ambassador staff training

Midlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

March 1 2019

Mtendere mission district, Woodlands Zambia ConferenceLeadership training in Ambassador Ministry Email:eddiengand u@gmail.com

cell:0955/0976-417774

Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH woodlands Zambia Conference Mtendere mission district Ambassadors Staff Training Course Checklist Current Certification Requirements Ambassador staff training course. This certification is not intended to teach the basics of what ambassadors learn, but rather those elements of information necessary for any Ambassador staff member or leader to fulfil his duties. The AST course is also an option for the club ministry training of senior youth leader and such participants may have a background in ambassador training course but it is entirely likely to be a participating member not as a leader Prerequisites 1.

Be at least 16 year-old

Work Required

2.

Be a Christian who loves Jesus and willing to share this in

Create a portfolio that contains handouts and your personal notes and

3.

both word and deed

anything that gives proof that you attended the seminars

Intend to be active adventurer staff member or be

Reviewing Ambassador Official Use Only

participating in master guide training

I have completed a review of the participant’s portfolio and the basic staff training check list and have found him/her to have completed the requirements for this certification

Name _____________________________________________ Address ___________________________________________

Training completion date_________________________

Church ____________________________________________

Name________________________________________

Contact____________________________________________

Email_________________________________________

Training initiation date________________________________ Seminars

District/Church__________________________________

1.History, philosophy, and purpose of the ambassadors club

Contact________________________________________

Date_________instructor_______________________sign________

Signature______________________________________

2.Uniform

Field Review Instructions

Date_________instructor_______________________sign________

In the event of a failed review, the reviewing senior youth leader should

3.Understanding the ambassadors

return the portfolio to the participant along with a written note

Date_________instructor______________________sign_________

explaining what additional work or documentation must be completed to

4.Club leadership

receive a pass.

Date________instructor_______________________sign_________

Reviewing Master Guide Disclaimer

5.Organisation

Completion of this training curriculum does not guarantee the bearers

Date_________instructor______________________sign_________

overall qualification to lead nor does it give a guarantee ability, aptitude

6.Club programming

or placement. It simply marks completion of training curriculum

Date_________instructor______________________sign_________ 7.Ambassador modules Date_________instructor______________________sign_________ 8. introduction to syl and icor values Date__________instructor_____________________sign__________

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

1.History, philosophy, and purpose of the ambassadors club HISTORY OF ADVENTIST YOUTH MINISTRIES  • • •

The first youth organization in the local Seventh-day Adventist church began in 1879 when two young boys, Harry Fenner, (16 years) and Luther Warren, (14 years) 1901 the General Conference officially voted into existence the young people’s organization, under the Sabbath school department. 1907 General Conference Council approved the formation of a Youth Department within the General Conference where elder M. E. Kern was elected the first GC Youth Director. 1907- name finally agreed upon was “Seventh-day Adventist Young People’s Department of Missionary Volunteers.”

History of the JMV Classes - AY/AJY classwork st

• • • • • • • • •

1947 1 North American Division youth congress- San Francisco, E. W. Dunbar as world youth director, 1969 the first World Youth Congress was held in Zurich, Switzerland, Theodore Lucas as world youth director. The Character Classics Reading Plan (later changed to Encounter) was adopted in 1946. 1946- John Hancock organized the first conference-sponsored Pathfinder Club in Southeastern California Conference at Riverside, California. 1950 General Conference adopted the Pathfinder Club organization. 1922 -General Conference session- introduced the work of the Junior Missionary Volunteer Society - “progressive classwork.” 1927 - General Conference Autumn Council, enlarged the Progressive Classwork to include three classes, Friend, Companion and Comrade, for junior youth and one class for senior youth and adults 1928 - MV Honors and the Master Comrade Class—developed for senior youth and adults “who desired to prepare for junior leadership.” The first Master Comrade (later called Master Guide) was invested in 1931.

NAME CHANGES FOR THE DEPARTMENT OF ADVENTIST YOUTH MINISTRIES • • • •

1907 as “Seventh-day Adventist Young People’s Department” (known as MV – Missionary Volunteers), changed to “Youth Department of Missionary Volunteers” in 1972. 1978 the department name changed to “Adventist Youth” commonly known as AY department 2005 General Conference Session voted the name, “Youth Ministries Department” which encompassed all the three age levels of youth ministry (e. g. Adventure Club, Pathfinder Club, and Senior (Young Adult) Youth Society. 2015 General Conference session further adopted a name change to “Adventist Youth Ministries” (AYM).

PHILOSOPHY AND MISSION OF ADVENTIST YOUTH MINISTRIES (AYM) • •

The basic philosophy of AYM is securely grounded in the Biblical revelation of who Jesus Christ Not only did Jesus show the Father’s immense love for humanity through “servant leadership” (Jn. 13:1-17), but He also showed them how to receive power to overcome sin in this world through the power of the Holy Spirit. Jesus showed His disciples how to live a life in the Spirit and become disciples of the Kingdom of God in a sinful world. • It is Jesus who is our model of “incarnational ministry” (e. g. allowing the character of Jesus and the power of Holy Spirit to be revealed in the life of our young people, thus becoming true disciples of His in this generation The youth are the objects of Satan’s special attacks; but kindness, courtesy, and the sympathy which flows from a heart filled with love to Jesus, will gain their confidence, and save them from many a snare of the enemy . . . There must be more study given to the problem of how to deal with the youth, more earnest prayer for the wisdom that is needed in dealing with minds . . . We should seek to enter into the feelings of the youth, sympathizing with them in their joys and sorrows, their conflicts and victories . . . We must meet them where they are if we would keep them . . . let us remember the claim of God upon us to make the path to heaven bright and attractive. (Ellen White, Gospel Workers (Washington, D. C.: Review & Herald, 1948), 207-212, emphasis added.) In 1907, at the General Conference Council at Gland, Switzerland, M. E. Kern, the first elected youth director for the department, set out the following objectives To raise the level of the devotional life of the young person To lift up the standard of attainment of the youth

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

To educate and train youth for service To provide opportunities for outreach and service To teach the principles of stewardship To lead youth to discover their individual worth and develop and discover their spiritual gifts (GC Pastor’s and Elder’s Handbook for Youth Ministry, 2002:13)

2. ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

Structure of Adventist Youth Ministries (AYM) Junior Youth Ministries (JYM): Ages: 04-15 includes: Adventurer Ministry (ages 04-09) Strengthens parent-child relationships by providing weekly activities tuned into the psychological needs of this age group and also giving parents opportunities for learning parenting skills and enjoying special activities with their children. Pathfinder Ministry (PF) (ages 10-15) Assists in the critical years of identity formation and adolescent transformation for boys and girls. Offering intentional activities of service and mission, Pathfinders guides the energy of young people to focus on their community. Senior Youth Ministries (SYM): Ages: 16-30+ includes: Ambassador Ministry (ages 16-21) Designed to strengthen the current senior youth ministry of the church. It challenges them to experience and share a personal relationship with Jesus; helps them develop a lifestyle that is consistent with their belief system; provides training in diverse vocational interests; and provides them with a safe environment for the wholesome development of lifelong friendships. Young Adult Ministry (ages 22-30+) Engages the vitality of a generation sharing their living relationship with Jesus in work and life, recognizing the diverse demographic from those in education

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or work, married or single, and possibly parents. This critical ministry embraces empowering young adults for leadership, mentoring, evangelism, and healthy lives.

Our colors represent our mission. We’re bold, bright, and confident. Blue represents Heaven. Blue is the color of the sky and a reminder of the heavenly realm Scarlet in the Bible represents blood and redemption. The life of man is in the blood (Leviticus 17:11) and Christ’s blood atonement is necessary for the redemption of man. Green represents growing and blooming where one is planted. It is representative of a Christian life that produces good fruit and finds rest in Christ. White represents righteousness because of its purity of color and light. It points to the Righteous One and the righteousness He imputes to all who come to Him in faith Red reminds us of Christ and His sacrifice. "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). "Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God" (Rom. 12: 1). Three sides represent completeness of the Trinity -- Father, Son, Holy Spirit. •Tripod of education: Mental Crafts and Honors, Physical Campouts, work bee, health focus Spiritual Outreach and personal spiritual development. Gold represents excellence "I counsel thee to buy of me gold tried in the fire, that thou mayest be rich" (Rev. 3:18). The Pathfinder Club has high standards to help build strong character for the kingdom of heaven. Shield represents protection. In the Scripture God is often called the shield of His people. (Protection) "Fear not... I am thy shield" (Gen. 15:1) "Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." (Eph. 6:16) White represents purity. "He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment" (Rev. 3:5). We desire to have the purity and righteousness of Christ's life in our lives. Blue represents loyalty. It is the purpose of the Pathfinder Club to help teach us to be loyal to: Our God in heaven. Our parents. Our church. Loyalty is defined as a reflection of the character of our True Master Guide. Sword represents the Bible. The sword is used in warfare. A battle is always won by offense. We are in a battle against sin, and our weapon is the Word of God. The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God. (see Eph. 6:17) Inverted Triangle represents the order of importance Jesus taught which is contrary to that taught by the world. Sacrificing of one's self by placing the needs of others ahead of our own.

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The cross in the logo points to the fact that Jesus’ sacrifice is the center of a relationship with Him. The cross on the earth is symbolic of His sacrifice, giving us hope of a new and better life both here on earth through the concept of servant leadership and through an earth made new at His return. The open book is the Word of God, the foundation for our faith, knowledge, and lifestyle. It is open because it’s a message for us to internalize as our constant guide and companion. It is also for sharing with all who will freely receive it. The graded colors of yellow to orange represent the dawn of eternal life that follows the darkness of our temporal experience on this sinful earth.

The gospel of Jesus represented by the cross is at the center of Young Adult Ministry. Colossians 1:17. The three angels’ message of Revelation 14:6-12, represents an urgent plea to the world. A message to be carried by the Young adults to all the world in their generation. The half globe represents the world field that should receive the three angels’ message. The message is for every tongue, nation, and kindred. NO discrimination.

Blue represents loyalty. It is the purpose of the Young Adult Ministry to teach loyalty to God, the mission and the church. Loyalty is defined as a reflection of the character of Jesus. Yellow is the color of sunshine. It’s associated with joy, happiness, intellect, courage and energy.

The Ideals of the Adventist Youth Ministry Aim “The Advent message to all the world in my generation.” Mission “To lead young people in a saving relationship with Jesus and help them embrace his call to discipleship.” Motto “The love of Christ compels me.” Pledge “Loving the Lord Jesus, I promise to take an active part in the work of the Adventist Youth Ministries, doing what I can to help others and to finish the work of the gospel in all the world Introduction At the 2001 World Youth Leadership Convention, division youth leaders noted that in many parts of the world young people who complete the Pathfinder requirements or who are of that age group are left without a program that meets their needs. They do not necessarily want to leave the Pathfinder club, but at the same time they do not feel old enough to associate themselves with young adults (approximately aged 22–30+). An action was taken at the 2001 convention charging the General Conference Youth Ministries Department to develop materials for a new level of youth ministry to meet the need of the youth aged 16–21. For the purpose of differentiating this age group, the name Ambassador was chosen. The Ambassador Ministry is not intended to replace the Senior Youth Ministry, formerly known as Adventist Youth Society (AYS), the umbrella organizational level of ministry for all youth aged 16–30+. The Ambassador level provides focused ministry for the 16-21 age group; it proposes a structured and organized way for them to become actively involved in their church, both locally and globally. This Ambassador manual introduces the first steps for preparing you to lead this “late adolescent” age group.

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

3. UNDERSTANDING THE AMBASSADOR AGE GROUP The teen phase of development is unique to human beings. Only the human species has a distinct age group that goes through several years of transition from childhood to adulthood. In terms of human developmental stages, we are talking about the upper teens to about age 21, a stage known as “late adolescence.” There is no such thing as a typical teenager. Teens are as varied as the rest of the population. Each teen you meet is an individual with a personality and distinct preferences. Not all teenagers like technology or computers. Not all of them are obsessed with the opposite gender. Not all teens are possessed by rebellious thoughts and inclinations. They do have characteristics in common, but each one is a unique person. “Late adolescents” are in the discovery phase of life. They want to differentiate themselves from others and they want to be allowed to question things they don’t understand. Some teens have a great desire to know God and follow Him, while others are brought into the church environment and don’t really want to be there. Some are not sure whether to bother with God and religion. Others have developed interests unrelated to God that occupy their minds already. Individuals in this age group want to know authentic, trustworthy people. They want to hear their name spoken. They want to be smiled at even when they don’t feel like smiling back. They especially want to feel that the adults in their lives think they are important and worth something. The teenager thrives in an atmosphere of freedom to explore and grow within limits defined by caring and knowledgeable adults. This is your calling as a teen ministry leader: to grow healthy, God-knowing teens. Prepare Yourself The upper teen age group needs someone to lead, casting the way forward. They do not want or need someone to dictate, herd, lambaste, nitpick, or lecture. What teens need from you as their leader is someone who knows where they are going (to the Kingdom), genuinely lives the gospel, offers care and friendliness, listens without judging, is well prepared for meetings and events, knows Bible answers when called on, keeps Jesus in view at all times, has patience and a sense of humor about life, and can get the right help from elsewhere when it’s needed. No one is born with all of these gifts and skills. Most of them are learned. Possibly there will be a set of teenagers that you lean on. If you know the principles of this ministry beforehand, you will learn quickly. The young people will teach you. What you’ll end up learning is how to be a strong presence without pushing. You will know your objectives and minister by them, and you’ll come to feel confident in God’s guidance of your ministry to Ambassadors. THE BASICS OF THE AMBASSADOR MINISTRY This Youth Department resource is based on seven foundations that are considered as essential to meet the developmental needs of our young people between the ages of 16-21. They include:

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.

A Christ-centered discipleship plan Leadership development A personal, public, and small group based mission lifestyle Character and personality development, including outdoor, high adventure programming Lifestyle and vocational training Nurturing godly relationships Community outreach development through service projects and emergency preparedness training

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

Each of these seven foundations will be presented in modules, with participants gaining certification for each module completed. While each module has a specific focus, there are FOUR elements that will be common throughout the curriculum. Leaders MUST ensure that all these elements are embraced to make the experience meaningful, attractive, and challenging. First, the concept of a spiritual companion. At the beginning of each module, each participant will choose a friend who will be their companion for the duration of the module. They will meet during each session to encourage and support each other in their role and growth as an Ambassador. Groups of spiritual companions will also come together for specific activities. This builds the concept of interdependence and accountability into the Ambassador experience. Second, an Individual Discipleship Plan (IDP). At the beginning of every module, each participant will make a simple plan of how they would like to grow spiritually and acquire practical competency in the area of the upcoming module. Their spiritual companion will be there throughout the module to help and encourage them to accomplish their plan. The IDP helps to emphasize the continuing nature of discipleship and that learning is a continual part of life. By linking spiritual companions together for this work, it stresses the need for interdependence on each other as we learn, grow, and work for God. Guidelines for creating the IDP will appear in the Leader’s Guide and Participant’s Guide for each module. Third, projects. Each module will have a project that will integrate the core concepts from the module into a service learning activity focused on helping others. This will be an opportunity for the Ambassador class to work together as a whole. You will find INSTRUCTIONS for setting up your project in the back pages of the Leader’s Guide for each module. You might have to plan for multiple projects, depending on the size of your group. The main objective is to incorporate service as a way of life, rather than an occasional activity. Aim for projects that would call for regular involvement over a period of time. Make contact with your volunteer service organizations, the local council, and other entities that could assist you. If your group settles on a particular medium/long term project, there is no need to change the project when the time comes to engage with a new module. Use your discretion. • Fourth, social activities. Ensure that you plan for a social activity at least once a month. Make sure that you always provide opportunities for good and wholesome fun for that age group. You do not have to conduct all your sessions in a building. As appropriate, conduct some in nature, in the context of a camp, in someone’s home, etc. In the back pages of the Leader’s Guide you will find a list of websites where you can access ‘Ice Breakers’ or brief fun activities that you can inject into all your sessions. Of course, CONDUCT ALL YOUR ACTIVITIES PRAYERFULLY. RECOMMENDATION It is highly recommended that you set aside your first meeting as a fun ORIENTATION to share the Ambassadors concept, share the Participant’s Guide, give an overview of the first module, discuss the FOUR elements and their implementation, discuss the frequency of meetings, organize calendars, etc. Participant’s Guide A participant’s guide for each module has been prepared for each participant. The Participant’s Guide is essentially the workbook containing all the sessions of each module that the participant will engage with. In the back pages of each module there is a page for creating the IDP. There is also a list of the sessions for that module that the leader will date and sign upon the participant’s completion. Each participant will be required to complete 75 percent attendance and participation to receive the certification or award at the end of each module. Participants can make-up for missed lessons to achieve the required 75 percent at the discretion of their leader. Fostering togetherness is at the heart of a model for discipleship, which the General Conference is focusing on; it is known as “Together Growing Fruitful Disciples.” This model emphasizes understanding, connecting, equipping, and ministering—but doing all of this “together.” For God did not design us to grow or minister alone, but in community. Paul writes that growing in Christ is achieved as everyone uses the gifts God has given to them, “until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ” (Ephesians 4:13).

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Thank you for helping to educate our young people to become Ambassadors of Jesus Christ and His kingdom. Membership “Late adolescents” who come to church are a varied lot. Most of them likely come from Seventh-day Adventist families and are familiar with the basic concepts of salvation, church, and living in harmony with God. Some have come up through Sabbath school and Pathfinders. You can’t assume, however, that all the teens who show up have such a background. Some have met God personally and committed their lives to Him, while others are still searching and making up their minds. The Ambassador program is a discipleship program for the late adolescents in the local church. Be sure to seek out and invite all the teens in the 16–21 age group that you can find in your church. Make them all feel welcome. The program is entirely for their benefit. Young people who have completed Pathfinders have two options: (1) they can immediately choose to specialize in leadership by opting for either the Adventist Youth Leadership or Master Guide program, or (2) join the Ambassador group. Teens who have not gone through Pathfinders may join either Ambassadors or AY Leadership. Those who engage in the Ambassador program can be encouraged to embark on the specialized leadership training (Master Guide or AY Leadership) at any time, but preferably after completing an entire module of learning. Similarly, those who complete Master Guide and AY Leadership can be prompted to join the Ambassador group. Logo The cross in the logo points to the fact that Jesus’ sacrifice is the center of a relationship with Him. The cross on the earth is symbolic of His sacrifice, giving us hope of a new and better life both here on earth through the concept of servant leadership and through an earth made new at His return. The open book is the Word of God, the foundation for our faith, knowledge, and lifestyle. It is open because it’s a message for us to internalize as our constant guide and companion. It is also for sharing with all who will freely receive it. The graded colors of yellow to orange represent the dawn of eternal life that follows the darkness of our temporal experience on this sinful earth

The Advent Message to All the World in My Generation My relationship to Jesus Christ is of such a nature that it compels me to share the gospel with any who will receive it—the good news of salvation and Jesus’ soon return. The Love of Christ Compels Me I am drawn to Him by His exemplary life, the symbolic act of His crucifixion, His conquering resurrection, and His promise of an earth made new in the pattern of the original creation. The closer I get to Him, the closer I find myself identifying with the needs of my fellow human beings. Mission Statement The mission of Seventh-day Adventist youth ministry is to lead young people into a saving relationship with Jesus Christ and help them embrace His call to discipleship.

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

In the model of youth ministry outlined in re-Visioning Youth Ministries (see http://www. gcyouthministries.org/Ministries/AYModel/tabid/325/Default.aspx), Jesus is the center of all youth ministry as He is the center of all aspects of church life. His life on earth informs us of the three foundational aspects of Christian living, namely discipleship (spirituality), church community, and mission. The Ambassador program is dedicated to nurturing, training, and equipping young people in all three types of ministry. The Ambassador Purpose Statement: The Ambassador group is an organization of the Seventh-day Adventist Church dedicated to meeting the spiritual, social, and lifestyle needs of youth ages 16-21 by challenging them to experience and share a personal relationship with Christ, developing a lifestyle fitting their belief system and vocational interest, and providing them with an adequate venue for wholesome development of lifelong friendships. THE TEN OBJECTIVES To ensure that your ministry brings “late adolescents” into a fulfilling walk with God and their rightful place in the church, consider the following objectives as you explore and develop the program.

1.

Make the number-one priority of your Ambassador programming to be the personal salvation of each and every teen who is a member.

2.

Encourage teens to discover their God-given talents and to use their gifts and abilities to fulfill God’s expectations for them.

1.

Teach the teens to internalize God’s love and His principles so that they will take responsibility for their walk with God and use His principles and the guidance of the Holy Spirit to make wise decisions in their lives.

2.

Help teens to realize that God and His church love them and appreciate the implementation of their talents for the fulfilling of the gospel commission as established in Matt. 28:18–20 and Acts 1:8. Help them find fulfillment in their life with God as they share their beliefs with those whom God brings to them.

3.

Teach an understanding and love for God’s creation through programs of adventure and discovery. The young people will find their fellowship with God to be more meaningful as they have the opportunity to experience that sense of wonder and worship as nature unfolds its deepest spiritual secrets as described in Romans 1:19, 20.

4.

Inspire the teens to give personal expression of their love for God by teaching them how to be involved in various outreach activities.

5. 6.

Teach the teens specific vocational skills and hobbies that will provide them with purpose and employment opportunities.

7.

Provide them with opportunities to develop and demonstrate their leadership abilities. They will strengthen their resolve to learn and maintain appropriate internal discipline and apply their skills of resourcefulness and understanding of the processes of group dynamics.

8.

Provide ample opportunities for teens to interact in carefully supervised activities that will lead to and strengthen life-long committed relationships.

Encourage the young people to develop and maintain physical fitness through an active, energetic, drug-free lifestyle.

DISCIPLINE The ages involved in the Ambassador category include those who are considered under-age in some settings, along with young adults who can be expected to take full responsibility for their actions. The expectation is that all of the Ambassadors will function with self-discipline. Such may not always be the case. You may have sixteen-year-olds who think they are twenty five, and occasionally you’ll have an older young adult who is not willing to live up to the average level of maturity in their age group. So how does a leader set manageable rules that will be respected and enable the organization to function smoothly? A leader must set expectations early on, while not being heavy-handed. “A few simple rules” is a good place to start. The golden rule works well, as does an

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

agreement to love everyone and build them up. You might draw up a short list of principles from God’s Word that you present to the group as the compass for the journey ahead. Bring up basic rules again when the group is doing an activity or taking a trip as a reminder that they are Ambassadors for the King of heaven. Every leader will confront situations of poor decision-making and bad behavior on the part of one or more in the group. The leader must pray and have some idea of what to require of the young person. They must call attention to the problem, talking to the individual alone in a calm, polite manner, and offer a solution that must be followed through. It will involve a change of direction and possibly punishment. Each person should be treated as fully responsible for their actions. That is life in the real world. BRAIN STORMING SESSIONS INSTRUCTION: The facilitator will create Leaders Power Groups (LPGs) of not more than 5 people. Each group participant has to do this assignment as an individual. Each individual brings his/her work to the Leaders Power Group. Each LPG submits a written document to the instructor addressing all the 5 questions. The instructor finally submits the work to the Education Committee to be used for filing and as a resource material. The purpose of this session is to promote as much interaction as possible, as well as to function as a creativity resource for the conference. Each participant is required to do much of the work by reading the resource material on his/her own.

1.

Suppose you are starting an ambassador club in your local church, draw up a structure of your club and define the leadership roles of each and every member. Imagine you are an ambassador leader in a rural church and also in an urban church, draw up a sample of your yearly calendar, debate why you would have those activities for each given church.

2.

In your own assessment as ambassador leaders, discuss why you would call the ambassador club a failed project in Midlands Conference, and clearly state what measures you would put in place to make it exciting.

3. 4.

Discuss what honors you would recommend for ambassadors to do and why. Give 20 action points you would put up as a leader for the ambassador club in your local Church, briefly discuss each of them.

4. SEVEN MODULES I. Discipleship An Ambassador is a diplomatic agent of the highest rank accredited to a foreign government or sovereign as the resident representative of his own government or sovereign or appointed for a special and often temporary diplomatic assignment. Discipleship is an ambassador work, reflecting Jesus in the dark world. Reflecting Jesus—the consequence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit ? did you know... Living as a Christian is like a switch connecting the electricity to a light bulb. If you want light, the switch has to be on. If someone turns the switch off, the light bulb instantly has no power and the room is plunged into darkness. The switch must connect the power supply to the light bulb at all times if the bulb is to give light. Jesus says that He is the vine and we are branches attached to Him (John 15). When we are connected, the sap—His nature—is able to flow from Him into us. Then we will automatically bear fruit because His own nature—His character—is now inside us through the presence of His Spirit (Galatians 5:22-24). But we have to be connected at all times, because the moment we are disconnected from Him, we are disconnected from His nature. When this happens, we are exposed to the temptation of trying to live like Christians, but without divine power!

II.

Leadership

Leadership is defined in many ways around the world: 1. Guiding and directing change 2. Being a person of influence 3. Bringing people to a place where they want to be or should be 4. Organizing and inspiring innovation 5. Seeing a problem and engaging others to help solve it

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

6. Being willing to stand up for what is right, even though you are alone In the Bible there is no one place that specifically delineates what it means to be a leader, however, there are countless stories and insights as to what God expects leaders to be and do.

III.

Outreach

“As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry.” 2 Timothy 4:5 ESV Now, it’s personal ? Did you know... An action or attitude repeated consistently 20-30 times creates a neurological effect, a habit.

IV.

Outdoor

Your outdoor living should reflect Christ by living a Godly character ? Did you know... Personality is a collection of tendencies that make up who you are, most of which are not accessible to you or subject to much change. Character is all of your characteristics having to do with moral/ethical choices and habits.

V.

Vocation

First things first ? Did you know... Ninety-five percent of all returned gadgets still work but are returned because consumers don’t read the manuals (www.gadget.com). What’s Wrong With This Picture?

“Seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things shall be added unto you” Matthew 6:33 Hearing voices and guidance from the gut ? Did you know... Of all the questions young adults have about life, what God wants them to do as a vocation is found in the top five? In today’s workforce, young adults are likely to make significant shifts in their field of work as many as 3-5 times.

“I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people, and his incomparably great power for us who believe” Matthew 6:33

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VI. 1.

Relationship

As a group or individually, read Ecclesiastes 3:1-15. Connect the message of Scripture to the follow comments. Every season of relational growth has its own rules and boundaries. For example, there are activities, conversations, and behaviors that are appropriate for marriage but are not healthy for dating or courtship. The most obvious example would be sexual activity; it belongs healthfully in marriage but it is ultimately destructive in any other context. Even sexual activity does not begin physically, but much like the seasons of relationships below, moves on a continuum. Sex starts in the mind, in unspoken expressions and the nature of conversations that continue to build. Our relationships follow a similar progression.

[DATING][COURTSHIP] [PREMARITAL] [MARRIAGE]

VII.

Community

Christian community development outreach ? Did you know... “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Luke 4:18-19 In the 1960’s in America: • Over half the black families lived in poverty • There was segregation of blacks and whites in most public places • Blacks could not eat in white restaurants, enter white stores, drink from public fountains, etc. • Blacks had to ride at the back of the bus and give up their seat if a white person needed it • In many states less than 50% of blacks were registered to vote • Blacks were not permitted to buy homes/property wherever they wanted, but only in certain areas • Black children were not allowed entrance into white public schools. “The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Luke 4:18-19

5. CLUB MAINTENANCE & PROGRAM Morale, or club spirit, is that intangible element that determines the success of any organization. It is a combination of a variety of important factors. All leaders and subgroup chairpersons will need to work closely together in developing a sense of unity and belonging, and maintaining interest and enthusiasm. Leaders must remember that this club is not a “maxi-Pathfinder” Club. It is geared to the psychological and felt needs of a different age bracket. To best meet those needs, it is best to have a more relaxed informal environment, with a varied, multiple-options program both in content and format and with much input from the participants. A highly structured somewhat more disciplinary format should be reserved for those who are choosing the Pathfinder Leadership training sessions. Club staff will want to periodically review the program with these considerations in mind: 1. Spiritual Objectives Ambassador leaders and all subcommittee leadership will need to ensure that the club operates from a spiritual basis. Scriptural principles must be clearly in focus. Representing Christ in an effective manner must be uppermost. Make full use of your church pastor or church elders. Ensure enough time for devotional growth and do all that is possible to make this time meaningful. 2. Attendance While one always aims for 100 percent attendance, the nature of this club and its programming will not always demand that feature. There will be those that will opt out of certain parts of the program simply because it does not meet their particular needs, however, those whose needs are being met should find it worth their while to attend. Also, one must take into consideration the fact that at this age, individuals will have work and school commitments that will negate 100 percent participation at all planned events. Program input by a large majority of members will ensure greater participation and interest. 3. Personal Contact

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There is nothing so effective as personal contact and encouragement on the part of leaders with those who find regular attendance most difficult. 4. Staff meetings These meetings should not be closed meetings, but should be announced to all and those wishing to attend feel free to do so to add their input. This also becomes a good way to find staff replacements when the needs arise. 5. Members Welcome It would seem unnecessary to say, but ALL persons who attend should be made to feel welcome, even those such as an occasional older person who might be coming only to criticize. A welcome attitude on the part of leaders can strongly encourage the downhearted and be like coals on the heads of the critical. 6. Planning a balanced Program It is easy to get out of balance in a club of this type. It happens because leaders have one preference over another, because one subcommittee chairperson is more enthusiastic or creative than the rest, because some things are simply more fun than others, because leaders shy away from that which they know will draw criticism, and other reasons. Continually evaluate all your options and be sure to include as many as possible. 7. Meeting area Be sure the meeting location chosen or available is appropriate to the activity planned, and Will meet the weather needs. Adequate seating, activity space, materials for instruction or practice should also be considered. The 7 Foundations of Ambassador Programming 1. Leadership development through such curriculum as the Master Guide and S.Y Leader. 2. Community outreach development through service and emergency preparedness training 3. Spiritual development through traditional and innovative evangelistic outreach 4. Lifestyle vocational/career development through specialized multi-vocational training 5. Friendship skills development through specifically focused socials and pre-marriage seminars 6. Character and personality development/awareness through outdoor/high adventure programming 7. Life enrichment development through use of the advanced Honor levels as developed in the AY Honor Handbook

6. UNIFORMS There is a charges in uniform globally recognized for the club. The Ambassador logo, pin, and a light blue scarf are the generic identifying insignias of the club. There has been some evolution in the recommendations made to clubs or conferences that opt for an unofficial uniform. When this manual was first released in 2006, the recommendation was for a light blue dress polo shirt with the emblem on or above the left pocket area. In 2007, this arrangement was changed to a brown polo shirt and khaki pants for men and khaki skirt for women. In 2011, it was further recommended that divisions and unions that choose to wear uniforms adopt the model in the manual but that the color be left to their discretion. A sash or vest can be worn for the placement of pins, honor badges, special event patches, and related items. In 2018 The General conference (GC) has officially adopted a global official uniform for senior youth which may consist of a 1. White shirt /blouse with the emblem on or above the left pocket area. 2. Blazer with a logo, 3. Gray pants/skirts and 4. Burgundy tie/bow tie

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SCARVES 1. The senior Youth Leadership scarf, slide and pin may be worn by any persons who have completed the proper requirements and been invested.

2. A sky blue (very light blue) club scarf with the logo imprinted may be worn by all other club members if so determined by the Division or the Union Youth Department if authorized by the Division. 3. Club emblems representing locally developed organizations that are considered as subsidiary organizations to The Ambassador Club may be worn in any combination with the official emblem so as to denote its rank under this over-arching organization. 4. Master guide/Pathfinder/Adventurer scarves, etc. will not be considered appropriate and are strictly reserved for those involved with those clubs and who would therefore also wear those uniforms. 5. A slacks, blazer or polo; a casual safari-style vest or other clothing device may be used for other special events and other activities in the club. No military, paramilitary, or police emblems are to be worn at any time. 6. In many countries the use of camouflage associated with organizations denotes military and subversive elements. Today we live in a global village, that which is done in one place is known everywhere else, therefore to protect our organization and its existence in these countries, military or camouflage clothing is not considered appropriate at any time. This includes the use of combat boots, blousing of pant legs, and use of any weapons or weapon-resembling substitutes. (In other words anything that may be interpreted by governments as this being a paramilitary organization should not be worn.) 7. A suggested Sabbath dress-up uniform could be the polo shirt or a white dress shirt, grey pant/ a tan “chino� slacks or skirt and plain burgundy tie with a logo, traditional AY navy blue blazer with the club logo on the left chest-pocket of the blazer.

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INSURANCE Your church should have liability insurance, but you should ask the board chair to explain what insurance the church has and what it covers. Depending on the country or region you live in, you may have to include insurance in your budget to cover specific types of activities, transportation issues, and other contingencies. Err on the side of caution with insurance. Pay a visit to the conference/field/mission treasurer for advice. Make sure your group is broadly covered. Remember also that having insurance does not mean you should not be careful about safety. At all times, temper the desire to provide challenges and character growth with the thought that you must safeguard your teens and make sure they come home alive and uninjured. AAM,PG 30-2013 EDITION CAUTION: Be sure all activities are being insured by the church insurance policy against accidental mishaps. Also be sure that all safety regulations are being followed for any high adventure activity as appropriate and promoted by those entities that foster the activity.

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FLAG

Ambassador administrative manual, COPYRIGHT 2013 BY G.C. Youth ministries of S.D.A. Church, page 16.

FINANCES As programming develops and activities become more numerous, finances will become an issue. While most young people may have some personal source of income, many will not and participation will become limited causing discouragement, apathy, and an apparent lack of cooperation. Most of the smaller expenditures may be covered by membership contributions as the needs arise. However fund raising will soon become a necessity. There are several avenues of fund raising available to clubs of this type. Some are perhaps easier to tap but the results may be meager, while others may take more work but the results will be worth the efforts. The easiest sources are those that include those most interested: club members, relatives of members, the church collectively, and other church members. Remember that these sources already provide for much if not all of the local church operating, adding another entity will not necessarily increase offerings; it will likely only spread out thinner what is already being given. Those sources that may be a bit more difficult to utilize but more substantial come from individuals with greater resources, the community at large, businesses, and local government. As the club becomes more involved in community service projects, and develop a reputation for outstanding volunteer work, funds become more readily available. These sources may be carefully cultivated by clear, precise, well thought out presentations, colorful informative printed materials, visible, well-advertised involvement in community Felt-needs, and well run vocational training programs that are open to the community. Today, many are the clubs that completely finance themselves through these methods.

FUND - RAISING POLICY Here are some general guidelines to aid in determining whether or not the proposed fund-raising project meets the standards set by the church. 1. Has the fund-raising program been approved by the local church board and the Field Youth Department? 2. Is the plan in harmony with any ordinances the local community may have in effect? 3. Does it refrain from having to appear to have any resemblance to gambling? 4. Will the product be sold, if this is the case, be sold on its own merit and without reference to the needs of the club or member? 5. Will those purchasing get their money’s worth?

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6. Are any other clubs covering the same territory during the same time as your fund-raising program? 7. Are you reasonably assured of the fact that no one who needs work will lose it because of the fund-raising program? 8. Will the fund-raising program protect the character of The Ambassador Club and the Seventh-day Adventist Church and leave the local field free from any agreement of financial responsibility? Note: A financial report should be given to the church board at least once every trimester, and an activity report should be presented to the church at large and local field youth ministry office also every trimester.

PUBLICRELATIONS SHARE YOUR ACTIVITIES!!!! As a general rule, we seem to strongly believe the statement that the right hand should not know what the left hand is doing. WRONG!!!! Yes, there is a place for that, but not here. Sharing of activities should occur continually and at several levels: 1. Membership—often even local club members are not informed of what is going on—no wonder support is often missing. 2. Local church—if the church is expected to support and be proud of its youth, they must know all the good things that are going on. 3. Community—the news is full of all that is evil with youth, we have the opportunity to counter that fact with all the good that is taking place as well—not to mention the increased financial support it may bring from unexpected sources. 4. Church hierarchy—local church papers, Unions and Divisions, web pages, all need to know so as to encourage growth in all other areas as well. Success can and will be replicated if given a chance.

7. LEADERSHIP Club leadership should be selected by local church boards in the case of locally sponsored clubs as noted above. Leadership in these cases should consist of at least one leader and at least one associate. They should be members of the local church in good standing and of sufficient maturity to serve as mentors and spiritual guides to the membership. There may be situations where a local field would rather organize district, regional, or field level clubs in place of local church clubs (similar to a Youth Federation). In the case of a district club, the leadership will be selected by the Pastor in coordination with the Elders of each church involved. In the case of clubs organized on a wider basis, the club leadership should be selected by the Field Youth Department in consultation with church pastors. Personnel requirements will be the same as in the case of local church clubs with the difference that these clubs will function directly under the sponsorship and guidance of the Field Youth Director. All persons elected should be advised that the leadership position is for a minimum of a two year period baring any need for change as determined by the sponsoring entity due to lifestyle changes, transfer of membership, etc. All leaders should also either have completed their Master Guides or AY Leadership or be willing to prepare for investiture by the end of their first year of service. In addition to the above elected leaders, each club will want to include the services of additional personal to meet their varied needs at different times and depending on the size of their organization. These persons must be willing to abide by the Seventh-day Adventist church lifestyle at all times. There will be occasions to utilize as guest presenters for given topics those who do not practice our church lifestyle, these situations are taken into consideration and allowed as necessary but not encouraged on a long-term basis.

DUTIES OF CLUB COMMITTEE MEMBERS Listed here are ten club leadership positions which may be lumped or further split depending on the realities of each club. There may be other categories which may be added by a local club as needed. Sponsor Generally churches like to elect an adult such as one of the Elders of the church to act as a Sponsor for any and all youth organizations to give sage advice, encourage its leadership, and come to its defense when the need arises. Director This person is elected by the church board. He or she is responsible for all club doings and accountable to the church board. The person should be a person that has shown a high degree of maturity and may be trusted with proper financial management skills as well as have a high degree of interest in the youth of the church. It is recommended that this person also be a member of the church board. Assistant Director May be elected by the church board or chosen by the Director in consultation with the Church Pastor or First Elder. He or she must have the same characteristics mentioned above for the Director and will substitute the Director whenever and wherever necessary. Sub-committee Chairperson Sub-committee chairs. The following groups may benefit from a leader for each of them. The divisions of labor may be lumped together or split further, depending on the size and scale of the Ambassador group and availability of volunteers.

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 Social  Outreach  Music  Recreation Note that there is not a separate sub-committee or leader for spiritual matters. The Bible and God’s principles should be infused in every category of activity in Ambassador ministry. Honors subcommittee Chairperson •Vocational Training •Hobby Development Numerous vocational training activities and hobbies may be encouraged and developed through the use of the more than 250 Honors available. These will encourage our youth to become self-sufficient and provide opportunities for employment in areas that they find interesting and fulfilling as they look ahead to the future God has in mind for them. Outreach subcommittee Chairperson •Friendship Evangelism •Impact Evangelism The primary objective of any entity sponsored by the church is that which will involve the fulfilling of the Gospel Commission. This is done through all forms of evangelism from the traditional formats to creative ideas not yet thought of. It is the role of this team to search for and adapt those methods most suited to their club membership skills and resources as well as local cultural acceptance. This team will also work in close coordination with the Class team and Community Service team to ensure a blending of activities and special events. •Community Service subcommittee Chairperson •Liaison to Service Organizations •Communications—Media/Church •The focus of SDA youth ministry is Salvation and Service. This subcommittee is responsible for providing fulfillment of the second part of that focus to its membership. Every community has organizations that need the volunteer support of our youth from Red Cross chapters to soup kitchens, health institutions and schools the options are nearly limitless. Because these also are so highly visible to the public this team will also need to shoulder the bulk of the publicity for both the secular and church media. Relationships subcommittee Chairperson •Social Events/ Lifestyle •Pre-marriage Seminars No youth group is complete without a strong social component. Youth need to come together for healthy opportunities to socialize. It is also a good way to bring other youth to the knowledge of the gospel. This team must work closely with the Outreach team along those lines. The age of many senior youth is also at the level where basic lifestyle issues and preparation for marriage takes a high priority. Every good club should plan for a series of lifestyle and pre-marriage seminars each year especially for those members reaching that stage in their lives. The lifestyle brochures published by the Youth Ministries Department can serve as a spring board for some of these. These seminars may be large events with invitation to the public or they may be small events designed just for the one or two couples needing them. Recreational subcommittee Chairperson •Camping Events •High Adventure •Sports Related to social events, these types of activities take matters a step further and require their own leadership which will of course still work closely with the above team. Events that involve extended travel, several days of camping, specialized training for effective participation will be the responsibility of this team. There are youth clubs already involved in Search and Rescue and other similar activities of adventure and sporting; these will be a part of this team’s leadership. Standards of Excellence subcommittee Chairperson •Silver Award •Gold Award These two programs will be almost entirely promoted/coordinated by the Ambassador Club. Both are awards designed specifically for this age category and while they have much overlap in application with other subcommittees, they are of an intense and complete

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enough content that they should be handled by one set of leaders. Their fulfillment is strictly regulated by the requirements outline as is the investiture of the emblems representing them. These awards are neither for the faint of heart nor for those who want to “earn something quick”. They require patience, self-discipline, hard training and work—a lot of work. Completion of the Gold level classes a person at near Olympian levels. The manuals for these awards may be downloaded from the General Conference web site: youth.gc.adventist.org

Top 10 Reasons Young Leaders Fail

If you are a young leader that is having difficulty carrying out your responsibilities, take an honest look at yourself as you read this list. You may have the best ideas, planning, and organization, but if you make these mistakes you will doom your ministry before it starts. learn what’s important and disregard the many small pitfalls along the way. 

pitfall# 10. You think problems are a bad thing.- Don’t be discouraged by opposition, Jesus faced it all in His ministry.

Critics and unsupportive leaders are always going to exist. Jesus said that we would be persecuted in His name, so you should expect to have problems as part of a vibrant ministry. It is when everything is rosy that you have to ask yourself if you are actually making a difference or just killing time. Many ministries go on for decades without a single problem but never spur any spiritual growth in the church. Although reliable and hassle free, eventually even these ministries will die out as the members do.  pitfall# 9. You think everyone should be/feel/ think like you.- Only God can separate the chaff from the wheat. Always strive to be inclusive and impartial, especially if you have not been treated that way. Don’t do to others what has been done to you, even if you feel you are right. If what you are doing causes division in the Church community it is not the Lord’s work.

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Leadership isn’t an all-or-nothing affair; you must allow people time to grow. Change is very hard for some and fighting over it defeats your holy purpose and undermines your leadership. Even the best-laid plans cannot work if your congregation will not follow them.  pitfall# 8. You think you know what you’re good at.- The more you give to God, the more He gives you in return. If you take time to expand your ministry, God will give you talents and develop skills that will amaze you. Too many people never advance past a certain stage because they only play to their strengths. This type of leader eventually becomes ineffective and burns out. There is always work to be done and as you mature into new responsibilities, new leaders can rise to learn and grow in your wake.  pitfall# 7. You don’t invest in leadership.-Jesus invested in the 12 disciples and they in turn invested in others. That is how a movement that started with a handful of average and unremarkable followers exploded into a worldwide church. But there is much that remains to be done and you cannot do it alone. Always be on the lookout for people to mentor into leadership. More important than ability is a receptive heart, but no one will be receptive to you unless you are Christ-like to him or her. Remember that investing means that you give of yourself. You can’t expect people to be excited about leadership simply because you ask them to be, you must be willing to share time and energy to this venture. People run when they see a leader coming to ask for help with their program, but are much more receptive to a friend in need of help.  pitfall# 6. You don’t think you can.-The talents that allow you to be a leader were given to you by God for this very function. By using them to help others, you are glorifying His name! Nothing is more fulfilling than carrying out the purpose for which you were created. Keep this in mind when you feel inadequate or unsure of your calling to serve. Before you start your duties, take a moment to reflect on the wonder that is God working through you. Pray with your team for forgiveness and guidance and ask God to cleanse your mind of anything that may stand in the way of your work. Then go into your task confident in the knowledge that God made you for that very moment.  pitfall# 5. You think you can help God.-You are to be a conduit for the Spirit to do His holy work, a work you could never do. This is an important distinction; God can change people, you cannot. Your job is simply to bridge the gap between people and God by creating an atmosphere that is inviting to both parties—just as Jesus did. You should always go out of your way to craft an environment that is warm and inviting to all. Keep in mind that not everybody is at the same point spiritually, so try to cater to the basic and advanced. Remember there are some people that will never be what you want them to be; it is your job to help them find what God made them to be.  pitfall# 4. You think bigger is better. Too often success is judged by the amount of attendees or by the size of the production. More lives have been changed by a small prayer group with no program at all than by a grand show with professional lighting and staging. Starting small and growing a close-knit community is often more productive in the long run than putting on a big show. The important thing is that you learn to adapt to the situation. Learn to do your job whether you are in a large auditorium or small room. Jesus said, “For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them.”  pitfall# 3. You live two lives.-You cannot give what you don’t have. This principle seems simple enough but many people don’t understand that God—although kind and loving, forgiving and long-suffering—can’t be made a fool of. Trying to pretend that you are something you are not will always end in failure. In order to affect any spiritual progress in the lives of the people you are leading there must be steady and continuous spiritual progress in yours. A daily devotional routine and strong prayer life are the corner stones of a strong spiritual leader. You cannot carry out your tasks successfully on your own, so keep God close and learn to depend on His power. 

pitfall# 2. You think the program/event is your ministry.- Many people think—and most of our training events and conferences teach—that leadership is about programming. This is absolutely the wrong focus and leads to the mindset that the word “church” refers to a building when in fact it is a community of believers.

Programming is the means, not the ends. It is a conduit to gather people together, and is certainly a unifying cause, but not as important as the actual gathering. Too often a program is treated like a concert or a play. The problem with this is that people attend and depart these events as strangers. That is not ministry. We should view programs and events like a family dinner, an excuse to be together with the ones you love. If we focus on the event, we lose sight of the family. Would you rather have a five-star, gourmet Thanksgiving dinner with strangers or your mom’s dry turkey with your family?

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The people in the pew are infinitely more important than the program. Everything that happens on stage should be weighed against the benefit of the group. We can never compete with the world in terms of entertainment, but the world can never compete with the power of the Holy Spirit to move people through holy gatherings.  pitfall# 1. You think it’s about you.-This is the most common problem that young leaders face; too many leaders confuse their own ambition with the call of the Holy Spirit. There is simply no room for pride in true leadership. The best, most honored leaders understand that their competence measured by the accomplishments of those they are leading. It is their ability to bring out the best in others rather than their own talents that makes good leaders special. A good leader leads the very best and the very worst equally well, and can guide a unit to become greater than the sum of its parts. You alone could never achieve what a group of people can. Remember that. Whether you’re a Pathfinder director or vespers coordinator, you must never forget that the most important person is not the one speaking up front but the individual sitting in the pew. As such, it is essential that you know whom you are serving. Take time to get to know your audience and their needs and always put them before your preferences. Chase away the black pangs of jealousy that come when others succeed with honest and humble prayer. The moment you care more about yourself than the child of Christ in the pew next to you, is the moment you have stopped being a leader. You may ask God to give you a ministry and be surprised—as I was—when instead, He gives you a love for people.

Christian Leadership is in Touch With God

Those engaged in the work of God cannot serve His cause acceptably unless they make the best use possible of the religious privileges they enjoy. We are as trees planted in the garden of the Lord; and He comes to us seeking the fruit He has a right to expect. His eye is upon each of us; He reads our hearts and understands our lives. This is a solemn search, for it has reference to duty and to destiny; and with what interest is it prosecuted. —Ellen G. White, Christian Leadership, p. 4

leadership : networking Leadership for Today’s Youth

by Hiskia Missah

The Importance of Youth Leadership in the 21st Century

The 21st century is an interesting era, which is known by many as the era of digital technology, the era of information. People are communicating far and wide with limitless numbers of people around the globe with much ease and amazing speed. There are no limits, no borders, and no hierarchical boundaries. People can communicate to anybody in the world without following any protocol and procedures. This is the era of modern technology where knowledge is in abundance. Young people are sending and receiving messages through blogging, e-mails, texting, etc. They are continually making connections and do a lot of networking and sharing of information with everybody else on earth.

But there are several things we need to be aware of: 1. modern technology cannot eliminate all problems in the world, such as the problems of disease, poverty, financial crisis, crime, drug addictions, etc. 20

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2. The basic needs of the youth remain the same from one generation to another—they need to be loved and recognized as individuals, yet they love to work together as a group. They need to belong to a group or organization which can accommodate their aspirations and utilize their knowledge, skills and talents to make a better world for mankind. 3. With the abundance of information young people get from the internet, they need guidance and supervision. Therefore, this is a great challenge for youth leadership in the 21 century to lead, guide, and direct youth in the right path. st

Profileofthe21st Century Youth Millennial Generation

The youth of the 21st century are called the millennial generation. They are the youth who were born between the years 1982to 2001. They are a generation who has grown up with structure and supervision, and with parents who were their role models. They are the youth who are looking for leaders with honesty and integrity. They are the youth who would like to emulate them and they adapt very well.

Civic Minded People

This millennial generation is the most civic-minded people with high ideals— wanting to eliminate AIDS, raises money to help the hungry, and they want to see justice prevail. They are ready and willing to be involved in any humanitarian efforts. When they receive information about natural calamities, disease, or poverty, they are eager to do something and to have their contributions change the world for the better. They have dreams of a world with no more sickness, pain, and suffering. They readily join themselves in any community service done outside of their own countries. Internet Society According to The Pitcairn Journal, December 2009, “There are 190 billion e-mails sent daily—more than 2million per second, by 1.2billion e-mail senders. About 70 percent (133billion e-mails) are spam and viruses. There are about 1.4billion registered e-mail addresses.” Most of these e-mail senders are young people. They can easily and quickly come together because of networking through the internet, telephone, SMS, MMS, Blackberry Messenger, etc. They spend much time in chat rooms, even with people they do not know. They Are Lovers of New Ideas and New Things They love to know and try new things—things they have never done before, things that are difficult, new ideas that have to be developed— and they love to be challenged. A Networking Society They love the idea of working together in a group setting. They want to work with people they click with and they like the idea of supporting one another. This is a generation who believes in putting their minds, talents, ideas, and challenges together. Their key word is “We.” We can work together, we have the same goal, together we will create a better world. They love to have brainstorming sessions where they can come up with ideas bigger than themselves. Direction of Leadership is now prone to cooperative involvement rather than an individual one.

This is a generation who believes in putting their minds, talents, ideas, and challenges together. Their key word is “We.” We can work together, we have the same goal, together we will create a better world. Strategies for the Youth Leadership in The 21st Century

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DevelopRole Model of LeadershipDictionary.com defines the term “role model” as “a person whose behavior, example, or success is or can be emulated by others, especially by younger people.” Leaders should be good role models for youth. Leaders should be trusted. Young people want to see action and not only instruction. One of the most powerful things you can do is to lead by example. Teach them by showing and not by telling, because as leaders, we have to practice what we preach. The way you lead and live will be the most you can possibly expect from the youth. Whatever you do, young people will follow. “The youth should be educated by precept and example that they are to be agents for God, messengers of mercy, ready for every good word and work, that they are to be blessings to those who are ready to perish.” E. G. White, The Review and Herald, November 21, 1893. Provide HeroicTasks for CivicMinded YouthProvide activities for this millennial generation in community service. This will benefit the public as well as the church community. These activities can give much satisfaction to youth knowing that they can make a difference in the lives of others. In doing these kinds of activities, they gain other benefits such as knowing their surrounding better, making friends with many people, and gaining access to civic leaders that will prove to be beneficial to them and to the church in the future. There are various community service ideas which can be done by our youth. To learn more, visit: http://lancaster.unl. edu/4h/serviceideas.shtml. Have the Ability to Master NewTechnologies Leaders should have the ability to master new technologies, especially in the area of information technology. The world we live in has significantly changed. New digital technology has been introduced to every place around the globe, and the internet has radically changed the way we communicate with one another in all parts of the world. Young people love and support leaders who are proactive, creative, and innovative. Technology is developing rapidly every day and people’s lifestyles are changing as well. Leaders should know how to use modern high tech gadgets or at least learn about them. Leaders should make themselves aware of technologies used by youth pertaining to social networking, blogging, e-mail, Myspace, Face Book, Twitter, Bebo, Ehow, YouTube, etc. Learn and Know how to Create new Ideas and New Activities Leaders should know how to create new ideas and new activities for youth in the 21st century. New ideas and activities are countless. We are living in the modern world where information is in abundance and much information is easily available. Take time to surf through the immense amount of ideas by using the Internet and learn from many sources how to generate new ideas and activities for the 21st century youth. Involve young people these goals as well. Work Together in Shared Leadership Leaders will work together in shared leadership to learn how to partner with others to achieve goals. In shared leadership, each member of the group contributes. Sharing visions, setting goals and achieving them together, attract youth to join the group and support its endeavors. A group functions more effectively when all its members are involved and actively participating.•

8. SYL & ICOR VALUE Seminars: 1. Intro to Youth Ministry Understanding the History, Philosophy, Vision, Objectives and Structure of Adventist Youth Ministry 2. Youth Development Understanding the Youth 3. Current Issues The Need for Specialized Youth Ministry 4. Leadership The Senior Youth Leader as a Spiritual Leader 5. Mentoring Ownership and Empowerment in Youth Ministry 6. Church Planning Developing a Purpose Driven Model for Youth Ministry in the Local Church 7. Creative Youth ministry Thinking Outside the Box 8. Serving Spiritual Giftedness and Service 9. Youth Outreach

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

Comprehensive Evangelism 10. Digital Ministry Maximizing Opportunities Offered by Social Media While Circumventing its Hazards

Relationship to Master Guide Both the Master Guide (Junior Youth) and the Senior Youth Leader (Senior Youth) curriculums have some similar requirements and pre-requisites. Candidates can attend some lessons together though each curriculum will dictate the emphasis (junior or senior) thus effecting specialization. Those who already completed the Master Guide program may be exempted from some SYL requirements. The diagram below shows the Youth Ministries structure. Please remember that the SYL and MG are not new levels of the department, they are leadership curriculums for Senior Youth and Junior Youth respectively that complement the structure. Youth ministry today will never be the same as it was yesterday. This statement might sound radical; however, one must consider it as the starting point of a complete rethinking of how we see youth ministry developing and what kind of activities we promote in our churches today. Throughout the world we are witnessing seeming decrease of youth involvement in church life activities. At the same time, we have countless young people that are looking for a place of refuge, a community that they can identify with, and may proudly call their own. We must celebrate what has been done in the past to nurture our youth and take time to rejoice for those who have remained committed and faithful to their churches.

1. INTRODUCTION As a Senior Youth Leader, working with our youth can be the greatest source of joy and satisfaction as we see them grow in Jesus and become disciples of His. “The greatest sense of achievement in ministry comes when a youth leader sees young people enter onto a life-long relationship with God by inviting Jesus Christ to be Lord of their lives” (GC Youth Ministry Handbook 2005, p xiii).

Objectives of the AYM As youth leaders plan the work for their youth in the local church, a clear understanding of the objectives of the AYM is of utmost importance. Ellen G. White in the late 1900s spelled out the key objectives for the department in a letter published in the Signs of the Times, May 29, 1893. Here she set forth the objectives for the department: a) To train the youth to work for other youth, b) To recruit the youth to help their church and “those who profess to be Sabbath-keepers”; c) To work “for those who are not of our faith” In seeking to reach these objectives, the youth are called upon: a) to pray together b) to study the Word together c) to fellowship together in Christian social interaction d) to act together in small groups to carry out well-laid plans for witnessing e) to develop tact and skill and talent in service to Jesus f) to encourage one another in spiritual growth EPIC These are four characteristics that any youth leader should be familiar with if they want fully and effectively lead the millennial workforce of the future at all levels. EPIC generation stands for:

E---Experiential Millennials are experiential in their learning. They aren’t looking for a polished and professional speaker with an impressive PowerPoint in a classroom to learn from. They want to learn from someone walking alongside them who has experience in what they are doing.

P---Participatory Dr. Elmore brings up a good point with this characteristic. He reminds us that this generation has grown up in an age of entertainment and technology that is interwoven together. When a millennial can see how their action affects an outcome, they get fired up and motivated to make the outcome even better.

I---Image rich

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

Between Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Snapchat, millennials have images every time they look at their phone. They have also grown up with music videos, websites, digital cameras, and cell phones. Special attention should be placed on that specific trend that has become a vital part of millennials’ lifestyle. As leaders, if we are not on social media or not able to communicate with simple “smiley face icons”, better known as emojis, we are missing out on a connection with the largest generation in communities today.

C---Connected More than any other generation in the past, millennials are connected. They are connected socially and technologically. With their cell phones, they have a constant connection with the world around us and their circle of friends. These generations understand the immense power of connection. They know that with one tweet or one snapchat they could go viral. Anything they say or do could be viewed by millions upon millions of people across the globe. The question that comes to our mind should be, how can we work efficiently with this EPIC generation in our churches, in our local youth ministries?

APPLYING THE MODEL TO YOUR PROGRAMMING Youth Ministry Programming Cycle Model for the Local church (GCSYMH, p. 30) This youth ministry cycle is presented in order of steps 1-5. While this is the order recommended, your youth ministry cycle does not have to follow this particular order, if your circumstances do not allow. For example, if your ministry is structured into small groups, number 2 would not be part of your cycle; however, you could bring elements of number 1 into your small groups. The AYM model below outlines the concepts of the local youth ministries’ 5-year emphasis where Jesus is central to accomplishing the “Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Out” key emphases in a comprehensive AYM program model during the years 2016 – 2020.

TOTAL YOUTH INVOLVEMENT GC /AYM Quinquennium Theme – “Pass it On”

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

Refer to Pass It On Booklet (GC, 2016) In keeping with the General Conference Youth Ministry Quinquennium Theme of “Pass it On,” the youth leader additionally needs to purposefully incorporate the three key elements of this initiative (Reach Up, Reach In, Reach Across) into their weekly programs, so that all three components are experienced at least once per quarter. This need not be seen as something to add; it is clearly present in all the dynamic elements of life and growth that we have seen already. 1. Reach Up (“For the love of Christ compels us.” 2 Cor. 5:14) Spiritual Renewal through: • Worship • Prayer • Meditation (Ps. 1:2) • Spirit of Prophecy • Bible study (1 Tim. 3:16) • Other Bible Practices 2. Reach In (“By this everyone shall know that you are my disciples if we love one another” Jn. 13:35). Church Community through: • Small Groups • Adventurers • Pathfinders • Ambassadors • Teen Ministries • Supportive Groups • Public Campus Ministries • Young Adults • (Involving Relational/Incarnational/Intergenerational) 3. Reach Out (The Gospel to all the World in my Generation… tell the World). Mission Service through: • Public Evangelism • Small Groups • Personal Evangelism (My Story/His Story/Our Story) • Reclaim • Adventist Volunteer Services • Service Projects • Church Planting • Web Evangelism

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See the three principles clearly in His own earthly life: Luke 6: 12-19 (NIV) a. Reach Up – vs. 12 “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray and SPENT THE NIGHT PRAYING TO GOD.” b. Reach In – vs. 13 When morning came, he called HIS DISCIPLES TO HIM AND CHOSE TWELVE of them, whom he also designated apostles: vs. 14 Simon (whom he named Peter), his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, vs. 15 Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called the Zealot, vs. 16 Judas son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

c. Reach Out – vs. 17 HE WENT DOWN WITH THEM and stood on a level place.

A large crowd of his disciples was there and a great number of people from all over Judea, from Jerusalem, and from the coastal region around Tyre and Sidon, 18 who had come TO HEAR HIM AND TO BE HEALED OF THEIR DISEASES. Those troubled by impure spirits were cured, 19 and the people all tried to touch him, because power was coming from him and healing them all.

SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTION For many youth the internet and social media are great ways to access information, get entertainment, and stay connected with friends and family, but for some—a surprisingly large number—the internet can actually become an addiction.

WHAT DOES iCOR MEAN? In Europe, we are facing the same challenges and questions confronting our church in many other parts of the world: What can we do to keep our youth in the church? Or how can we win them back? The Center for Youth Evangelism (CYE), a research institute at Andrews University, developed the Church of Refuge (COR) concept. According to Ron Whitehead at the CYE, churches of refuge are “inclusive, accepting, community-oriented, strategically placed, safe, spiritual environments for young adults. They are faith communities that accept people for who they are, where they are. That is, friend-ship and acceptance are not given or withheld due to personal history, appearance, current belief system or other factors. Also, members know they will not be disrespected or excluded because of mistakes, questions or doubts. In these communities designed to meet their needs, young adults can seek God and grow in Him.” (Ron Whitehead, CYE 2008) 1 .THE FAMILY OF GOD

We believe in a relational God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. God is fully one. The Bible uses words in the category of “family” to describe God. In this context, God created humankind as man and woman and commanded them to be fruitful and multiply. iCOR is therefore based on the biblical understanding that God created two fundamental social units that foster spiritual growth and through which faith is primarily passed on and supported: the nuclear family and the extended family. 2 .INTERGENERATIONAL, INTERCULTURAL AND INTER-SOCIAL-CLASS

iCOR emphasizes an inclusive approach that is welcoming all generations, cultures and social milieus. This is rooted in the conviction that we all need each other in order to grow spiritually. Just as it is with people of various ethnic backgrounds, different generations also often represent diverse cultures, lifestyles and faith traditions. The “i” in iCOR therefore stands not just for intergenerational, but also for intercultural and inter-social-class. Churches that actively seek to fulfill the “i” and therefore to establish positive interpersonal interaction show appreciation for each individual, but do not promote a purely individualistic attitude. They foster a climate of fellowship that respects and integrates all generations, connecting them with the body of Christ in a special way. The biblical principle that “the heart of the fathers shall turn to their sons” (Malachi 4:6) is of utmost importance for them. As a result, the hearts of the children will turn to their fathers. An intergenerational community does not mean that each generation insists on asserting its own rights and needs, but rather that their hearts turn to each other. Life in general and God’s order of creation require that the parent generations— those who have already been able to establish themselves—should be the first to turn to the young generation—those who are still searching. 3’THE YOUTH AS PARTNERS

If a church wants to be relevant, it would be well-advised to orient itself on the youth. Quite often, they are a mirror that reflects contemporary society and times to a greater extent than the older generations. We dare not ignore the large number of young people who leave our churches (but do not necessarily abandon their faith!). Although there are many factors that can play a role in this, we must take the question of how we can satisfy the spiritual needs of our young people more seriously than we have been in the past. “VERY MUCH HAS BEEN LOST TO THE CAUSE OF TRUTH BY A LACK OF ATTENTION TO THE SPIRITUAL NEEDS OF THE YOUNG …” Ellen G. White, Gospel Workers, p. 207.2-3

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

THE 10 iCOR VALUES IN 4 CATEGORIES

The iCOR values, ideas and resources are intended to help churches engage in dialog about these values, so that with God’s help, they may become more and more the spiritual home that God would like us to be for his children and the community in which we live. The research shows that above all the younger generation will be very thankful for that.

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

“AND THE HEART OF THE FATHERS SHALL TURN TO THEIR SONS AND THE HEART OF THE SONS SHALL TURN TO THE FATHERS” Malachi 4:6

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

YOUTH LEADERSHI P AWA R D SCHE DULE January Pre-requisite You and God ((req. 2) March You and God (req. 2 cont.) You and Youth (req. 1a) May You and God (req. 2 cont.) You and God req. 4a July You and the Church (req. 2) You and the Community (req. 1) September You and God (req. 1) You and the Church (req. 2) November You and the Church (req. 1)

February You and God (required 2 continue) You and God (req. 4b) April You and God (req. 2 cont.) You and Youth (req. 1b; 2) June You and God (req. 2 cont.) You and the Church (req. 2 cont.) August You and the Church (req. 2) You and the Community (req. 2) October You and God (req. 3) December You and God (req. 3 test) You and the Church (req. 1

OUTREACH SUB COM YEARLY SCHEDULE January Friendship Evangelism Project March Holy Week Evangelism May Community Seminars July Evangelism planning September Baptism November Christmas planning

February Friendship Evangelism Project cont. April Seminar planning June Community Seminars August Evangelistic meetings (YLA) October Friendship Evangelism Project December Christmas outreach

COMMUNIT Y S E RVICE SUBCOM YEARLY SCHEDULE January Plan Community Project I March Plan May Better Living Project (YLA) July Plan Community Project II September November Community Project III

February Community Project I April Better Living Project June Better Living Project (YLA) August Community Project II October Plan Community Project III December Christmas party for orphans

RELATIONSHIPS SUBCOM YEARLY SCHEDULE January New Year’s Welcome March Pre-marriage Seminars-1,2 May Pre-marriage Seminars- 5,6 “Social to Save”—Spring Party July Lifestyle Seminar- 2 “Social to Save”—Summer at the Lake Party

February Valentine’s Day (Friendship Day) April Pre-marriage Seminars- 3,4 June Lifestyle Seminar-1 (YLA) Weekend Retreat at Camp (YLA) August Lifestyle Seminar- 3

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Mtendere mission district, woodlands Zambia Conference-Leadership in Ambassador Ministry, 2019

September Lifestyle Seminar- 4 “Social to Save”—Fall Party November Lifestyle Seminar- 6

October Lifestyle Seminar- 5 December Christmas Sharing Party

RECREAT IONAL SUBCOM YEARLY SCHEDULE January Caving Trip March Bicycle Camp May Beginner’s Camping weekend July Rock Climbing Trip September Canoe Trip November

February Team Sport I Tournament April Orienteering Meet June Backpack weekend August Track and Field Day/ Triathlon October Search and Rescue Training Camp December

Team Sport II Tournament

Winter Campout

Resource Material used for this handout 1. Ambassador Administrative Manual 2. Youth Ministry Handbook 3. Seven modules-ambassador 4. Senior youth leader manual Recommended Study Material 1. Adventist Youth Leadership Award 2. Pathfinder Leadership Award 3. Advanced Pathfinder Leadership Award 4. Church Manual (2015 edition) 5. Any Leadership Books

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