Christian Youth Leaders in Schools

The theme of unity was extensively explored in this track. To begin the day, statements and questions on topical issues were announced and the delegates could decide whether they agreed, disagreed or were 'draadsitters' who did not really have an opinion on the topics. Questions such as "Do condoms prevent AIDS?", alongside statements such as "Black people cannot be racist", explored the issues of racism, sexism and denominational stereotyping. This allowed space for debate and the questioning of beliefs relating to cultures and backgrounds. During small group discussions many delegates asked why it took so long for the youth of all these denominations and church groups to come together and discuss these issues which are shaping ther future.

Games and activities were conducted with trust and consideration for others in mind. This created an enjoyable atmosphere where delegates interacted in ways through which they could identify with one another.

The focal point of this eventful day was the march of the youth track to the church leader's track. The youth want to be recognised for their role in the church and in the role thay play in their wider communities. They want to be more involved in the life of the church and to be allowed to make mistakes. In the spirit of the 1976 Soweto student march, today's march highlighted the need for unity between the church and its youth. The first steps were taken to unite them in Christ. Today, lessons such as listening first and then responding were learned. The challenge was to think deeply, understand and be understood. Both groups committed themselves to the passing of the baton of responsibility so that fundamental decisions can be made for real change to occur. The challenge was 'Being Real Christians in the Real South Africa'.

Sheenagh Bruce

Wednesday's sessions allowed ample time for delegates to express their hopes for their various spheres of leadership. Debate was rampant around the subjects of HIV/AIDS, family crisis, sexual violence and racism. Guest speakers specialising in each topic gave delegates their professional opinions. "These are all God-issues. We have to start with God's Word," said Revd Royden. After all, life does not have a formula but God has a formula for life.

Small group discussions focussed on the visions of the delegates for themselves, and the the implementation of these visions in their leadership teams - the latter with Jeremiah 29:11-15 in mind. Questions such as: What is your vision for your life and work? What is God's vision for your life and work? Are those visions the same? If not, why not? These challenging questions opened the floor for the delegates to express their views. When the focus is on God, His vision can be implemented.

Dr Eva Ngwenya-Seobi gave a passionate address on child rape and expressed how perseverence and prayer can over come this crime. She encouraged the delegates to "speak for those who cannot speak for themselves" and to take control of their situations. Delegates used the mediums of paint, clay, literature and dance to explore their hopes for themselves, helping to find themselves in God through self-expression. A bird moulded from clay - representing peace, images depicting how life could be, lyrics and poetry expressing various world views, were but a few of the items created.

The creative way in which the delegates have expressed their hopes, show the wealth of opportunity and resources we have in our young people.

Sheenagh Bruce

The Youth Leaders in Schools track team presented a powerful introduction to the seven giants highlighted by SACLA II. This gave the delegates a taste of what would be covered for the rest of the week. A well planned programme with audio and visual components created a relaxed, student-friendly environment, and allowed interaction between the team leaders and the delegates. The youth in the track could openly share their views and ideas on topical issues facing young people. Dance and drama sequences performed by the Fox Fire Youth Team and the Youth For Christ Team were well accepted by their audience.

Team leaders proposed different questions, such as "If you were a part of these giants, how would you like people to treat you?" This placed delegates in the heart of various situations to which they reacted and later had time to reflect. A Johannesburg-based youth pastor commented, "when one part of the body is unable to function properly, the whole body suffers. This makes it our responsibility to take action." The theme of repentance was presented with a strong emphasis on prayer. Delegates were encouraged to pray with those around them and to listen to what God had to say to them regarding the issues discussed. After all, the Lord has said, "whenever one are more are gathered in my name, I am there with them."

Sheenagh Bruce

“We want to welcome people into our hearts”, said Jeremy Clampett, track leader of the Christian Youth Leaders in Schools. It is the hope of the team behind this track, who are leaders of various youth organizations, to prompt the delegates on a path of self-discovery and a broader awareness of the country in which they live.
The team has formulated a programme, which has fellowship and a sense of community in mind. This programme hopes to encourage delegates to engage into group discussions with their peers. These discussions hope to leave the delegates with a better understanding of tough issues and diverse perspectives.