First Church DC Hosts Bilingual Youth Day
It was a joyful day of unity at First Church on Saturday, April 26th! Youth, their families, and other church members filled the pews, 300 strong, on this very special day! Amigo de Jesus Church 1 and 2, and First Church came together to fellowship and worship the Lord together!
Pastor Reid commented, “Bilingual Youth Day was so important because it created an opportunity to bring together youth from different cultural background-primarily Hispanic and African-American communities. We are seeing a concern trend where young people, especially those from these backgrounds, tend to leave the church after going away to college. By hosting this event, we hoped to create a sense of unity, belonging, and shared purposed among our youth, helping them see the value of community in Christ and encouraging them to stay connected to the church.”
Pastor Reid, Head Pastor of First Church noted that on that day of unity “the African-American youth contributed to the service by leading the Children’s Story “Momento infantile” and participating in other aspects of the worship experience, while the Spanish church youth led praise and other key portions of the service. It was a beautiful example of collaboration across cultures.” Pastor Reid, Pastor Romere, and Pastor Jovaney participated in the service by adding words of encouragement.
The altar was beautifully decorated with balloons and flowers in white, blue, and yellow, representing unity! Pastor Romere of Amigo de Jesus Churches 1 & 2 said “we are the same no matter what color or nationality. We can use our own language to worship our God, which is the same God!” He said the Spanish youth hailed from nations such as Argentina, Bolivia, Dominican Republic, El Salvado, Honduras, Guatemala, Nicaragua, and Peru, ages ranging from 14 to 35 years old.
The theme “Conectaldos con Jesus” – “Connect with Jesus” was the thread connecting youth to Jesus in word and song that day. Pastor Reid stated that “Bilingual Youth Day was so important because it created an opportunity to bring together youth from different cultural and linguistic backgrounds-primarily Hispanic and African-American communities.”
Pastor Reid, Head Pastor of First Church also commented that “the Spanish Church has been worshipping at First Church for about a year or just under. During this time, we’ve engaged in various activities together, including community service projects, joint worship services, social gatherings in the evenings, and shared meals. We’ve also worked together in ministry efforts. These joint experiences are crucial because they allow us to build relationships, break down cultural barriers, and model what the body of Christ truly looks like – diverse, yet united. Working together helps us learn from one another and strengthen our collective mission.”
Pastor Elijah Stanley delivered an impactful, relatable sermon, emphasizing The Law of Proximity, adding veggie nuggets of inspiration. He stated that “success is determined by your proximity to opportunity, being near Jesus provides life changing opportunities, and that talents and education can get you but so far. It matters who you are connected to; by connecting to Jesus, you are in proximity to a blessing. Your life questions become clearer as you become closer to Jesus.”
In commenting about the present/future impact that our youth is having on furthering God’s work, spreading His gospel, Pastor Reid stated that “it was clear that our youth are not only capable but eager to do ministry when given the opportunity.” When they are empowered to lead, they rise to the occasion and demonstrate a strong commitment to sharing the gospel and serving the church. It also showed me that language and ethnic differences are not barriers in God’s kingdom. The real challenge is whether or not we give our young people the space, encouragement, and responsibility to pursue their gifts for God. If we do, we are more likely to see them stay involved and spiritually grounded for the long term.”
Pastor Romere echoed a similar comment: “the youth are revitalizing our church. They have abilities that we older ones don’t have, and we need to take advantage of those abilities. If we don’t allow them to use their talents and gifts for Jesus, then they will use them for other purposes.” We must train and trust them to lead out.” He concluded that “we need to continue working together—our Hispanic and African-American churches.
Unity is the proof that we love one another.”
Pastor Reid concluded, stating, “the day proved that when we give our young people the opportunity to lead, they rise to the occasion. As Paul reminded Timothy, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young.” Our young are not just the future of the church—they are the present, and they have a calling to set an example in faith, love, and service.” - 1 Timothy 4:12.
Following the benediction, everyone was invited to the fellowship lunch to continue engaging.
Submitted by Rhonda M. Covington