Article | - 1:53 pm
Although the 2023 YPG BFA 3-Day Conference May Have Ended, the Memories Will Last a Lifetime.
Youths nationwide traveled to Brooklyn, NY, to participate in YPG’s BFA 3 Day Conference. This much-anticipated event is held only twice a year, and this year, it was held from Friday, September 15th, 2023, through Sunday, September 17th, 2023. The YPG’s BFA goal was to encourage youths to grow closer in their relationship with God and understand God’s will and calling for them.
During the night vigil, Bishop Bira Joshua (Head responsible for the work of The Universal Church in the USA – English) addressed how the world and its lustful desires are passing away. Bishop warned the youths to take precautions on who they hang around because bad company corrupts good character. He explained that the youths who obey and follow God’s will will never stray away from the path of Salvation.
“And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever.” (1 John 2:17)
The youths present could better understand the message through a video of inmates stating their stories about getting incarcerated. Many inmates in the video message explained that if given a second opportunity, they would return to their youthful years and dedicate it to the Lord. At the end of the video message, the inmates gave their advice to the viewers, expressing the importance of not being around negative influences and following good advice.
Songs of worship and praise filled the Church as The Universal Church’s Choir performed multiple songs that left the youths up on their feet and dancing. Singing and joy were all that could be heard in Brooklyn, NY!
The YPG Night Vigil had NY Police Officers present. They stood on the altar as Bishop Bira Joshua and the youths made a special prayer blessing the NYPD.
Most importantly, the youths left the night vigil spiritually strengthened after seeking The Holy Spirit. It was a night of great power and most certainly an unforgettable one!
The Red Hook Recreational Center gymnasium was packed with youths chanting and screaming as they supported their region’s basketball team. Each basketball game got increasingly intense as teams were being eliminated and the finals were approaching.
Many performers took the stage to dance and showcase their talents during the halftime show. It certainly left the youths in awe and happy to be part of this spectacular event.
Nadine Della Pelle from ULFN’s The A.M Show made a special appearance in the Go Big or Go Home Concert and Basketball Tournament! The crowd cheered and supported her in her amazing 3-point shot!
Gift cards and movie theater tickets were also given to the youths who participated in the various games played during the event.
Yet the most impactful moment of the event was the message Bishop Bira Joshua gave to all present. He restated the importance of not following the flow and to follow God’s word instead.
Bishop Bira Joshua allowed Amreil, a youth from YPG Texas, to share her testimony. Amreil, at a young age, became involved with the wrong crowd, which led her to a path of being in and out of prison. She received spiritual support through the extraordinary work The Universal Church offers in prison, UBB (Universal Beyond Bars). Amreil is now happy to be part of the Youth Power Group (YPG) and expresses the importance of not following the flow.
The end of the BFA 3 Day Conference was near, but certainly, it couldn’t have ended without the Spiritual Graduation Ceremony. The youths wore their cap and gowns not to receive a diploma but, more importantly, a message of faith.
“You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last—and so that whatever you ask in my name the Father will give you.” (John 15:16)
Each youth present has a calling from God to pass on to others what they received. But we must start with our home. Bishop Bira said we must value the things that the Holy Spirit has given to us. Especially our family because one day they will not be here on Earth. Our time with them now should be precious and not despised. They should not be ignored or set aside.
During the main service at 10 AM, the youths received prayers from the congregation. Indeed, everyone left fully ready to move on to the next level in their relationship with God.
Although The 2023 YPG BFA 3-Day Conference may have ended, the memories will last a lifetime. Youths from various states participated and enjoyed themselves in the presence of the Lord.
One youth who participated shared her experience. She said, “The whole experience of BFA was amazing. This was one of my favorite ones; I have been to almost all of them. I was given a choice, and I’m glad I chose to follow God and do his will. Never been happier in my life.”
If you missed this great BFA 3-Day Conference, prepare for the next one in 2024. Join the nearest Youth Power Group (YPG). For more information on branch locations, call 1-888-332-4141.
