On July 26 & 27, 2024, with the support of Sr. Pastor Dr. Wesley Pinnock, True Light Fellowship Church’s Youth Ministry hosted its “Be the Influencer” Youth Conference. The event, which drew a strong turnout of youth and their families, featured a well-rounded program designed to both educate and empower participants.
The conference launched with a welcoming reception at 5:30 pm on Friday, followed by an inspiring worship service led by guest pastor Tim Baldwin of Bethel Deliverance Church Northeast. Bethel’s dynamic praise and worship team set a high-energy tone with performances of popular songs, including Maverick City’s “I Thank God” and Elevation Worship’s “I Trust in God.” Youth leaders from TLFC, including AJ Davy (12th grader), DeMya Roye (10th grader), Chase White (10th grader), Tatiana Davis (college sophomore), and recent high school graduate Tyra Baker as emcee, contributed by offering welcome addresses, prayers, introductions, and scripture readings.
The evening highlight was Pastor Tim’s compelling sermon, which addressed the real struggles faced by today’s teens. Using a powerful demonstration, Pastor Tim illustrated the challenges of maintaining Christian values in a culture that often pulls in the opposite direction. Pastor Tim’s message was direct and to the point, highlighting issues such as premarital sex, substance abuse, and pornography among Christian teens. He urged parents to monitor their children’s digital activities and emphasized the importance of staying true to one’s faith amidst these pressures. The evening concluded with a heartfelt prayer for each young attendee, affirming their commitment to their convictions.
The following day was dedicated to education and empowerment, featuring seminars and a panel discussion designed for all age groups- from as young as five to adults. Seminars led by TLFC members, including Dr. Sherri Webb Humphries, Dr. Akili DeBrady, and wife Kia, covered topics such as positive influence, avoiding peer pressure, and surrounding oneself with wise company.
A notable panel discussion tackled pressing issues ranging from gun violence to social media impacts on mental health and more. Panelists included Detective Tyrone Green from the Philadelphia Police Department, NAMI’s Ashley Murray, Teira Jeffcoat (social worker), and several youth representatives. The discussion, moderated by Sherri Johnson of Supreme Gospel Entertainment, emphasized the importance of authenticity and mutual respect between youth and law enforcement, as well as having integrity and not following the crowd but standing out from the crowd. The panelists shared personal stories of how they were positively and negatively influenced over the years and solutions to ensure that youth remain on a path that is full of potential and hope.
The conference culminated in a concert featuring performances by Bethel Deliverance International Church, The Jesus Movement, Beloved St. John Evangelistic Church, Generation Uprising, and various local talents, including praise dancers Yolanda Wilson and Kiela Brewer, TLFC’s youth praise team (led by Pastor Morris Scott), David Scott, and rapper Scenario. The emcee for the concert was musician David Caldwell, who connected very well with teens, and his wife Trina gave a stirring call to action, encouraging youth to speak, walk, talk, and dress as kingdom citizens. The scenario closed out with a motivational piece entitled “Choose Life,” which resonated deeply with the audience.
True Light Fellowship Church’s youth ministry orchestrated an event full of inspiration and learning, setting a high standard for future conferences. For more information about TLFC, visit truelightfellowship.org or join their Sunday service at 9:30 am at 6400 Ardleigh Street, Philadelphia, PA 19119. Connect with them on social media: Facebook at Supreme Gospel Ent. and Sherri Y. Johnson, and Instagram/TikTok @sherrisupremegospel. Until the next update, stay encouraged!
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