands!!

7-10PM: FUSION 2011 (PLMC Sanctuary)

Worship & Word with Desperation Band. Don't forget to bring $2 - You'll find out why!

Its going to be a GREAT time, so make sure you don't miss out!! Please remember that all events is a first come first serve basis so make sure you come early to avoid disappointment!

Fellowship & Games Galore :)

2011-04-07T21:51:00.001+08:00

Hey Youthphoria! Needa lil smth to destress??

Come this Sat 09 April 2011, 4-7pm for Fellowship & Games Galore~!!Join in a time of worship God & fellowship with friends over fun and manymanymany games :):):)

So come down and bring a friend or two for a blessed time!

and also..

We'll also be taking EXCLUSIVE last orders for Chapelthon T-shirts, to thank you all for your great help at Chapelthon. Each order is $15, payment in advance :)

Also, keep a look out for...

Fusion 2011 is just around the corner and we are super excited! We're going to have a fantastic time of worship, Word and of course, loads of FUN together!

Just to give you an run-down of what will be happening:

SATURDAY, 16 APRIL 2011: FUSION 2011 @ Paya Lebar Methodist Church (FREE ADMISSION, FIRST COME FIRST SERVE)

2PM: WORKSHOPS WITH DESPERATION BAND (PLMC Sanctuary)

DB will be anchoring 2 workshops:

Workshop 1: Worship and Band Dynamics

Workshop 2: Mercy Ministry for Youths 101

4PM: MUNCH TO THE BEAT! (PLMC Courtyard)

7PM: FUSION 2011 (PLMC Sanctuary)

Worship & Word with Desperation Band. Don't forget to bring $2 - You'll find out why!

Its going to be a GREAT time, so make sure you don't miss out!! Please remember that all events is a first come first serve basis so make sure you come early to avoid disappointment!

Fellowship & Celebrations :)

2011-04-04T20:44:00.000+08:00

Post-Chapelthon blues? Here are some events to look forward to!

Keep a lookout for 'em and start asking your friends!

Youthphoria 26 March: Getting Ready for Chapelthon!

2011-03-25T16:35:00.000+08:00

Fairfield Chapelthon is in 7 DAYS!! Come and hear the exciting things that God has been doing and is about to do in Fairfield! Join us at Youthphoria on Sat 5.30-7pm as we prepare, pray and give thanks for the event :D

Visit Fairfield Chapelthon on Facebook! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Fairfield-Chapelthon/166079810110702

is God good?

2011-03-25T10:15:00.002+08:00

Hey all,

stumbled upon a video which i thought might be meaningful:

In light of the recent disaster, here's an excerpt on Bishop Robert Solomon's reflection on the tsunami:

"It is quite common for people to think that those who suffer on earth are being punished for sins they have committed. Bad things happen to bad people and good things happen to good people. However, the book of Job challenges such notions. Bad things can happen to a good man. Wicked people can enjoy good times (Ps. 73:2-12). The reality is more complex than is popularly understood and we must not jump into hasty and mistaken judgements."

More here: http://www.methodistmessage.com/feb2005/tsunami.html
Keep praying for the world in need :)

-cheesiong

Give Us This Day Our Daily Bread

2011-03-22T12:00:00.003+08:00

Our Father who art in heaven

Hallowed be thy name.

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done,

On earth, as in heaven.

Give us this day our daily bread

And forgive our sins,

As we forgive each one of those who sins against us.

And lead us not to the time of trial

But deliver us from evil.

For thine is the kingdom, the power and the glory.

The Lord's prayer. It's a familiar passage (or song) for many of us, but what does it really mean to the ever comfortable Singaporean Christian?

For many of us, our homes are stocked with food reserves. Even if they are not, hungry in the middle of the night simply means heading down to the nearest 7-11 or 24-hour kopitam to buy back some tasty food.

So why do we recite that line in the first place?

While many might argue that perhaps "daily bread" does not always need to represent food, i', quite sure that was the original intention.

Last Saturday, our speaker shared about his work with foreign workers. The few days later, Ashley shared that they have $80 per month to cover food.

These 3 circumstances combined to give rise to this challenge.

$20 for all food expenses. That's about $2.50 a day--including the cost of home cooked meals by your parents. if your mom cooks salmon-egg rice for dinner for 4 people, take the cost of the salmon and the egg divide by 4 and add 50c for the rice. Buying a loaf of bread? Divide the number of slices you eat by the total cost of the bread. Everything is inclusive.

It's going to be hard. It's going to be uncomfortable. But perhaps after coming through this week, we'll have a better idea of what these people are going through for the majority of their working life.

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=153746178019927

http://dailybreadchallenge.blogspot.com/

At the end of the challenge, regardless of whether you succeed or not, it'll be nice to collect everyone's reflections and have a little discussion on the journey. =)

Abraham

Prove me wrong

2011-03-21T12:14:00.002+08:00

For many of us, altar calls and church/youth camps are a great chance for us to re-evaluate our lives, to see just where it all went wrong and to give that one off commitment to God telling him of our desire to get back on track with him.

The cynical me sometimes wonders if all that is just for show, or is real change really being propagated through our ranks. Perhaps the question to ask is not whether you met God, but if God met you. There is a difference you know? If you think you met God, then the effects will be hard felt for much of the time to come. Some people thing that just because they feel so connected and in tune with God during the instrumental part of an altar call, that just because they feel a sudden rush of emotions that makes them feel guilty about their stale lives, means that they have met God. God is not a rush of emotions. Although He might be, but let's let the after effects of the meeting speak for themselves.

People who are connected with God are often emotionally charged individuals, because they are able to accurately feel the love and mercy, and grace of God overflowing, not just flowing, out of them.

A meeting with God is a life changing experience. Not a month changing experience. Sometimes i too wonder if i really met God. Don't get me wrong, i'm not asking you to doubt the genuineness of your encounter, i'm asking you to consider the implications of it.

Jesus' call for our lives is to be radically different. There are pre-believers in the world who are different, no doubt about that, but we need t0 be radically different. The ability and courage to give up your reputation and pride, are 2 things i know i find hard to give up. What are the things that are holding you back?

I remember a friend i had in secondary school called Caleb. He was often ridiculed, attaining tags such as "Jesus boy" or "holy boy" and "pastor ho". But he stuck to the faith. That really impressed me personally. The extent of his commitment has never been an issue. What about the rest of us? Will we go that far to serve our God?

Maybe i'm getting old, but there was a song that was rather popular back in my day, it was called Jesus Freak, by DC Talk.

What will people think

When they hear that i'm a Jesus Freak?

What will people do when they find out it's true?

I don't really care if they label me a Jesus Freak,

There ain't no disguising the truth.

The question to ask now is not whether you are a Christian or not. That's not important. The important question is whether or not we really don't care if people label us Jesus freaks.

To stand out amongst the crowds was something the original "freak", Jesus himself did. Some labelled him crazy, preaching about God as a Father, preaching that he was the only way to God, telling them that the temple would be destroyed.

As i looked on in thankfulness at the number of you who committed yourselves to God on Saturday, i couldn't help but feel a sense of pride, that the younger ones are coming of age. But at the same time, the cynical side of me says that it's all for show, they "in the moment", you committed to God, but "out of the moment", life goes on as if nothing changed.

And while you might think of me as a pessimist, let me assure you that the one prayer i had for that whole afternoon, was that you would prove me wrong. This is one of the rare occasions in life where hate to be proven right, when the "i told you so" phrase just hurts to be said.

Let me reassure those who have changed, you know who you are. It's plain to see the truth, your lives taste, smell, feel and look of God. Which is great.

Every youth camp, the altar call is given, and everyone goes up to lay at the altar their problems, and recommit themselves to God and his people. Yet after a month, the youth attendances drop back to the same old bunch of people. It's frustrating, honestly, and i ask God about it all the time.

I know the pressures of school. For all but the current young adults, the amount of school work and assignments can no way exceed mine. Been there, done that.

Ultimately, it's a choice. I've made mine, what about you?

Abraham (with much frustration and sadness)

Why do we pray?

2011-03-19T14:43:00.002+08:00

The recent outpouring of love, donations, aid and prayers for Japan struck me, and i can't help but wonder why, why do we only pray when bad things happen?

Prior to the earthquake/tsunami, when was the last time we prayed for Japan?

I don't even have an answer to my own question, because, frankly put, i don't even remember EVER praying for Japan.

So the question is, are we waiting for disaster to strike before we pray for a particular group of people or nation?

Egypt and Libya are just 2 other examples i'll draw upon because of recent events.

I think in the midst of all our prayers for Japan, let us not forget the other nations in need of our prayers. While the deaths in Japan are more or less stable, by the time you're done reading this sentence, a great number of children in Africa would have already died. No prayers there?

I know i for one am guilty of this--praying only for what's on TV.

While i am not asking you to stop praying for Japan, i am asking you to not stop praying for the other nations as well. On a very washed down comparative scale, the deaths in Japan are insignificant compared to the 537 deaths that have occurred since the start to the end of my short sharing.

(http://webdeveloper.earthweb.com/repository/javascripts/2003/10/276371/deathcounter.html)

Pray for the world.

Abraham

SALT series

2011-03-14T16:42:00.001+08:00

I realized that if i kept posting the salt articles, they would be all over the announcements, so for those interested. Here's the continuation:

http://saltatyouthphoria.blogspot.com/

The Difference

2011-03-13T23:21:00.003+08:00

Today i stumbled across a really interesting video:

If you can spare the time, please watch the video, it'll be helpful to understand the following points.

Christianity is a movement, as much as it is a faith. We are all but followers of Christ, the "lone nut" (as many in his time, and ours would describe him to be), who risked all to show us the way. He never made it about himself, but about us. The work on the cross, the salvation for mankind. He allowed himself to be humbled and humiliated just so we would have something to live for, quite literally.

Christianity doesn't call us all to be leaders. There is only one leader, and although he is dead to the world, he still reigns in us and over us.

"When you find a lone nut doing something great, have the guts to be the first one to stand up and join in."

Jesus showed the way. Stand up and follow him.

Luke 9:23 says, "If anyone should come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow me."

-Abraham-

SALT. Part 1

2011-03-13T22:28:00.003+08:00

Hello friends, hope life has been tough on you and God has been keenly discipling all of you well. I'll try once again, to keep this short.

I remember on Sunday, Pastor Lorna mentioned the phrase "salt and light" during her sermon. And it got me thinking about what it means to be salt. We all know the analogy; salt is used as a seasoning, in food, to give it taste. So that means, when Jesus implores us to be salt to the world, we are supposed to "give it taste" in a sense.

But is that all salt does?

Let me give you an alternative view point.

Salt makes people thirsty.

I feel that we are meant to make the world thirsty. And when they get thirsty, they need to drink. Many will search for water from their own cisterns, from wells they dig, from holes in the ground, or from clouded streams and rivers. But regardless of where they drink from, we need to keep making them thirsty. Why? So that some day, they might come to realize why we ourselves are not like them, why we ourselves are not thirsty.

That reason is simple. We have Jesus. He is the stream of living water, the source of restoration and the cure for thirstiness.

The way we live our lives has to be in the world, but not of the world. It has to be different. The goals is to make them thirsty, to the point where Jesus is the only solution.

I know i've been in their place before. I've been thirsty yet tried to find my own water source, only to be salted by strong faith driven Christians within our church to come to the conclusion and conviction that Jesus is indeed the way the truth and the life as He claimed.

Isn't it time the rest of the world saw things the same way?

Salt makes people thirsty.

-Abraham-

Owls.

2011-03-13T15:41:00.003+08:00

Stumbled upon a post on my friend's facebook wall recently. And surprise surprise. It's from the Owl City blog. For those who don't know Owl City, it's the guy (yes it's just one guy) who sang Hello Seattle or Cave in. Recently he did a cover of a great song. The way he sings it, shows something. That song is "In Christ Alone".

http://owlcityblog.com/2010/10/25/my-hope-is-found/#more-1942

But more important is his response to the song after that.

As I’m so often reminded what a priceless gift my life is, I ache with everything in me to make it count, so that when I finally cross the finish line, I’ll hear the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

To me, there is no greater reward.

Of course, all of this weighs heavily on the spiritual scale, so allow me to be completely honest and say none of it is intended to be “crammed down the throat,” if you will. That is not my intention. This is what I wholeheartedly believe, and to that belief, I remain steadfast until He returns or calls me home.

One thing is certain:

When He comes for His own, He will have no trouble recognizing me… because my banner will be clear.

I couldn't have said it any better. Will your banner be clear?

Abraham

Important info for RANGO movie outing :)

2011-03-10T21:00:00.001+08:00

Dearest friends,

Welcome to this post! Here are some important instructions for "Rango" on 12 March 2011.

(Pls note that discounted ticket is reserved for youths attending event till 7.30pm. Otherwise, normal cost of $10 applies.)

a. Please reach Vivocity Cinema 3.30pm.

b. Find your table talk buddy to collect your tix. Pay $6 if you've not done so :)

c. Movie starts 4.05pm.

d. After movie, follow your table talk buddy for chit chat chill-out.

e. Event ends 7.30pm. See you soon.

Groups (* indicates table talk buddy)

1. Sean Yeo*, Russell Tan, Thia Yuxian

2. Ashley Lim*, Chris Chng, Loh Junming

3. Abraham Kang*, Li Ann, Kenneth Goh

4. Bryan Loon*, Mark Leong, Xavier Tan

5. Jonathan Seow*, Irwin Tan, Ryan Sebastian

6. Edwin Wong*, Joel Tay, Daniel Choo

7. Charis Choo*, Michelle Ng, Alexandria Wong

8. Natalie Ang*, Athalia Choo, Caren Tso

9. Amanda Woon*, Grace Lee, Clarissa Liew, Amanda Choo, Amanda Ong

10. Lim Yuming*, Calista Tan, Alicia, Alexis Foo

11. Janell Tan*, Abigail Chew, Cheryl Wong

12. Diana Kang*, Pearlyn Tay, Dawn Seow

13. Tiffany Tan*, Yee Minyi, Charlyn Tay

14. Wendy Chiang*, Rudy Wong, Rufus Chan

15. Maverick*, Chee Siong*, Hezekiah Tan, Ian Harijanto, Loh Junhong, Jerald Tan, Abraham Sui, Elton Ang

Come ready to have fun! Come ready to share your story with another person!

Stand Out and Don't Blend In,

Wendy Chiangca

ADAM vs EVE OUTING w MOVIE (Saturday, 12 March 2011)

2011-03-04T21:21:00.020+08:00

Hey all,

As you may have known, Adam vs Eve, is a yearly exciting epic Youthphoria event where guys and girls fellowship and have fun in our respective gender groups, to share and support each other in our gender-unique challenges :)

This year, Adam vs Eve is back, bigger and better on Saturday, 12 MARCH 2011! We are meeting at VivoCity (monorail station, level 3) at 3.30pm!

(pls also pay up if you have not done so!)
***

Youthphoria will go down to the theatre to catch the movie RANGO together! Learn from Rango, the pet chameleon with an identity crisis. Watch him as he goes on an adventure to find his true self, and inadvertently becomes a hero for everyone :D

See you there!

The Kingdom of God

2011-03-03T20:52:00.001+08:00

Last Sunday, some of you might have fallen victim to my highly "interesting" question: "What does the Kingdom of God (KOG) on earth mean to you?"

Now, I'm not asking this to play a fool with your minds, but because I feel it's an important question to answer. I believe that there's no 100% correct answer which can safely reconcile our earthly lives and the biblically accurate definition. However, i think it's important that each one us has at least an idea of what the KOG to us, and to each other, in order for things to actually work.

Of course, you might be wondering why we each to have an idea of what the KOG is to ourselves. Honestly, it's a hard to grasp concept, and it's taken me a loooooong time to finally start to understand its importance to our lives, the way we live, and the way we do missions (local with our friends and family, and abroad).

In the Gospel of Matthew, and especially Mark and Luke, Jesus himself teaches about the KOG, using a host of parables, from the parable of the growing seed, to the parable of the sower, and the parable of the mustard seed. He also talks about how the KOG is "within us", yet he also says that while it is within us and on earth, it is also yet to come.

In Matthew 6:33, Jesus tells us to seek first the KOG. Perhaps now some of you might realize why the question is actually important. If we ourselves have no idea what the KOG is, how then are we supposed to seek first his kingdom?

Week in, week out, each of us faithfully says (now sings) the Lord's prayer.

Our Father in heaven,

Hallowed be thy name,

Thy Kingdom come, thy will be done,

on earth as in heaven.

What does it mean to us, for his kingdom to come?

If this article makes you feel guilty then i'm sorry, but that was not my intention, it's just to make us stop and consider just what exactly it means to be ushering in the Kingdom of God, not only in our lives, but in the world as well.

Let's stop voicing empty promises and prayers to God, and actually mean what we say, and in order to do this, we need to each come to a common understanding, through, and only through the conviction of the Holy Spirit, as to what exactly, is the Kingdom of God.

How else, would our hearts be able to be joined in one desire, to see His Kingdom come?

Abraham

How to Talk so that Parents will Listen?

2011-02-24T00:06:00.003+08:00

*Hey all, the talk did not happen last week cos of some mix-ups (d'oh!) so sorry for inconveniences! Come THIS SAT, 5 MAR, for the long awaited 'How to Talk so Parents Listen' session :)

"Your pants are on fire!"

As youths grow older, parents become estranged from our world – or is it the other way round? How can we bridge the generation and communication gap? How do we truly "honour our father and mother?"

Come on down this Sat 4-7pm and learn:
• What IS a family?
• Understanding parents
• Communicating effectively
• Dealing with conflict

"Honor your father and your mother, as the LORD your God has commanded you, so that you may live long and that it may go well with you in the land the LORD your God is giving you." - Deut 5:16

HOT Stuff

2011-02-23T21:51:00.004+08:00

In light of the She's Hot, He's Hot talks recently at Youthphoria (this was a concurrent talk, one for 15 and under, and 16 and above about love, dating and courtship), here's an attached guy's view of the term "HOT".

Since SOME people have lamented that the posts are too long. Here's the shortest, most succinct post ever from me!

Although i might not have the relationship expertise of Wendy & Leslie (married for donkey years) or Rufus & Gracia (married for butterfly years), Minyi and Ian (attached for hot dog years), but i'm pretty sure they would advocate similar sentiments. HEHE.

So here we go. The 3 things you should look for in a HOT partner!!

(1) Being HOT means being Holy.

Holy is defined as "Living according to a strict or highly moral religious or spiritual system" in the dictionary. Put simply, this means that person is a strict, no compromise follower of Christ. This person who is holy, should have his/her life set in Christ, their identity is secure regardless of the order or mess in their lives. God calls us to be holy in the areas (although not limited to) our money [2 Cor 9:6,7 & 1 Tim 5:8], our relationships [1 Tim 5:1-2] etc.

(2) Being HOT means being On-fire.

Being on fire for God is quite clear to see. It doesn't mean that one has to be out spoken and very eager to jump onto the committee of every project. All it entails is a zeal for serving others due to the outflowing of Christ's love for us [Rom 12:11 & 1 Thess 5:19]. This means the person is constantly going out of his/her way to serve others, even if it is in the most minute ways. Being on-fire is a result of being holy.

(3) Being HOT means being Trustworthy.

Personally, honesty and trustworthiness are 2 very important parts of my relationship. Being trustworthy doesn't mean being available 24/7, nor does it mean being perfect and never failing. It means that he/she has the integrity and humility to please God. When you look at this person, are you confident that God trusts him/her a lot?

So here are my views. The person you're interested in has to be:

(1) Holy

(2) On-fire

(3) Trustworthy

These 3 have to come first, before anything else, because these are the lasting foundations on which successful relationships are built on.

Don't believe me? Ask the above-mentioned couples.

Abraham

I Am A Failure

2011-02-21T23:13:00.003+08:00

Failure is inevitable. By now if you've yet to experience any sort of failure in your life, you better be worried. We've all failed in some area of our lives. I know i've failed in school, in relationships, even in sports. I've failed in life, in godly living, and in worshiping God with the right heart. if you're human like me, i'm sure you'll be able to identify with some of my short comings.

But it's all right. Plainly because God loves to use failure to show His redemptive power.

Let's take a look at some biblical examples. This after all is a blog dedicated to God and not to me.

1. The failure of Adam and Eve

In the beginning, God created man and woman and said it was good. But man failed. They failed to live accordance to God's instructions, and so were banished from the garden of eden. Yet at their lowest point, at their point of failure, God still redeemed them with a covenant. In Genesis 3:15, we read of God's promise (go look it up, don't be lazy!). And this promise was later fulfilled by Jesus Himself as seen in Galatians 4:4 together with 1 John 3:8.

2. Failure of Pre-flood Mankind

People hardened their hearts to sin. They failed to obey God, and He destroyed the entire earth, save for one man, Noah, as we all know, survived the flood with his family. And here's the next example of God's redemptive power for show. Noah was saved through water, in way, and Jesus, who came later on, also saved through baptism, which involves water.

3. Failure of Israel

If you look back to all the stories of the Bible, especially the Old Testament, from Genesis all the way to Malachi, you'll notice there's one common theme, that there are multiple failures that the Israelites experience, mostly because of themselves. They drifted from God's commands, even after the great experience in the desert. They mixed with pagan gods even after God showed himself faithful all those years before. Yet one thing remained constant. That was God, and His faithfulness to the covenant He made with their forefathers, Abraham, Issac, Jacob, etc. In the end, God redeemed not just Israel but the rest of mankind with the ultimate act of mercy and love, by sending His son Jesus Christ to die on the cross for everyone of us.

4. Failure of you and me

So let's come to the present day. You failed. So what? It's just the start of God's redemptive plans for you. Believe me, even when you're down low and feel like there's no one who understands you, when you feel distant from God with no pride at all to face Him, when you feel left out from your friends. God is waiting to redeem you.

Sure it'll hurt. Since when did failure not hurt? God doesn't expect us to be emotionless. He just wants us to believe that He is sovereign over all our circumstances. That what the world judges as failure, He judges as an avenue for His grace.

The question is.. Will we let Him redeem us? Or will we reject Him outright. Suicide cases are the way to reject God's grace and redemption.

The next time we fail. Let us not forget the failure of Jesus. To the world, He was a failure. The self proclaimed Messiah who could not save Himself from death, who ended his short life at just 33. To the Jews who were looking for a political and military savior, Jesus was the epiptomy of failure. Yet God, having the overall big picture, used this "failure" for the greater good.

It's feels bad to fail the world. But what if we could succeed in Christ?

Let's strive towards that, spurring each other on towards success in Christ, because we did not receive a spirit that makes us a slave again to fear (of failure), but we received the Spirit of sonship, and by Him we cry Abba Father.

Abraham

Of Lions & Antelopes

2011-02-21T02:52:00.006+08:00

To the student in his second year of university, stress is being unsure of my future career.
For the boy in love, stress is being unsure whether my girlfriend prefers Indonesian food or Italian food for Valentine’s Day.
For the son in transition to manhood, stress is knowing deep down that I’m nowhere near to being the man my father is, and that he doesn’t have another 50 years with me.
To the brother who’s about to send this younger brother off to Princeton, stress is realizing that we’re going to be 21 places apart on the QS scale.
To the PCGL of secondary 3 boys, stress is not knowing if I can ever do enough for my kids such that they surpass me in spiritual maturity some day.
To the friend listening, stress is not knowing the words to say to my troubled friend who always seemed to have the right words for me.
To the writer of this article, stress is not knowing what to include and exclude such that you get to read a good piece of writing.

As i write this, it is the start of my recess week, basically a week long break from the rigors of varsity life, where the primary aim, is not rest, but revision for the mid semester tests that await at the start of next week. It's no wonder then, that you will probably notice that many of our leaders (especially those in university) are starting to show signs of stress.

What exactly is stress? Stress by definition, is a state of mental or emotional strain or suspense. Is stress unavoidable? Is it a tool used by the devil to get us away from God? Or could it be representing the hand of God pushing us in the right direction?

If you take the time to search through your Bible, you will note that there is actually no biblical mention of the word stress, but that doesn’t mean the Bible does not address it. Stress includes the pressures that are borne by an individual by the situations and circumstances of his life. A quick search on biblical stress turned up over 40 verse references.

Some Christians believe that as followers of Christ, we should be exempt from troubles. Some believe that those who have problems are lacking in faith, or have sinned greatly. Another handful might believe that the Devil has targeted them.

Neither of these are true. For the full biblical references, please approach your leaders or better still, read your Bible!

I believe that problems are inevitable. The real issue is not how much stress we have, but how we balance our lives, our needs and wants, and our priorities. The Bible makes it clear that Christians should expect problems. Our attitude towards them should be to allow these events to shape our spirituality, by seeing them as avenues for God’s action, and our move to rely fully on the sufficiency of God’s grace.

So what now? Do we wallow in self pity, feeling let down by the world, sucked into the seemingly never ending cycle of work-eat-sleep-work-eat-sleep? Or is there a real way out of this?

First, we need to examine and identify the source of our stress. There are 2 types of stress, eustress and distress. Eustress is positive and short term; it feels exciting and motivates us to focus on a particular task. Distress on the other hand is negative, ranging from short to long term; it feels unpleasant and causes anxiety, decreasing our performance in any given task.

If you have eustress, simply carry on with life. It can only make you stronger. If you’ve identified it as distress, then some things have got to change!

What happens now that we have identified the source of distress? How can we be sure that it is from God?

First, we need to immerse ourselves in the Word of God. Simply reading a verse a day for the sake of reading isn't going to cut it. The advice is to spend time each morning in the Word, with the Word, letting it sink it fully before carrying on with your day. What many people do not understand is that the Bible is a great escape from the miseries of our world. It’s God’s grace revealed In text. Immersing yourself in the Word is a daily choice. When it becomes an obligation, the stress relieving ability of immersion is lost. Yet, the benefits of this one choice are so great; they will literally change your life. The next time you feel like picking up a Twilight novel, pick the book of Revelations instead!

The second step to a distress-free life is prayer. Philippians 4:6-7 says, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Jesus Christ.” (NIV)

It sounds so simple, yet many of us, me included have failed to reap the dividends from this promise many times in our lives. Over the past few weeks, God has been challenging me to pray for specific things.

Many a time, we find ourselves praying in general, for example, praying for good time management. By specific prayers, it would mean praying for a conducive environment, praying against specific distractions, such as Facebook, PSP, TV etc, and praying for hardworking friends who will study alongside myself. The reason why I had been so disillusioned with prayer in the past was that it was hard to see my prayers answered, simply because they were all so general. It might be that I lacked faith to ask specifically. If that is you today, I encourage you to try just ONE specific need.

You’ll be pleasantly surprised at what God can do, and as time goes on, you’ll be able to see God answering more and more of these specific prayers, which will lead to an increase in faith, and less stress.

The third step to a distress-free life, is exercise. Unlike myself, my father sticks to a regular running regime. He runs 5 times a week, for at least half an hour each time, even spending some additional time sparring against my brother in squash. The physiological benefits of exercise are not foreign to us, including but not limited to strengthening the internal organs, like the heart and lungs, to make us more resistant to disease, reducing mental anxiety—a psychosomatic effect, and detoxification—getting rid of the bad stuff.

**Fun fact: My dad has gone from very obese, high blood pressure, surviving 2 heart attacks to a perfectly normal health conditions.

When God called us to good stewardship, He wasn’t just talking about money. He was talking about our bodies as well. Even more so since our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Cor 6:19-20). If you rented me your house for any period of time wouldn’t you expect at least a decent amount of housekeeping on my part?

Herein lies the root of the problem—discipline. Most of us lack discipline to follow through, be it with a Bible reading plan, a choice for daily prayer or an exercise plan. I found that the top reason for myself giving up on an exercise plan was that I became too engrossed with my work.

If we truly believe that our bodies are the temples of the Holy Spirit, then work has to come secondary. In the Old Testament Israel, when the temple of God was standing in all its glory, when the priests were taking good care of the altars, and the courtyards, the land of Israel flourished.

However, when the temple became corrupted and people stopped caring, they lost the favor of the Lord.

When we subject our bodies to junk food, and ask God to bless the food, it’s equivalent to telling God that we’re going to dump garbage into his temple, and we want him to clean it up for us. For once, the world might be right when it says to eat right and exercise.

You must be wondering why this article is titled “The Lions and the Antelopes” by now.

Every morning in Africa, an Antelope wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the fastest lion or it will be killed. That same morning, a Lion wakes up. It knows it must run faster than the slowest Antelope or it will starve to death. It doesn’t matter whether you are a lion or an antelope, when the sun comes up, you better start running.

In the world we live in, It’s equally stressful being a lion or an antelope. Whether we are running away from troubles, or chasing after our goals, the world tells us that distress is inevitable.

The world today gives us thousands of ways to alleviate stress, from martial arts classes, to yoga, meditation, and self-help books, but Jesus gave one, and only one reply to this issue, He reminds us to hand our burdens over to Him.

If that is how God clothes the grass of the field.. Will he not much more clothes you—you of little faith? So do not worry… But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given unto you as well. (Matthew 6:30-33, NIV).

The next time you feel yourself getting stressed, I urge you to ask yourself two very simple questions, first,

“Do I believe that God has the power and ability to solve all my worries and stresses?”

and the second,

“Do I trust Him enough to let him take control of my life?”

Stress is inevitable, but the key difference between us and the rest of the world, should be that we know that God loves us, and we do not walk alone.

It’s high time we escaped the cycle of being lions or antelopes. In the words of Peter (from the Message translation), “So be content with who you are, and don’t put on airs. God’s strong hand is on you; he’ll promote you at the right time. Live carefree before God; he is most careful with you. (1 Peter 5:6-7)

Abraham

References:

1. Definition of Stress, Dictionary.com

2. Types of Stressors (Eustress vs. Distress) by Harry Mills, Ph.D., Natalie Reiss, Ph.D. and Mark Dombeck, Ph.D, Behavioral Medicine Network, http://www.behavioralmedicinenetwork.com/poc/view_doc.php?type=doc&id=15644&cn=117

The Karen: Forgotten but not Forsaken

2011-02-21T00:29:00.000+08:00

The Karen: Forgotten but not Forsaken - HD Version from Suzanne Smith on Vimeo.

FABULOUS FEBRUARY! (..and March)

2011-02-10T19:22:00.009+08:00

Hey all,

Wondering about LOVE & RELATIONSHIPS? Check out the upcoming topics in Youthphoria!

Find REAL ANSWERS this Sat 4-7pm, and the weeks to come, as we learn from REAL EXPERTS about Love, Life, and Relationships : )

Do invite your friends along, and SEE YOU THERE!

19 FEB:

He's Hot. She's Not. (13-15 years old)

What makes a guy or girl hot? Are guys and girls really that different? Puzzled by the gazillion myths floating around about guy-girl relationships? This talk will give you a new perspective on what’s hot and what’s not, and set some of those myths straight once and for all.
• What makes a guy or girl attractive?
• Goals with the opposite sex (friendship and dating)
• Guys and girls are different!
• Common myths about the opposite sex and relationships

Love Factually (16-20 years old)
Here’s an invitation to find out anything or everything you’ve wanted to know about falling in love and staying in love. Get the real deal about dating and discover how you can develop healthy and lasting relationships.
• Keeping it real – an objective view of love and dating
• Setting your standards before falling in love
• Communication with the opposite sex – differences & love languages
• Marriage – what’s love got to do with it?

26 FEB How Can I Make My Parents LISTEN?

5 MAR Understanding my Sexuality

See you then!!!
:D

Youthphoria's Knowledge Cafe!

2011-01-20T22:17:00.000+08:00

Find out what ministries are there in Youthphoria, and how you can use your gifts and talents in these areas to bless others!

Fun activities included:)

So see you there, SAT 4-7pm!

Youthphoria Sec1s Welcome Party!

2011-01-06T20:52:00.003+08:00

On 15 Jan, Saturday 08 Jan, 4-7pm is the BIG PARTY to welcome the new Sec1s! :D

Theme is "Old School" so come in your sch-related T-shirt, and wear covered shoes for many games!! Food party included!!

So come on down, and do invite your Sec1 friends along!! See you there : )

*Note: All youths are welcomed! (not only sec1s)

Thanksgiving and Prayer Pointers

2011-01-01T16:31:00.001+08:00

Hey youths!

These are our Thanksgiving and Prayer concerns that were shared during the Year End Prayer and Praise event! Do continue to give thanks and pray for the ministry of Youthphoria :)

THANKSGIVING

•Faithfulness and humble service of PCGLs + Ministry Teams leaders and members

•Mentors in ministries. Older musicians who have a heart and commitment to Ministry, partnering with the younger ones.

•God’s provision in bringing programmes like Audio Xchange , Games Days and Encounter ‘10 to pass.

•Youthphorians: Reaching out and bringing friends.

•Deeper sincerity in establishing friendships and engaging newcomers.

•Growing desire to deepen their personal prayer walk and life with You.

•For the sending of Jesus Christ; we have hope, purpose and a eternal destiny because He came.

PRAYER for NEEDS

•Greater passion for Fairfield + Vision for it as our mission field.

•Leadership renewal: Father God, stir and challenge our Youths to serve You! Guide us, give us wisdom in grooming others to lead.

•All Leaders: Boldness, Faith and Wisdom in serving the Lord and our Youths.

•For a deeper hunger for God’s Word, to be grounded in its truth.

"Brothers and sisters, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." Philippians 3:13-14

Encounter-ing again, and again, and again.

2010-12-18T00:19:00.004+08:00

It's a week since Encounter 2010: FUEL ended, so i'm here to ask the question.. How has your walk with God been since then? Has it stayed at the mountain top high? Or has it already languished into the valleys of despair? I sincerely hope it's the former.

The world says that if you do something consistently for 21 days, it becomes a habit, today is day 7, keep it up for another 2 weeks and you would have started a great habit of walking and growing with God, through prayer, and reading of the Word.

As some of you might know, i am rather doubtful about the seriousness of people who respond to altar calls year in year out, each year they commit their lives to God, and each year, you see them falter within the first 2 months, and you wonder where the conviction came from, was it out of guilt, or really from God.

Many have labelled our generation as the strawberry generation, easily bruised and lacking the spine required to make an impact. Sometimes, i'm sad to say that i have to agree. Many of us are politically and socially empathetic, not willing to stand up for anything that's right in our country, not even mentioning our world. Sometimes we lack the faith to trust that God is perfect in all His ways.

We lack the passion to pursue God. We lack the desire to know God. We lack the humility to allow God to mold us. In a world overwhelmed by sexual impurity, consumerism and hate, are we really the difference? Do we really have what it takes to change the world through Christ? Or do we just add up to the figures, another statistic in the global economy, without any distinguishing factor from the rest of the world? Does our light really shine in the darkness? Do we add salt to the world? Does our life scream of God's love?

This year, as you all enter 2011, i pray that i will see a generation that goes beyond Sunday (and Saturday) services and weekly PCG meetings and learn to love God every second of every day. I pray that i will see a generation of youths who go beyond memorizing Bible verses and knowing Bible stories to live out transformed lives based on the Truth, as our witness to the world. I pray that i will see bold and courageous young men and women who will stand up for their faith in their schools and their work places, so that we can bring glory to our God, our Heavenly Father.

For you did not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear, but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by him we cry "Abba, Father."

Stay Empowered.

Nobody knows how weak I am
Better than You
Nobody sees all of my needs
Better than You
And nobody has
The power to change me
To what I was born to be
Jesus, be strong in my weakness
Empower me

Empower me
Like a rushing river flowing to the sea
Lord, send Your Holy Spirit
Flowing out through me
‘Til I’m living as Your child
Victorious and free
Send the power of Your love
Empower me
Nobody’s eyes see through my soul
Better than You
And nobody’s love can make me whole
No love but Yours
And nobody has the power
To lift me to reach for eternity
Jesus break through all my defences
Empower me

Empower me
Like a rushing river flowing to the sea
Lord, send Your Holy Spirit
Flowing out through me
‘Til I’m living as Your child
Victorious and free
Send the power of Your love
Empower me

Abraham

Can you handle this?

2010-12-17T12:37:00.001+08:00

WATCH THIS SPACE FOR SOMETHING EXCITING. COMING TO A SCREEN NEAR YOU IN APPROXIMATELY 24HOURS.

YES IT HAS TO DO WITH ENCOUNTER AND FUEL 2010. YES YOU WILL LIKE IT.

AND YES YOU WILL COME BACK HERE TO SEE WHAT IT IS.

Youthphoria

2010-12-06T23:55:00.004+08:00

Youth camp starts this Friday, 10th December 2010 and we hope you are looking forward to it! I sure am!

Here is the list of things to bring for camp to facilitate your quick packing!

- Bible

- Stationery - pen, markers, colour pencils, etc.

- Journal (if you have one you are currently using. Otherwise, we will be distributing the Youthphoria journals at camp as well!)

- Toiletries

- Sweater

- 4 sets of clothing (minimum)

- Blanket

- Shoes

- Slippers

- Water bottle

- Torchlight

- Personal Medication (if any)

In addition, don't forget to

1) Give your parents the invitation card for Omega Night and drop them a gentle reminder to reply Charis if they are coming and

2) Give your parents the emergency contact numbers (Edwin's, Wendy's and my handphone numbers, which we gave out during the briefing on Saturday! If you don't have it, drop a comment/ tag and we will get back to you asap! Leave your name so we know we aren't giving our numbers to any stranger!)

Looking forward to seeing you during camp!

God bless all!

Debbie

CAMP PACKING LIST

2010-12-04T22:19:00.006+08:00

Hey campers!

Not sure what to pack?

Here's the packing list:


Bible Stationery - Pen, Color Pencil Journal Toiletries Sweater 4 set of clothing min. Blanket Shoes Slippers Water Bottle Personal Medication Torchlight Be excited for camp!!! :D

ENCOUNTER 2010 PRAYER POINTERS

2010-12-04T11:02:00.003+08:00

Hey all,

Here are the prayer pointers that were sent out throughout the week!

Monday 29 Nov:  The Lord our God is Great! Let us pray for our camp speakers Peter and Christina. May the Lord bless them and keep them; the Lord make His face shine upon them and be gracious unto them; the Lord turn His face toward them and given them peace. (Numbers 6:24-26) In Jesus ' Name we pray, Amen.

Tuesday 30 Nov: Dear Father, tdy I commit the camp committee into Your hands as they work the last lap before camp. May each person experience the joy of serving You. Indeed it is a privilege to serve You, our Almighty King!

Wednesday 01 Dec: Lets join together in prayer for Wendy as she prepares to direct our camp spiritually. May God continue to inspire, enlighten and grow her every single day. Thank God for her presence in Youthphoria - we are so blessed to have her.

Thursday 02 Dec:  Dear Father, today I wld like to just commit eveything regarding camp into Your hands. We pray that You'll bless the entire camp and every participant - everything be for Your glory O God!

Friday 03 Dec:  Dear God, with 1 wk to camp we pray tht every camper will come with a heart tht expects great things to happen to them in camp [for ppl going camp: I pray tht i may come to knw You better & in a more personal way this camp, to learn to truly abide in Christ, the one needful thing] Amen!

Let us keep praying unceasingly, for God to do a good work in us and thru us this youth camp! :)

Youth Camp Briefing!

2010-11-30T19:47:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Hope we're all excited for the camp!!! Lets be preparing our hearts and pray in one accord each night at 10pm according to the prayer pointers sent out :)

The briefing for camp will be held on this Saturday, 4-7pm at the basement room in church! We'll get to know what to bring, what to expect, etc. So see you there!!!

Powerful Testimony from N. Korea

2010-11-23T11:21:00.001+08:00

The narrow path

2010-11-19T10:11:00.005+08:00

Many people know the sermon on the mount that our Lord Jesus gave in Matthew 6, but do you know what happens in Matthew 7?

I wanted to share something that's been on my mind lately. The verse is taken from Matt 7:13-14 (NIV version):

“Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. ¹⁴ But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it.

This passage speaks of 2 gates, in verses 15-23, it speaks of 2 guides, and verses 24-27, it speaks of 2 foundations that mankind builds its life upon. But because of lack of time (exam in 24hours), i shall just be focusing on the first part, which is v13-14.

We all know the 2 gates, either you believe, or you don't, simple as that. The gate to hell is broad and inviting, which is in stark contrast to the gates of heaven, which are narrow and restrictive. In fact, it is restrictive to the point of being exclusive.

The 2nd part of this verse says that the road that leads to life is narrow, and few find it. So a narrow gate and now what? A narrow road too? That's why few find it. Simply because walking on a narrow path for an entire lifetime is just too hard for many. This is demonstrated by many (including me in the past), who claim to be Christians yet display no change in their lifestyle. When it comes to life, i believe strongly that it is black and white, there is no in between. It's either loved by God or hated by God. God is love and therefore He must HATE. God hates sin. And i think in our generation, we constantly see our peers comparing their relative states of Christianity and thinking to themselves/ourselves "hey, i think i'm doing okay compared to everyone else". That's unbiblical, but i'll save that for another day.

The narrow gate we all know, the gate is Jesus, but the narrow path? We have to find it and find it soon. If you're on it already great. But compare yourself to the Bible to judge that. If you know that you're not on that path, be warned. In the end days when Jesus comes again He will look upon a group of people who have seemingly done good all their life. These people will say "Lord, Lord" but Jesus will say "I do not know you".

Does your lifestyle fit the narrow path? Or do you just know that the narrow gate exist?

We are not saved by the sinner's prayer. We are saved by a relationship with Jesus, and that entails a transformed life.

On a side note...

This video has been taken in its original context from TED.com.

*Video width reduced to fit into the blogskin!*

A friend of mine shared this, and the last part of this video, i think we can learn from as well, not only with respect the ex-sex slaves but also to the so called "un-lovable" group.

NOTE: If we acknowledge there's an unlovable group then we're effectively saying we are bigger than God. Because for God so loved THE WORLD. So yes. Just a parting thought.

Abraham

Father's Love Letter

2010-11-14T00:54:00.002+08:00

Hey guys... Thought that I just wanted to post this video that I shared today on the blog so that you guys can look at it whenever you need encouragement from God yea?

This is extractions of His Love Letter to you... God longs to speak to you daily... Take time to build on your relationship with Him daily yea? Be it Reading of God's Word, Prayer, Worship... No other better place then to be in the Father's presence... :) Take Care and God bless all ya lovely people... :)

In His Service,

Jun Ming

Saturday 13 Nov 2010!

2010-11-11T12:38:00.000+08:00

Youthphoria is ON this Sat 4-6pm! Come for a time of worship & fellowship with friends! Hear inspiring lessons from JUNMING as he shares abt THE LIFE OF MOSES :)

"Even the Rocks Cry Out": Praise & Worship at Cairnhill MC. KEVIN LAM has won the third prize for songwriting competition and will share his song at the event! Bus provided at AMC at 6pm. Come support him :D

MeAsure of Success - which ruler are u using?

2010-11-05T17:17:00.005+08:00

5Cs, the forbes rich list, salary, the cars we drive, the bags we carry are sometimes what we use to measure success in our world today. The pursuit of success never seem to fulfill our inner needs. Find out more tomorrow as I touch on God's measure of success and how we all can achieve spiritual success!

Rufus Chan

Exams, Grades and Us.

2010-10-31T00:24:00.007+08:00

This article is taken (yes wholesale) from the current chairperson of NUS VCF, Patrick Ang, a year 4 physics major, and this are his reflections on his journey so far coupled with some insights from his peers over the years. The names he mentions in the post are his friends so they might not sound familiar to many of you, regardless, read on.

This goes out to all students. Which is like most of Youthphoria.

Exams, Singapore & Us

Exams are a big part of growing up in Singapore. Now in my final year in NUS, I have went through 6 years of pri sch, 4 years of sec sch, 2 years of jc, 3 years in uni. Counting all the major exams => 12+1(PSLE)+8+1(O lvl)+6 (jct, promo, mct, jct, prelims, A lvl)+6 (3 years in NUS)= 34! That is 34 cycles of mugging, last-minute revisions, anxieties before exams, taking the exams, celebrations after exams and receiving results…

If I am not mistaken, repetition is one of the best ways to build habits whether good or bad. It would be hard to argue that these 34 cycles of exams have no influence upon our lives and thinking. But because exams have become such an integral part of our lives, we are blind to its effects upon us unless we are willing to step back and critique ourselves honestly.

Obsession about Grades

Exams are so important because of grades. Blame it on the meritocratic society if you want but I feel that is just pushing away responsibility. Remember that we are part of the ones who shape this society. From as young as primary one, we have been drilled that grades will make or break our future. Whenever we bring back our report books, our parents would be more concerned about how well we did and how can we improve. I remember when I was in primary school, my parents always loved to check my class position. Then they would love to tell our neighbours and relatives. Sadly, I don’t remember them asking me “What did I learn in school?” To my parents and I, the materials I study are just tools to achieve what we are really after – the good grades on the PSLE certificate.

Such thoughts had been reinforced by my schools and teachers. I remember doing countless past exam papers, even those from other schools. While I agree that I did learn things from my multiple practices, the emphasis is always about answering to obtain the highest marks rather than to appreciate what I am learning. It is fair to say that I probably didn’t have the maturity to appreciate anything then, but this obsessive focus on grades have been reinforced in my sec sch and JC days.

Think about it. If someone were to ask you “How was your exam today?” how would you determine if it was good or not? You would consider how many questions you answered, how confident you are with your questions and probably how many marks you have already lost. We hardly mention about what are the new understanding we get from doing the exam. Neither do we take time to look up the gaps of understanding we realized we have after the exam.

So it is only natural that we bring this kind of mindset to my university education as well. People talk about their CAP so frequently. It determines which modules we would take, the effort we put into studying and the way we study. When choosing a module, I frequently hear people asking what grades did their friends get. People would recommend modules if it is easy to score or has a light workload. Concerning effort, we would also hear people saying “I am going to S/U this module so I am not going to spend too much time studying.” Concerning the way we study, we would spot questions, review past year papers, memorise things when we don’t understand or be kaisu and copy EVERYTHING into my cheat sheet. (Don’t get me wrong. I am not saying it is bad or not. I struggle as I observe these things about how I approach my learning.)

To a large extent, exams seem to have taken the joy out of our studying. It seems to be a necessary evil since without exams we wouldn’t be studying as much. I wonder what to make of this…

Who determines our value: God or Grades?

Here’s my first attempt to question our mindset towards grades and maybe review it in the light of God’s revealed truth. Instead of just measuring our intellectual abilities, we have unconsciously allowed grades to define who we are in our daily conversations.

“I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made…” (Psalm 139:14a)

Maybe it is an Asian culture thing or maybe we are just insecure human beings that aren’t satisfied in our identity in Christ, we forget our value in God doesn’t diminish or increase due to our grades.

Competition: How do we see our peers?

We like to ask people about their grades. If we get a B, we would withhold our excitement. We would be overjoyed if we are the few who scored better. We would be disappointed and unsatisfied with our grade if we realized all our peers got an A. We derive the value of our grades based on our friends’ performance. This kind of mindset is so deep within us. I remembered scoring an A and three Bs for my GCE ‘A’ levels. I was satisfied and thanked God. But my heart sank a little when I found out that a third of the whole school scored three As.

As we enter the University, the competitive mindset remains. I remember a Maths major was saying “Let’s wear red and white into the exam hall. Support Team Singapore!” Among the students who take Maths, there is a large group of excelling PRC students. For a Singaporean student to score an A in the module is close to impossibility. Generally, local students view foreigner students as competition. Instead of showing love and hospitality and seeing them as people, they have been reduced to objects that we need to “triumph over for our survival”. I wonder if the struggle to break away from this mindset is felt even between friends taking the same module.

“And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'” (Matt 22:39)

It is easy to love those who love you. To love those who help you with your schoolwork. But it seems to take a lot from us to be concerned and to help out others. It is rare for me to be praying for the person sitting beside me just before my exam starts. If God calls us to love, I am quite sure we don’t stop loving when exams come. So the world doesn’t stop or revolved only around us when exams come.

Better Results if you work harder?

As Christians, we want to study for God’s glory. The difficult thing for us to resolve is our understanding of academic faithfulness. I say that the first distinction needs to be clear. We should consider how we study and not our grades when we talk about being a faithful student. But to what point of our studying can we say I have been a faithful student? We all know full well that if we put in effort we will get better results. To put in lesser effort is to sacrifice what could have been our potential. To a certain extent this is true!

There is no easy answer I am afraid (sigh, after writing so much…) But I can share some personal convictions I got from my reflections. I would tell myself that within the time God has given, I would set aside time to study. Even if I know I could study more, I would stop and move on to other things that require my attention. I would pray and believe that God could make 6 days of work more productive than 7 days if He wants to. This principle is not biblical but it reminds me of my limitations and responsibilities and also to keep the rhythm of work and rest.

For the Glory of God or Personal Desires

In our discussion, I realize it is easy to hide our personal desires behind the banner of studying for God’s glory. We think that having good grades would bring God glory and when people see how blessed we are, they would want to know God too. I feel we should be cautious if we subscribe to this way of thinking. Somehow in our pursuit of grades, it is tied to the pursuit for the Singaporean dream of a “successful and good” life that is promised along with achieving good grades.

“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” (Luke 12:14b)

Amos mentioned how sometimes we hear people saying they want to study hard to be a doctor and lawyer and serve God. Then they mug their lives away to make it through. I must say it is a noble thought. But this is like we are telling God what we want and how we want to serve Him. Instead even if we don’t receive good grades despite our faithfulness in studying, we should be ready to say, “Here I am. Put me where You want me.”

Abraham

Every Christian a missionary!

2010-10-25T22:12:00.013+08:00

Hey all!

Just to share something im currently reading: Revolutions in World Missions by KP Yohannan (you can order a free copy on biblegateway.com! they'll really send!) and so far it has been really inspiring. Yohannan, besides having a really cool name, embrace the daunting but exhilarating call to be an evangelist missionary at a young age of 16, and became the founder of Gospel for Asia, a missions organisation responsible for raising and supporting indigenous mission work in all parts of Asia.

I was reading it and becoming convicted to think that how each of us are actually full-time local missionaries. If you think about it, the call of Jesus "to make disciples of all nations" (Matt 28:19) is really for ALL of us Christians and how easily we can forget that call when we become wrapped up with ourselves.

In his book he also expressed horror at the excesses of churches in America (perhaps ours too?), with all the finances and energy and manpower going into "entertaining the saints" in Christian media, lifestyle merchandises, facilities, food catered in "fellowship", while so little is given to mission work, missionaries and their families who usually have almost nothing to eat for days.. That greatly disturbed me. Is our church/ministry like that too..?

Anyway for the less disturbing parts, here are some excerpts, hopefully to inspire us:

1) "The only weapon that will ever effectively win the war against disease, hunger, injustice and poverty in Asia is the Gospel of Jesus Christ."

2) "Christians (at a Christian institute he went to) were overcomers and giants.. who received a vision and refused to let go. Diligence to your calling was a virtue to be highly prized"

3) "God knew the many trials ahead and wanted to teach us to have faith and trust in Him alone - even when I could not see Him. No one.. will follow Jesus very long without tribulation. ..we must learn to accept them joyfully if we are to grow through them "

Perhaps this next line is something we can all challenge ourselves to think about:

4) [A challenge posed to Yohannan] "...write down in one sentence the single most important thing you are going to do with the rest of your life.. It could not be self-centered or worldly.. and it has to bring glory to God."

Well, there are many more to share perhaps i'll leave it for next time, or you can borrow the book from me or order it online. Lastly:

5) "The goal of all mission work: the "perfecting" of saints into sanctified, committed disciples of Christ"

And that's the business we're in, isn't it, friends?

with hope,
cheesiong :)

Hillsong - Where We Belong - With Subtitles/Lyrics

2010-10-22T10:25:00.000+08:00

Letters To God, Friday 7.30pm, AMC

2010-10-21T22:03:00.000+08:00

Inspired by a true story, this is a touching tale of a boy struggling with cancer who found the strength to hope and help others find hope too! This movie was screened just a few months ago is Singapore. i think it looks really good!

Now showing in AMC, Friday 7.30pm! Go catch it, and be inspired! And bring your friends! You'll never know if they would be touched by God through this film too :)

Trinity Session: How Do The Persons of The Trinity Work Together?

2010-10-17T00:37:00.003+08:00

Hi all,

Content from our latest session is available here:

How do the Persons of the Trinity Work Together

Who was involved in Creation?

Youthphoria PRESENTS:

2010-09-16T10:00:00.008+08:00

Hey all, click the above to look at the exciting programmes lined up for us for the upcoming weeks! Lets journey together in worship of God and fellowship with one another at Youthphoria! Come and know God better to deepen our faith and relationship with Him (and with each other as well as we meet)!

Do pray for these programmes and also invite your friends along! (you can print this out or email to them!)

See you there!

2010-09-06T10:22:00.000+08:00

Hey all,

Youthphoria will be taking a break this Saturday! (Awww.....) We will meet on the following Sat, 18 Sep :D

ULTIMATE ROJAK YOUTHPHORIA GAMES DAY!!!

2010-09-02T01:29:00.006+08:00

Hey all!

Need a break from all the studying & schoolwork?

Want to have a great time of fun in the sun?

Youthphoria is proud to present a very exciting ULTIMATE ROJAK YOUTHPHORIA GAMES DAY!!!

YAY!!!!!

Play a mishmash variety of exhilarating, action-packed games designed by our very own youths at the very beautiful Botanical Gardens!

Meet 3.30pm in AMC for free transport!

Please help to invite your friends along! The more the merrier :D :D :D

Audio Xchange Live in Concert @ Youthphoria!

2010-08-23T11:49:00.004+08:00

Hey all :D

Come down to Youthphoria this Saturday, 28 August 2010 for a time of music extravaganza! Catch the band Audio Xchange as they perform live at Youthphoria, doing AMAZING covers of today's hottest pop/rock hits!

Audio Xchange features a team of very talented young musicians from various walks of life, all with a common passion - to use music, fun, and stories from their own personal lives to bring inspiration and encouragement to youths facing challenging moments in life!

Fresh from their tour around schools in Thailand, the cool people at Audio Xchange are reaaally excited to be playing music for us Youthphoria!!!

So come on down and hear their heartbeat behind the music at Youthphoria!

---

PS. The band also features our very own youthphorian Jesse Nicholas Chan!!! So do come and support Jesse and his friends! :) :) :)

Please feel free to invite anyone else along! Admission is free, and ALL ARE WELCOME!

Amazing August (and Super September)!

2010-08-16T20:05:00.023+08:00

Hey YOUTHPHORIA!

This AUGUST (and September) is gonna be AMAZING because of the exciting activities lined up for you and your friends!!! Do prayerfully invite your friends, to come and join us for the weeks ahead in these exciting activities!

ALL ARE WELCOMED! And especially your friends who have yet to come to faith in Jesus, or those looking for a church community to settle and grow in :-)

21 August - GAMES DAY part 1!

Choose from a wide array of fun and exciting BOARD GAMES to play with your friends! ALSO! if board games is not your cup of tea, there will be loads of VIDEO GAMES and consoles to be enjoyed! And speaking of tea.. YUMMY FOOD will be provided :)

28 August - In Concert with AUDIO XCHANGE!

Heard of the band yet? No?!?! Well you should because the band is made up of extremely talented and passionate Christian musicians from all over Singapore, including our very own JESSE NICHOLAS CHAN! Rock out to today's best pop/rock hits! PLUS! You'll hear the heartbeat behind the music too, as members give their inspiring life testimonies!

04 September - GAMES DAY part 2!

Another games day?! Yes!!! Except that this takes place outdoor, so expect an action-packed adrenaline rush from the fun and exciting activities under the sun with all your friends!

**MORE UPDATES SOON**

What's the idea?

Whats the point of all this fun and games, you say? Where is God in the picture?

Well, these activities are for us - YOU and I - to be actively and prayerfully inviting our friends to come join our community of faith here at Youthphoria, to learn and grow together in God in weeks and months to come, even after these activities! :-)

Through games, music and food, Youthphoria can welcome our new friends in enjoyable and exciting ways, and build meaningful relationships, as we demonstrate our hospitality through our warmth, friendliness! Who says evangelism can't happen in a fun way! :D

The harvest is plenty

Remember the words of Jesus, "The harvest is plentiful.." (Matt 9:37) and also, "go and make disciples of all nations.." (Matt 28:18-20) As you look around your classroom/workplace, do you see as Jesus sees? Are there many around you who have yet to know Christ as Lord? Seize this opportunity to reach out to them in God's LOVE <3

Faith of Friends

Also, remember in Mark 2:1-12, the four friends who brought their paralytic friend through the roof to where Jesus was because they could not get through the huge crowd? Remember your friends/family members who brought you to Christ? They had demonstrated RESILIENCE in finding a way to bring their friend to Jesus! As a result, their friend could walk and his sins are forgiven! Lets ask God to give us faith for others to come to know Him :)

God will make a way

Also, note that the friends were only responsible for the bringing, and not the healing and salvation, for all that belong to God. So don't worry if you feel inadequate, pray and do your best, and let God do what He does best - salvation! Sometimes, all you have to do is to invite!

In short, as what teacher Wendy had shared on last Saturday, you are in the best position to lead your friends to Christ if they have not yet known Him! Make use of every opportunity to love and serve those around you!

Let us all do our best in faith, to reach out to our friends around us this week, and the weeks ahead!

Let us use Amazing August (and September) to tell of His amazing grace :)

2010-08-15T02:58:00.001+08:00

Hey all!

Some thoughts bouncing off the post-Youth Sunday debrief today :)

Well i'm sure we all have heard how awesome we all were (the congregation said so!) and how God had ministered to various ppl using the different segment of the programme so i shan't harp on it.

Just wanna say that i think some of us may be feeling that we could have done more of this or that, we could have done this and that better. I could have sang that song better, I could have acted better, the doorgifts could look better, etc..

And no doubt about it.

There is definitely room for improvement, if we truly are humble servants, wanting to give our best to the Lord. But at the same time, we should also trust that "God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong" ( from 1 Cor 1:27), that though our music, our acting, our doorgifts, etc. isn't perfect, God can use us more than the professionals out there to touch the hearts of many! And, we can chose to gripe about our weaknesses, or we can declare, "His grace is sufficient for me, His strength is made perfect in my weaknesses!" (2 Cor 12:9)

What we believe about God reveals the amount of faith we have in Him.

Also! I believe this is not the end yet! Because God is pursuing an active love relationship with you, He is not done after Youth Sunday, no. In fact, see this as part of Him preparing you the greater things that you will be doing. For Jesus said (refering to His miracles), "Anyone who has faith in me will do the things I have been doing, He will do even greater things than these.."

And what God will in your life will be consistent with what He has been doing (Henry Blackaby, in the book Experiencing God).

Could it be possible that you in the worship band now, will be in the future joining a band to minister to a group of students in Thailand who would never have otherwise hear the gospel? Could it be possible that you preparing doorgifts faithfully now would be in a team packing relief items for a crisis-hit town somewhere in Asia in the future? Well, you get the idea.

Think big picture, guys. God is at work in your life, and this is just the beginning of an exciting journey. Continue to pursue relationship with God, and pursue relationships for God.

To God be the glory~

Saturday 14 August 2010

2010-08-13T10:52:00.002+08:00

hey all,

Still on a high after a great Youth Sunday? Do you miss Youthphoria already? Well, fret not, cos Youthphoria is back on tmr, Sat 4-7pm! Come for a great time of worship & fellowship, and hear what Wendy has to say about how you can be ministering to your fellow friends with the love of GOD!

See ya there!

Books for YOU(THS)!!!

2010-08-03T14:11:00.003+08:00

Hey all youths!

Are you interested in your own spiritual growth?

Recently the church library (located at the social hall) has stocked up on an abundant selection of OVER 70 Christian books & study materials just for YOU!!!

These awesome titles are lovingly hand-picked by our dear Teacher Wendy, and our dear brothers Timothy and Junming :D (did i miss anyone out..?), purpose is for us to grow in our spiritual walk with God, through reading and letting God speak through the exciting content into our lives!

PCGLs! Unsure about what materials to do next for your PCGs? There are many materials here suitable for small group study, and you are strongly encouraged to look through these titles prayerfully, and you may just find the one that suits your PCG! :)

Do check it out! The catalog of books can be found here:

Library Catalog

Let us take ownership of our spiritual growth and grab one of these awesome books soon!
:):):)

youth sunday preparation!

2010-07-23T19:00:00.002+08:00

Hey all!

Youth Sunday is just around the corner (08.08.10)! This Saturday, we will be taking time to be preparing for it, and also we will be having a great time of worship, prayer and fellowship as well!

So do come down, your help is absolutely needed! even if you havent signed up for any area of service, you can find out what you are interested in on Saturday, and join in with your friends! it will be a fun thing to do together as a youth ministry :D

Seeya!

2010-07-22T17:33:00.003+08:00

hello all!
(sorry mind my bad english)

you know, during christmas time, there are all those 'carolling sessions' organised for people to go down to old folks homes and sing songs.

take this same concept, and apply it to national day! let's go down and cheer these old folks spirits up with national day songs and dancing ( think : deep down in my heart i just know, right from the start, we will grow ..... or we can just stick to clapping hurhurr) and smiles :) it's just an informal thing, not a youthp initiated thing ahh. i dno whether moe bounded pple can get cip hrs from this (i'll ask the guy)

sooo
it's on the 31st july, sat
9-10am
orange valley at clementi (near clementi mrt)

let me know if you're interested! thanks. tiffany TAN.

ask ard for my number if you dont hv it thanks

Get Real!

2010-07-15T22:08:00.000+08:00

Hey Youthphorians!

Ever felt like you are lost in the darkness of your situation, looking for your way out?

Well, this Saturday, we will hear the amazing testimony of Mr. Peter Lim, our guest speaker, a visually impaired Christian, and learn what it means to be resilient and truly walk by faith!

PLAY! Games Around the World in 180 minutes

2010-07-07T15:09:00.005+08:00

Hey YOUTHPHORIA!

Come down this Saturday for a very exciting GAMES DAY!!! This time we're gonna be playing games from all over the world! Bring friends, form teams, build trust, and have tonnes of fun! Come dressed in sports attire and be ready to PLAY :D

date: saturday, 10 July 2010
time: 4pm-7pm
venue: AMC

See ya there!

YOUTHPHORIA PRESENTS

2010-06-30T15:38:00.007+08:00

5 WEEKS OF FELLOWSHIP TOWARDS YOUTH SUNDAY 2010

INDOOR KUNG FU PANDA MOVIE NIGHT
3 July 2010, Sat
4pm - 7pm
Basement Room 3 & 4

Po's consuming passion is kungfu. But there are a few obstacles standing in the way of his dreams of becoming a kungfu master. His father expects him to take over the family restaurant, he doesn't actually know kungfu and he is a portly, sluggish uncoordinated panda!

What has Kung Fu Panda got to do with being a Kung Fu disciple of Christ? Tonnes! After the indoor movie, chill-lax with the family of youths over drinks and donuts to encourage one another on the faith journey towards becoming a stronger Christian.

Program:

4pm - 4.30pm: Who's the King of the Jungle?
4.30pm - 6.00pm: Kung Fu Panda
6.00pm - 7.00pm: Movie Talkabout

So, here's a shout out to every PCG to come down together. We need to cross-band for the purpose of working towards Youth Sunday 2010. See you there!

Resilient Follower: Caleb - Young Man of a Different Spirit

2010-06-22T22:13:00.002+08:00

Hey YOUTHPHORIANS!!!!

We're back!!!!!

This week, in the season finale of our Resilience series.. we shall look at the example of Caleb - the young man who has often been referred to as having a "different spirit".

Find out what made this young person special and stand out from among his peers, and how does that make him a RESILIENT FOLLOWER of GOD in face of tough times and how we can apply it in our own lives!

Do bring your friends!

And see you there :D

Logo Design Competition Update!

2010-06-13T21:22:00.003+08:00

Hi all!

We have received several submission from some of our youths, so here's a big THANK YOU to those who have contributed or are in the midst of doing so (:

We have also received some feedback that more guidelines would be helpful in simplifying the design process! So here are the revised guidelines:

Your design MUST capture these concepts/elements in any creative ways:
1) God
2) Youthful vibrance
3) Contain the word 'youthphoria' (with or without caps) - it can be incorporated with the main design or it can be placed at any position with the logo.

You may want to consider including the following concepts/elements as well:
1) Life-transforming
2) Love
3) Reaching out
4) Community

PLS NOTE that your logo design must be able to look good in ANY SIZES, ranging from as small as 1cm x 1cm (like on a corner of a piece of paper) or infinitely hugeeee like a giant flag in a World Cup football match!

Also, it should look good in any medium, ranging from the various printed form to a computer screen~

Have fun!

cheesiong

Communications Team

Resilient Follower: Mary - Overcoming Impossibilities

2010-06-10T08:13:00.004+08:00

Hey all!

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by situations that seemed like impossible to overcome?

This Saturday we're going back to the Resilient Follower series as we look the example of Mary, the mother of Jesus, and how she overcame the impossible through her trust in God!

See you there! and do bring your friends to attend, it might help them overcome an impossible situation in their lives :D

Venue: AMC basement room
Date: 12 June
Time: 4-7pm

YOUTHPHORIA LOGO DESIGN COMPETITION!

2010-06-06T16:18:00.008+08:00

Hey all!

Your beloved YOUTHPHORIA needs a LOGO! and we need YOU to help! This logo will be used to represent YOUTHPHORIA in all our events, publicity materials, etc. and we need YOU to help design it!!! So, muster up all your creativity, artistic and designing skills, and your design could Youthphoria's very own logo :D

*UPDATES*
Some guidelines:

-Do base your design on the MPV of YOUTHPHORIA, which is..

"God has called us to be a vibrant community, drawing youths to a life-transforming relationship with Jesus Christ, encouraging youths to live daily as disciples who serve in love, nurturing youths to become Spirit-filled young adults"

Date of submission: 5 June - 26 June
No. of entries: As many as you want!!!
Submit (on paper) to: Chee Siong, Diana, Debbie, Inez, Natalie and Daniel
OR
Submit (via email) to: communications@youthphoria.sg
OR
Post it up on Youthphoria's Facebook Page
You can also team up with your friends to design together!
Have fun!!!!

our facebook event page!

cheesiong:D

PS Winning entry stand to win attractive prizes!

Youthphoria Prayer Retreat!

2010-05-31T21:47:00.004+08:00

Hey all!

Pls note that this Saturday 5th June is a very special Youthphoria Prayer Retreat for ALL youthphorians, including YOU! At a special timing of 1-5pm!

For this retreat, come with a readiness to challenge your preconceived notion of prayer, to know God better, and work towards deepening your intimacy with the Lord. Do bring writing materials/journal and Bible :)

Our God is the One who breathes Stars into being, that the Heavens spell His glory.

Our God is the One who formed our hearts,

He is calling out to us, with arms open wide,

To call us, with all our problems, flaws, imperfections,

To rest in His arms of love.

THINK: The Life of the Mind and the LOVE of God

2010-05-30T01:29:00.002+08:00

SPP Retreat/Theme talks: Knowing the Heart of the Father God

2010-05-27T01:05:00.001+08:00

Hey all!

SPP Retreat starts this Friday for those who are involved, your subcomm heads would have already informed you of what to bring/expect/, etc. If not, do hound them for the info :D

There will be no Youthphoria this Saturday cos of SPP, but fret not, those who are not involved. You are STRONGLY ENCOURAGED to come for the nightly worship & theme talks on Friday and Saturday, 7pm - 9.30pm. The talk is on Knowing the Heart of the Father God and it would be extremely beneficial for all of us. Read on for more info :)

Are you stuffed full of knowledge about God but is struggling to experience His loe for you? Perhaps Christianity seem unrelated where your heart is. What if you could...
1. Have an all-encompassing sense that you have a loving heavenly Dad?
2. Have a sense of being enjoyed and delighted in by Him?
3. Recognise that He sees you differently than you see yourself?
4. Realise that who you are is more important to Him than what you do?
Speakers: Peter & Christina Zheng, Barker Road Methodist Church

Day: 28 May & 29 May
Time: 7pm to 9.30pm
Venue: Aldersgate Methodist Church
Attire: anything comfortable

See you there!!!

letter to Zac

2010-05-25T04:59:00.005+08:00

Hello everyone,

it's been awhile since i've last posted on our blog (: i chanced upon this incredible video about a guy named Zac, who had lost his battle to cancer and has gone home to be with the Lord just one week ago. what he said in his video struck many chords in my heart and he addresses issues that are so real to all of us. i shan't say anymore 'cept to urge you on to watch the video. below are some excerpts of what he said in the video.

with much love,

Minyi

***

"I am specifically talking to you about your relationship with God and your outlook on humanity... the time on earth is so short for humans and for us, it's even shorter.I want to teach you two things in light of this: first, you need to recognize that God has given you many different gifts and talents and abilities. you are able to do much in the way you have been wired up as unique. the Bible in 1 Corinthians 3 says that "we will be judged according to our works one day. if our works were like wood or straw or hay, we are told we will suffer loss; if our works were like gold or silver or precious stones, we will be rewarded." I want to be rewarded and so do you.

you have been given much and it will be tempting as you go off to college to your independence to squander your opportunities. you will be tempted to hide who you are, what you believe, even the fact that you believe in God... we can rest when we get to heaven, now is the time to get to work and put into practice what we believe. I am desperately trying to finish well but if i can teach you anything, it would be to start right now. as you are at 17 years old, seek God and obey Him.

the second thing i wanna teach you is how you can practically put this into play. you must break your heart for the people around you. you must love them. you must be passionate about them.

John the apostle said in his first letter says: "beloved, let us love one another for love is from God and whoever loves, is born of God and knows God. anyone who does not love does not know God because God is love."

the very real tangible way to love God is to show that love to other people. you're going to live in a variety of different cities and states. you're going to travel to some fantastic places around the world and you're going to meet many, many people. keep this at the forefront of your mind: love them and show them the way to Jesus.

you will be faced with many struggles in this life. my encouragement is that you pick the harder path. you will be more like Christ and your character will develop. pick the harder path. you will meet and interact with so many different people. try to learn something from each and everyone of them. it is not an accident that you've met them and desperately try to leave each of them better off than when you first met them."

desperately pursue God and use the gifts He has given you and desperately pursue the people around you and love them."

YOUTH ALPHA WEEKEND THIS SAT - fun and games included :)

2010-05-21T09:48:00.006+08:00

Hi Youthphorians,

As you may have already heard, Youthphoria will be reaching out to students of FMSS this Sat! These are the students who have been attending Youth Alpha, a programme where students come to know more about God, Christianity, etc. We the Body of Christ want to reach out to invite them into our family, should they desire a place to learn, grow, serve, and have fun – JUST LIKE YOU!

So come on down on Sat to FMSS 9am – 3.30pm for the Youth Alpha finale, and AMC 4pm – 6pm for a time of fun and games (and food)! Bring sports attire for games. Don’t worry if you are afraid of how to reach out to others. Just be the Youthphorian you know you are – fun, friendly, and full of love!

See you there!
:D

Yoga: What they don't tell you in yoga classes

2010-05-12T21:11:00.000+08:00

Hey all,

These days, you can see yoga classes sprouting up practically everywhere! In workplaces' sports and wellness programmes, in community centres, gyms and fitness clubs, and even in schools!

While these programmes claims to promote wellness of body mind and spirit, does it really? which aspect of "spirit" does it engage..?

As Christians, it is only wise that we equip ourselves with such knowledge, so that we don't take everything the world throws at us at face value and engage in ungodly activities unknowingly!

So come down to Youthphoria this Saturday, for a talk on this interesting topic, and also for a time of worshipping God and fellowship!

Chinese Rituals vs Christian Beliefs

2010-05-06T15:20:00.003+08:00

Hey Youthphorians!

This week we are looking at the topic of Chinese Rituals vs Christian Beliefs!

Now, some of us may think that this topic is irrelevant because we do not practice them. BUT i'm sure we all can think of friends and relatives, or even family members who have these beliefs and practices.

We learn so that we do not become ignorant Christians. Most young people are not informed and show their ignorance before their non-Christians relatives and friends. This can come across as rude and offending to those whom we are trying to reach. By understanding what these rituals mean, we are

1. more informed when we intercede for the pre-believers.

2. become people helpers to minister/support young Christians (even older ones) caught in tension between piety to family and obedience to Christ (for example, in funeral rituals, what can we do and what we should not do?).

3. expand our worldview on Chinese beliefs and customs and not be ignorant.

4. explaining to pre-believers the reason of our faith and hope when engaged on the subject matter.

So do come down! and bring along your friends who might be interested in these topics as well!

2010-05-03T14:23:00.000+08:00

Enjoy :)
credits to Jesse!

We are sports cars

2010-05-01T09:57:00.004+08:00

Ever wondered where all the time went to when we get to the end of the week? Feeling tired, even though you have already slept and woken up? Here’s the typical breakdown of a teenager one day at school:

Time	Activity	Remarks
6+am – 7.30am	Wake up, Wash up, travel to school	Depends on how near you are to school
7.30am – 11am	School starts; 3 – 3.5 hrs of class	1^st Chunk
11am – 11.30am	Recess / Break	Average 30 mins
11.30am – 2pm	2 – 2.5 hrs of class	2^nd Chunk
2pm – 5pm	Various after-school stuff	Hang out with friends, CCA, do homework / revision, project work discussions, consultations, remedial etc.
5pm – 7pm	Travel home, wash up, dinner	Varies
7pm – 11pm	Various evening stuff	Watch TV, go online, project work stuff, homework, revision, chores, talk to parents etc.
11.30pm – 12 midnight	Wash Up, Sleep	Till next morning

Just one typical weekday; multiply it by five and you kindda get the feeling that this was one week you’ve gone through (for some, have been going through). And mugging / extra classes / tutorials for exams, training for sports CCA competitions, Arts performances / School Speech Days etc haven’t been factored in yet; these throw the timings right out the window. Is it any wonder why we get so shagged out and “sian” by the day’s end?

Bill Hybels, author of “Too Busy Not Too Pray”, likens our life to a car’s engine; or RPMs (revolutions per minute) an engine makes. The higher the RPM, the more powerful and faster a car goes. Normal cars go about 4,000 RPM; racing cars, 10,000 RPM. In our context, school and situation daily trains us to work and perform at 10,000 RPM. Start the day like that, end it like that. No wonder our body and spirit tires out! No car can run like that for very long.

The point: If we don’t slow down, and take some steps and minutes to take stock of our spiritual health, we will fall ill by neglecting it. When God calls, we won’t hear, because the noise of our lives tunes God out. Our 10,000 RPM lives will drown out God’s voice.

Jer 33:3 says “Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.” And 1^st Peter 5:7 “Cast your cares upon the Lord, for he cares for you.” If we will call sincerely to God, take awhile to listen, He will speak to us. But the RPMs have to come down to hear God’s still, small voice.

As Labour Day comes, won’t you take this season as a reminder, to take a step back from labouring, and make an effort to hear what your Father Lord has to say?

‘Be content with what you have, for God has said, “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” So say with confidence, “The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid.”

~ Hebrews 15:5, 6

Warmest Blessings,
-Kenneth

Story of Bottled Water

2010-04-19T12:23:00.001+08:00

Remember story of stuff? here's part 2!

-Ah Ham-

P.S. all the best to uni people for FINAL EXAMS!

FUSiON2010@PLMC 17Apr (this saturday)

2010-04-14T23:24:00.001+08:00

Hey ALL!

Fusion is back this year and it will be held at Paya Lebar Methodist Church! It is an annual event where Methodist youths gather in a night of WORSHIP and INSPIRATION from the Word of God! Key speakers are Rev Dr Wee Boon Hup and Rev Lai Kai Ming.

For those who want to meet up:
time: 6.15pm
date: 17 April, Saturday
place: Serangoon MRT Station

For those going straight:
event starts: 7pm
place: Paya Lebar Methodist Church

You are encouraged to go as YOUTHPHORIA, so do meet up with us! And wear the youthphoria tee if you have :)

*pls take your dinner before meeting

POST CHAPELTHON VOLUNTEER RECRUITMENT

2010-04-14T00:50:00.014+08:00

Hey ALL,

I'm sure you guys had a great time at chapelthon, helping out or just worshiping with the students! Well.. lets keep the flame burning for God's work in Fairfield, remembering that Chapelthon is not just an event but part of a PROCESS. A process of bringing the lost back to God. A process that WE ARE A PART OF! Many of us want to go on mission trip. HERE IS ONE:

To follow-up with their faith decisions, Aldersgate Methodist Church will run our 3rd cycle of Youth Alpha with them. If you are available, would you please facilitate a group of 6-8 students for their Christian growth? (this would apply more for PCGLs or youths ready to lead a group) You can also come as BEFRIENDERS to simply interact and make friends with the students! Here are details for your consideration (Pick the slots where you are available:

Date Event Time Venue
13 Apr, Tue Week of Grace Chapel Outreach 7.30am - 8.15am; 8.15am - 8.45am FMSS
14 Apr, Wed New Facilitators Training 10am - 12pm AMC
20 Apr, Tue Youth Alpha Session #1 7.30am - 8.15am; 8.15am - 8.45am FMSS
23 Apr, Fri Youth Alpha Session #2 1.30pm - 2.30pm FMSS
28 Apr, Wed Youth Alpha Session #3 1.30pm - 2.30pm FMSS
30 Apr, Fri Youth Alpha Session #4 1.30pm - 2.30pm FMSS
14 May, Fri Youth Alpha Session #5 1.30pm - 2.30pm FMSS
19 May, Wed Youth Alpha Session #6 1.30pm - 2.30pm FMSS
21 May, Fri Youth Alpha Session #7 1.30pm - 2.30pm FMSS
22 May, Sat Youth Alpha Weekend 9am - 5pm FMSS

Do contact Wendy if interested!
wendychiang@aldersgate.org.sg

Why us? I can think of 6 reasons..
1.We have a unique access to the school, given our affiliation with FMSS.
2.The age group of Youthphorians are also the age group which Fairsians belong to!
3. Many of our delightful Youthphorians, church members are/were also Fairsians and were changed by God's love in Fairfield!
4. The last Youth Alpha at Fairfield brought IRWIN into Youthphoria :D:D:D
5. We all love Youthphoria, don't we? For the fun and loving community that is devoted to growing in God with each other. Shouldn't we share this blessing with others as well?
6. God is working in FMS and He invites us to join Him! Recall Matt 28:18-20, Acts 1:8, Hab 2:14

Now you may be thinking, I'm BUSY and I've got EXAMS to study for! But! i think God desire OBEDIENCE more than ABUNDANCE:) we may not have an ABUNDANCE of time but if we have OBEDIENCE, God is GLORIFIED and is well pleased!

Recall GOD's ECONOMICS - the widow whom Jesus praised, who gave TWO COPPER COINS out of her poverty, compared to the rich who gave out of their abundance in Luke 21:1-4 or the widow who fed Elijah, herself, as well as her own son with a "handful of flour"and "a little oil" for 2 years in 1 Kings 17:8-16; or the 5 loaves and 2 fishes which fed 5000 plus people in Matt 14:13-21 God MULTIPLIES. When you give in OBEDIENCE, HE GIVES MORE :)

imagine, if just for ONE hour we sacrifice, someone comes to Jesus, maybe not immediately but eventually, isn't that an hour well spent?

God bless,
cheesiong

story behind chapelthon. testimony of God's grace..

2010-04-14T00:19:00.001+08:00

You may know that Chapelthon 2010 was held last Friday @ Chen Su Lan Hall, FMS(S). Close to 500 fairsians gathered for a meaningful time of Praise and Worship..We saw God's hand in it all and it was very evident that he was in it all! Here's how:

1) Theme of Chapelthon came when we had our first meeting, when we decided to pray for 5min and listen to what God has to impress upon us. When we went around to share, all of us had the same theme, and some even had the same song in their head! Heart of Worship! Unite and Arise was thus coined.

2) Last Thur when i was just talking to a Sec4 BB Boy that we might not have enough dinner.. His mother so happens to SMS me saying.. understand you guys catered 200pax for chapelthon w Aunty J. ..not enough..i'll bring 120 sausage buns! And she doesnt know me at all! and the Boy just exclaims..my mum doesnt tell me what she does!

3) On that note.. how come they suddenly want to bring food? Aunty A said to Aunty B.. im thinking Sausage buns..dont know why.. Aunty B said to A, hah? I was just thinking abt that too! I heard they got Aunty J. to cater 200 pax only.. lets just bless them tomorrow.. PRAISE GOD!

4) Did u see the crazy downpour on Fri aftn? Well.. I prayed a silent plea for the rain to stop so that ppl could come for Chapelthon..and indeed it stopped just before the crowd started to stream in!

5) How abt this.. 2 months before Chapelthon.. We asked the FMS(S) BB..would u wanna be involved in Chapelthon?

FMS(S) BB says.. O, God impressed upon me a few months back that BB MUST be involved this year! PRAISE GOD! look at the amazing CHAIR-PEARL-TON video, the chairs arrangement, the HUGE NUMBER OF CURRENT STUDENTS! BB got their classmates down!

6) What abt the beautiful buttons? Well, my team sent out requests for quotes..and the first replied.. "O, Hi ____, long time no see.. I'm ______, your fairfield council department head in 2005." WOW..that blew our minds away.. We got an amazing quote then!

7) What abt the lack of equipment..the headache of sourcing for stuff? Uncle Mark Mas to the rescue! Joel: Can we ... Mark: OK Joel: Is it possible.. Mark: Can short but sweet. that was all we needed.

8) on to testimonies.. some ex-fairsian told me that the sharing by Mr Chan tugged her heartstrings.. another from the alumni association comm said that she felt God's sweet presence at the 2nd band.. i felt overwhelmed when Hosea's band sang "I extol you.."

Its good that there was constant reminders too that its not only an event..but a process.. and tks Wendy for reaffirming that to close it fittingly.. Saw many fb status that encouraged me alot.. of how God is moving in Fairfield..

Im sure there's more of God's testimonies, we'll share it on this note as we meet up for our debrief and evaluation. Indeed, when God moves, we can only stand in awe. That was what happened at Chapelthon 2010.

Joel Tan

Date	Event	Time	Venue
13 Apr, Tue	Week of Grace Chapel Outreach	7.30am - 8.15am; 8.15am - 8.45am	FMSS
14 Apr, Wed	New Facilitators Training	10am - 12pm	AMC
20 Apr, Tue	Youth Alpha Session #1	7.30am - 8.15am; 8.15am - 8.45am	FMSS
23 Apr, Fri	Youth Alpha Session #2	1.30pm - 2.30pm	FMSS
28 Apr, Wed	Youth Alpha Session #3	1.30pm - 2.30pm	FMSS
30 Apr, Fri	Youth Alpha Session #4	1.30pm - 2.30pm	FMSS
14 May, Fri	Youth Alpha Session #5	1.30pm - 2.30pm	FMSS
19 May, Wed	Youth Alpha Session #6	1.30pm - 2.30pm	FMSS
21 May, Fri	Youth Alpha Session #7	1.30pm - 2.30pm	FMSS
22 May, Sat	Youth Alpha Weekend	9am - 5pm	FMSS