Mission Possible
Discovery Weekend
in Ohio

The weekend had the theme Mission Possible, focusing on identifying and pursuing our God-given mission in Christ’s service. The weekend progressed through a series of four worship celebrations followed by small group gatherings for discussion and prayer led by young adult counselors. Recreational activities included a dance on Friday night and either skiing and tubing at a ski resort or movies and games on Saturday night.

At the opening service Friday night, Jason Franz, a college-age young adult counselor and praise team member, brought a message from the book of Habakkuk to help participants understand the nature of a Christian’s mission in the world.

Saturday morning, 19-year-old counselor Evan Centers shared the example of Elijah the prophet as he challenged the audience to be attentive to the gentle whisper of God urging us to discover our part in Christ’s mission.

Saturday evening Pastor Jim Valekis encouraged participants to connect deeply with God, seeking his wisdom in finding and pursuing one’s mission. He was followed by 19-year-old counselor Tina White, who gave a presentation on identifying one’s spiritual gifts—the abilities God gives us to pursue the mission.

In the final worship service Sunday morning, Ted Johnston, district superintendent, reminded the audience that the mission is defined by the Great Commission, and each follower of Jesus has a part to play in its fulfillment.

He then presented the plan and the power of the gospel for salvation and invited all who had not yet put their trust in Jesus as Lord and Savior to do so. Nearly 20 responded to this invitation and were invited to the rear of the hall to spend time in prayer with evangelism counselors who awaited them.

During this time of prayer, Mr. Johnston challenged those who were already believers to more actively follow Jesus into the fullness of his mission for their lives. That mission is not impossible—for with God, all things he has planned for us are possible.

With this challenge the audience was invited to the Lord’s Table for communion. With tears of joy new believers were welcomed and all came to a deeper appreciation of what Jesus has done and is doing.

In a candle-lighting ceremony after communion, the audience was invited to commit themselves to bearing the Light of Life, Jesus, into a sin-darkened world. Indeed, that is the mission.

The weekend included several dramatic skits and powerful testimonies. Musical presentations included the worship leading of the CrossRoads Praise Team from Dayton, Ohio, that includes several youths as members.

Jessica Loter reported on the weekend and quoted Evan Center: "It shocks me that in 72 hours people can hear so much, see so much, taste, touch and feel so much because God works in his time. God showed me my mission, and now I prepare as I accept. Thank you Jesus!"

She also quoted Annie Bria, who said: "This weekend not only reunited me with old friends, but it also reunited me with Jesus and reminded me that it does not matter where you are or how cold it is, he is always there and always worthy of praise."

Jill Holmes, a counselor, added: "Christ’s fire is burning in our church all across this nation!"

The Dayton and Tipp City, Ohio, congregations were hosts. David Gould, a young adult from that area, was event director. A similar event is planned for President’s Day weekend in February 2002, and many in the group will help conduct the five-day long youth events at Summer Festival 2001 in Athens, Ohio, Aug. 15 to 19. Ted Johnston.