Madam President

The IMPACT Magazine caught up with the Rev. Karen Kirlew, President of the Jamaica Baptist Union, recently and had a chat about some of the issues which affect our Baptist youth. Keep reading to hear what our President had to say.

Rev Karen Kirlew

What vision do you have for the development of the youth of the JBU Rev?

The development of youth in the JBU should: aid in the formation of their faith; empower them to become effective in the ways they will impact the Church, the community and the world; promote greater selfawareness so that they will effectively articulate and engage their passions and interests; all for the sake of the mission of God.

What are some of the challenges that you think our youth are currently faced with?

Our youth are currently faced with many challenges. These include; the shifts in perceptions and worldviews which find our youth contemplating and trying to make sense of their belief systems; the search for identity; and at a time when the options are many, trying to discern where and how they fit in and which option will give clarity and meaning to their lives.

How can our churches actively practice living in partnership in ways which will benefit our youth?

Our churches must; give our youth the space to think freely and speak openly without condemnation; use areas of interest to communicate to them the message of the Christian faith; serve as models of faithfulness, care and compassion; encourage the giftedness and resourcefulness of our youth, build relationships with our youth while helping them to respond to the opportunities to grow and to experience God's grace and goodness.

What charge would you give to our youth concerning our current theme: Living in Partnership?

I would like to charge our youth in the JBU to remember that living in partnership is about a life of ongoing self-commitment and shared relationships. It is, therefore, important to be consistent in the efforts towards a deepening of spirituality which should result in our youth looking out for the interests of others and not only for their own interests. I also ask that our youth allow their lives to be centered upon the pillars of partnership which include; Humility, Dignity, Civility, and Community.

Wise words, Rev. Kirlew, in closing would you like to add anything for our YD audience?

[Sure, I would like our youth to know that] in this age of varying interests and concerns, the JBUYD is rightly poised to do its part to encourage youth involvement in church and community through training in discipleship and by building relationships. I pray for an openness of heart, mind, and will to the purposes of Almighty God who is always ready to partner with us.