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MERIDA, Leyte –East Visayan Conference (EVC) successfully held its first-ever Senior Youth Leadership (SYL) Convention on June 27-28, 2025, at Libas Seaside in Merida, Leyte.

Under the theme "Level Up: Lead the Change," the event brought together youth leaders from across the conference for a weekend focused on spiritual revival, leadership development, and commissioning for service.

The convention was preceded by 10-hour online SYL training courses delivered through four Zoom sessions. Topics covered included "Introduction to Youth Ministry," "Youth Development," "Current Issues, Leadership," "Serving," "Youth Outreach," "Mentoring," and "Digital Ministry."

The final two topics, "Church Planning" (presented by Pastor Paul Emmanuel Barcenas) and "Creative Youth Ministry" (given by Pastor Godofredo Romanillos Jr.), were conducted in person during the convention weekend.

Pastor Emmanuel Paul Barcenas currently serves as the director of Children's Ministries, Integrated Evangelism Lifestyle/Nurturing, Discipleship, and Retention (IEL/NDR), and the coordinator of Adventist-Laymen's Services and Industries-Adventist Professionals (ASI-Ad Pro). On the other hand, Pastor Godofredo Romanillos Jr. is the district pastor of the Buraen District.

The convention commenced on Friday evening with a vesper service led by Pastor Jonathan Fernandez, district pastor of Isabel-Merida, who welcomed the delegates into a weekend of mission-focused learning and reflection.

Later, an activity titled "Walk in My Shoes" followed. It was an interactive workshop designed to help participants practice mentorship and Christ-centered guidance in complex scenarios through fictional youth profiles.

Throughout the Sabbath, the participants gained more valuable insights and lessons from the lectures presented by the guest speakers.

Among the topics delivered was "Temperament Analysis," part of the Ambassadors Module 4, presented by Rishan Laurice Seguido, a registered psychometrician. This short lecture aimed to help participants understand their personality types and leadership styles.

Moreover, Pastor Von John Sanchez, youth director of the Central Philippine Union Conference, delivered the message during the divine worship. He elaborated on the story of Gideon and his 300 soldiers, drawing powerful lessons that inspired the listeners.

He said that God intentionally reduced their number, chose those with meek, humble hearts—reflecting the attitude of Christ, and used unlikely weapons—trumpets, pitchers, and torches—not to weaken them, but to show that the battle was His.

"Their victory did not depend on their strength or strategy, but on their faith and God's mighty hand," Sanchez added.

In the afternoon, the organizers facilitated an open dialogue titled "Breaking the Stigma." It aimed to address mental health, stigma, and spiritual support.

The convention culminated on Saturday night with the SYL Commissioning and Graduation Ceremony. A total of 86 youth leaders were commissioned, and five youth leaders graduated, receiving pins and scarves symbolizing their readiness to serve.

Sanchez delivered another message during the ceremony. He emphasized the difference between "Master Guide" and "Senior Youth Leadership." Although different in focus, leadership style, and scope, one is not superior to the other.

"Both are complementary leadership training programs united by one goal: to lead and serve young people in Christ," he explained.

Sanchez also spearheaded the donning and pinning ceremony alongside other pastoral leaders.

For most participants, the convention marked not just a training event but the beginning of a movement aimed at empowering a new generation of youth to lead change and become Christ-like servant-leaders in their communities.

Amor May Tripoli, one of those commissioned, shared how she first learned about the SYL program from a friend long ago and how she personally got involved with it.

"I had many questions about how someone could join," Tripoli said. "I initially thought it was just another Masterguide training."

"I had many questions about how someone could join," Tripoli said. "I initially thought it was just another Masterguide training."

However, after listening to one of the resource speakers explaining the purpose and goals of the program, her perspective changed. She realized that the SYL program focuses on young adults in the church. While Masterguides prioritizes younger individuals, SYL focuses on those navigating the transition into adulthood.

"I am very grateful that we have this kind of organization. I am excited about what this program has in store for me and how it works. I am hoping that this turns out well with the help of God," Tripoli added.

By Marie Danielle Laroa, East Visayan Conference

The article's original version is published on the official Facebook page of the East Visayan Conference Youth Ministries Department.