International Youth Department
Meet Our Leaders
Pastor Benjamin Stephens, PhD President, International Youth Department Youth Ministry is his affinity. The indescribable excitement of transforming young lives is his passion and heart s desire. Undoubtedly, Dr. Benjamin Stephens has been anointed for such a time as this. The journey of Dr. Stephens has come with great faithfulness and dedication to God, his family, his Church, and his community. His commitment is yet evident as he has become a generational voice within this dispensation. Preparation for this time began locally at the West Angeles Church of God in Christ, where he served for 11 years as the Young Adult and Collegiate Pastor. In addition to this capacity, he served as the Youth Department President for the First Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction of Southern California. As a community leader, Dr. Stephens served as a chaplain of the Interfaith & Ecumenical Affairs, undergirding college students of Loyola Marymount University (LMU) and Higher Learning Ministries of University of Southern California (USC). His diligence in leadership earned selection by Charisma Magazine, acknowledging him as one of the nation s top 21 emerging Christian leaders. While youth ministry continued to flourish under his guidance, he was elevated to the office of Regional VicePresident, assisting Youth Departments, coordinating Youth Rallies, and establishing Youth workshops across the MidWest. As President Stephens revolutionized Youth ministry with relevant administration, his most prominent accomplishment was seen in the International Youth Department of the Church of God in Christ during his tenure as the Coordinator for Young Men of Valor and his loyal involvement as VicePresident to former Youth Department President, Superintendent Linwood Dillard. It is without question that this soldier has moved fluidly through the ranks of Youth Ministry with excellence and is now being celebrated as the International Youth Department President as a result of divine appointment, January 2013. President Stephens has remained steadfast in ministry as well as education, inspiring many to pursue goals. His educational background is complete with an earned Bachelor of Arts degree in Business Administration, with a concentration in Marketing from Whittier College; a Master s Degree in Divinity from C.H. Mason Theological Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in Atlanta, Georgia; and a Doctorate Degree in Youth and Family Ministry from Fuller Theological Seminary. Dr. Stephens is also the CoAuthor of the cutting edge book entitled, From JayZ to Jesus. Conclusively, President Stephens is married to the love of his life, Lady Latonya Stephens and they currently reside in the state of Missouri serving as Senior Pastor to Trinity Temple Church of God in Christ. He is the proud father of one son, Benjamin Stephens, IV. Through the preached Word and his authentic teaching style, Dr. Stephens is commissioned to build the Kingdom of God through love, carrying ministry beyond the four walls of the Church into the streets, transforming the lives of youth across the world.
Evangelist Joyce L. Timmons Rodgers International Youth Department Chairlady Born and raised in Gladewater, Texas, Evangelist Joyce Rodgers is a third generation daughter of the Church Of God In Christ. As prophecy has become evident, Evangelist Rodgers is a woman of abundant talent, demonstrating extraordinary leadership skills within the Church Of God In Christ. Shortly thereafter, she was appointed to the office of Youth Department Chairlady of the Texas Northeast 1st Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction. While serving in this leadership role the first Jurisdictional Youth Choir, Youth Church, Youth Praise Dance Team and Youth Vacation Bible School was founded, arranged and systemized. From the rung of Jurisdictional Coordinator to the International Chairlady of the Youth Department, Evangelist Rodgers has certainly remained steadfast on the ladder of youth leadership. As the fourth Chairlady to serve in this international capacity, Evangelist Rodgers gained national attention while working the altar and serving on the Youth Executive Board. In 1999, the late Bishop Chandler David Owens appointed her as the International Chairlady. The year was filled with synergy, as the innovative President and the charismatic Chairlady Joyce Rodgers structured the department to experience undeniable success for the youth and the workers. In the year 2000, the late Bishop G.E Patterson reappointed her as Chairlady. As a result, Holy Convocation Youth Church was established under her leadership. In January 2009, the Presiding Bishop Charles Edward Blake, Sr. reassigned her to the position of Chairlady. As an agent of change, Evangelist Rodgers has implemented several programs to increase the quality of young women such as Created to Praise, Sister to Sister, Young Women in Ministry, Moms of Warriors, the Wives of Presidents and Can You Hear Me Now?, the annual forum of 1500 women. To highlight the premier programs established in her cabinet, the acclaimed Young Woman of Excellence is the stellar mentorship tool implemented to assist in the personal growth and overall development of young women. In addition to program implementation, she is a community activist who has raised awareness of Juvenile Diabetes through Just Kickin It, an exercise forum. Annually, women s shelters are provided with pink blankets through the Cover Me Campaign. Lastly, Destined to Change (D2C) provides young people the opportunity to donate coins to various charities. Most important to her service is the connection between the young woman and her vital significance to the fabric of the Church. It is without question that Evangelist Rodgers brings flairs of youthfulness to her position as International Chairlady Increasing the quality of life through spiritual enrichment, Biblical literacy, financial proficiency, academic distinction, polished leadership skills and physical wellness are motivating factors that fortify my mission.
International Youth Department VicePresidents Elder Nathaniel Green Pastor Derrick Hutchins, II Supt. Micaiah J. Young Assistant Chairladies Evangelist Lawanne Grant District Missionary Felicia Sanders Education Commission, CoDirector
International Youth Department Education Commission Evangelist Jeana MorrisonAdams IYD Commissioner of Education Evangelist Jeana MorrisonAdams is an active member of Emmanuel Church of God in Christ in Houston, Texas under the pastorate of Bishop Hewett Richardson, Sr. and Pastor Hewett Richardson. She is a member of the Texas Central Metropolitan Jurisdiction where she serves as the Dean of Education of the T.C.M.J. AIM Team. In addition, Evangelist Adams is the president of the Advisory Board for the T.C.M.J. Women s Department under the leadership of Mother Dr. Gladys Lockett Ross. Evangelist MorrisonAdams is married to Elder Mance J. Adams and is the proud mother of one daughter, Karrington Adams and one son, Mance Chandler Adams. Missionary MorrisonAdams is a graduate of Texas A&M University in College Station, Texas. At present, she is employed as an assistant principal of curriculum in Aldine Independent School District. She is honored to serve the Church of God in Christ International Youth Department as Director of the Education Commission. Elder Andre OrtizCastro IYD CoCommissioner of Education Andre Ortiz Castro is from New York City and the proud father of one son, Desmond De Andre Castro. He was an active member of the historic Kelly Temple Church of God in Christ under the leadership of Bishop James Gaylord, prelate of New York Eastern First Jurisdiction, and ordained Elder in the Church of God in Christ. Castro as he is affectingly called, received his Bachelor of Arts in Communications from State University of New York @ Ole Westbury, and a Masters of Public Administration from Baruch College in New York City, also completing a certification in Clinical Supervision, from Columbia University Institute for Nonprofit Management. He is a recent graduate of The Interdenominational Theological Center Charles H. Mason Seminary in Atlanta, GA. He is an active member of the Cathedral of Faith COGIC, under leadership of Pastor Arthur F. Mosley, where he is presently the instructor of the New Believers/Members Orientation Class. He also works with the International Youth Department of the Church of God in Christ as the coordinator for the Young Men of Valor. In 2013 he was appointed YPWW President for the North Central Georgia Ecclesiastical Jurisdiction in 2013 by Jurisdictional Prelate, Bishop Joseph E. Hogan. Working daily with the youth of Metro Atlanta as the Director of Adolescent and the Director of Adolescent Health and Youth Development Services for Gwinnett, Rockdale, and Newton County Department of Public Health with the Georgia Department of Community Health, where he developed, implements and supervises the staff of the Adolescent Health Youth Development Programs which are all totally school based programs in the Gwinnett County Public Schools.
International Youth Department Departmental Administrators Superintendent Edwin Walker Evangelist Tahiti Tinsley Elder Paul Gatlin
Meet Our Facilitators
Elder Edward Clark Elder Mance J. Adams Sister Joy Stokes Moton Evangelist Bridgette Wright Evangelist Annette Dunbar Dr. Cathy Owens Oliver
Pastor M. Lamont Cooper Pastor Derric McRae Elder Jarad Davis Pastor Gilbert White Sister Rhonda Rippy Lady Trina Golden Mothers of Warriors
International Youth Department Schedule Of Events
MONDAY, JUNE 29, 2015 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DEPARTMENT COURSE SCHEDULE Evangelist Jeana Morrison Adams, Commissioner of Education Elder Andre Castro, Co Commissioner of Education Finance Office in 2 locations: 1 st Floor Room 6 & 4 th Floor Room 35 TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR 10:00 pm 12:30 am Pool Side The Presidential Poolside Chat President Benjamin Stephens 12:00 pm 11:00 pm Meeting Room 13 IYD Game Room IYAC 12:00 pm 3:00 pm Hotel (lobby) IYD Pep Rally IYD Executives & Team 3:00 pm Meeting Room 9 Chat N Chew IYD Chairlady Joyce L. Rodgers TUESDAY, JUNE 30, 2015 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DEPARTMENT COURSE SCHEDULE Evangelist Jeana Morrison Adams, Commissioner of Education Elder Andre Castro, Co Commissioner of Education Finance Office in 2 locations: 1 st Floor Room 6 & 4 th Floor Room 35 TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR 7:00 am Hotel Executive Staff Meeting President Benjamin Stephens 7:30 am Room 9 Department Training Vice President Micaiah Young Asst. Chairlady Felicia Sanders Room 1314 Young Women of Excellence IYD Chairlady J. Rodgers/ YWE Coordinators Room 1516 Young Men of Valor Elder Andre Castro
TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR Room 10 Music &Media: The Tricks, The Traps, The Truth Elder Mance J. Adams, Sr. Room 11 Youth Leaders 101: Ethics, Enlightenment, Encouragement Pastor Gilbert White 9:55 am Room 12 Created to Praise Sister Joy StokesMoton 10:00 am Room 12 COGIC Cheerleading and Praise Evangelist Annett Dunbar Meeting Room 8 IYD Educare: The MisEducation of Young Black Youth Dr. Cathy OwensOliver Meeting Room 9 Mental Health: Parents Are YOU in the KNOW? Dr. Jonathan Shepherd Meeting Room 10 Young Preachers Network Vice President N. Green & Elder P. Gatlin 9:00 pm Meeting Room 13 Jurisdictional Presidents Meeting Eld. Jason Jones 11:00 am East Hall MY Convention Service 2:00 pm 6:00 pm & 10:00 pm 12:30 am Meeting Room 13 IYD Game Room IYAC 7:00 pm East Hall Main Service 3:00 pm6:00 pm & 10:00 pm 1:00 am 10:00 pm 1:00 am West Hall IYD Sports Challenge Evang. Gilbert White Grand Ball Room The Gathering Place Eld. B. McCargo 10:00 pm 1:00 am The Yacht Starship The COGIC Comedy Cruise 10:00 pm 1:00 am Meeting Room 9 COGIC Cafe Pastor M. Lamont Cooper
WEDNESDAY, JULY 1, 2015 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DEPARTMENT COURSE SCHEDULE Evangelist Jeana Morrison Adams, Commissioner of Education Elder Andre Castro, Co Commissioner of Education Finance Office in 2 locations: 1 st Floor Room 6 & 4 th Floor Room 35 TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR 7:00 am Hotel Executive Staff Meeting President Benjamin Stephens 7:30 am Meeting Room 9 Department Training Vice President Micaiah Young Asst. Chairlady Felicia Sanders Room 1314 Young Women of Excellence IYD Chairlady J. Rodgers/ YWE Coordinators Room 1516 Young Men of Valor Elder Andre Castro Room 10 Youth Pastors Network Pastor D. McRae & Elder J. Davis Room 11 Youth Leaders 101: Passion, Purpose, and Pathways Chairlady Rhonda Rippy 9:55 am Room 12 Created to Praise Sister Joy StokesMoton 10:00 am Room 12 COGIC Cheerleading and Praise Evangelist Annett Dunbar Meeting Room 8 Wives of Presidents Lady LaTonya Stephens Meeting Room 9 Mothers of Warriors Lady Trina Golden & M.O.W. Coordinators Meeting Room 10 Youth Pastors Network & Young Women in Ministry Vice President N. Green & Evangelist Bridgette Wright 9:00 pm Meeting Room 13 Jurisdictional Presidents Meeting Eld. Jason Jones 11:00 am East Hall MY Convention Service
TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR 2:00 pm6:00 pm & 10:00 pm 12:30 am Meeting Room 13 IYD Game Room IYAC 2:30 pm 5:00 pm Grand Ball Room COGIC Girls Rock & Charisma Men Rehearsal IYD Chairlady J. Rodgers/ Elder Andre Castro 5:00 pm 6:30 pm Grand Ball Room 7:00 pm East Hall COGIC Girls Rock & Charisma Men Ice Cream Social Main Service IYD Chairlady J. Rodgers/ Elder Andre Castro 3:00 pm6:00 pm & 10:00 pm 1:00 am West Hall IYD Sports Challenge Evang. Gilbert White 10:00 pm 12:30 am Hallel Luau President Benjamin Stephens 10:00 pm 1:00 am 10:00 pm 1:00 am Grand Ball Room The Gathering Place Eld. B. McCargo Meeting Room 9 COGIC Cafe Pastor M. Lamont Cooper THURSDAY, JULY 2, 2015 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DEPARTMENT COURSE SCHEDULE Evangelist Jeana Morrison Adams, Commissioner of Education Elder Andre Castro, Co Commissioner of Education Finance Office in 2 locations: 1 st Floor Room 6 & 4 th Floor Room 35 TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR 7:00 am Hotel Executive Staff Meeting President Benjamin Stephens 7:30 am Meeting Room 9 Department Training Vice President Micaiah Young Asst. Chairlady Felicia Sanders Room 1314 Young Women of Excellence IYD Chairlady J. Rodgers/ YWE Coordinators Room 1516 THE LOCKER ROOM President Benjamin Stephens Room 10 Youth Leaders 101: Cyberspace and Social Networking Chairlady Sherida Tatmon
TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR Room 11 College Student Network Elder Edward Clark 9:55 am Room 12 Created to Praise Sister Joy StokesMoton 10:00 am Room 12 COGIC Cheerleading and Praise Evangelist Annett Dunbar Meeting Room 8 Sister 2 Sister IYD Chairlady Joyce L. Rodgers Meeting Room 9 No More Drama: Marriage and Relationship Empowerment (Day 1) Dr. Wil and Dr. Grace Nichols Meeting Room 10 Young Women in Ministry Evangelist Bridgette Wright 3:00 pm 6:00 pm Hotel COGIC Girls ROCK/ Charisma Men IYD Chairlady J. Rodgers/ Elder Andre Castro 11:00 am East Hall MY Convention Service 2:00 pm 6:00 pm & 10:00 pm12:30 am Meeting Room 13 IYD Game Room IYAC 7:00 pm East Hall Main Service 3:00 pm6:00 pm & 10:00 pm 1:00 am West Hall IYD Sports Challenge Evang. Gilbert White 10:00 pm 1:00 am Grand Ball Room The Gathering Place Eld. B. McCargo 10:00 pm 1:00 am Meeting Room 9 COGIC Cafe Pastor M. Lamont Cooper
FRIDAY, JULY 3, 2015 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DEPARTMENT COURSE SCHEDULE Evangelist Jeana Morrison Adams, Commissioner of Education Elder Andre Castro, Co Commissioner of Education Finance Office in 2 locations: 1 st Floor Room 6 & 4 th Floor Room 35 TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR 7:00 am Hotel Executive Staff Meeting President Benjamin Stephens 7:30 am Meeting Room 9 Department Training Vice President Micaiah Young Asst. Chairlady Felicia Sanders EAST HALL CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW? Evangelist Joyce L. Rodgers Room 1516 Young Men of Valor Elder Andre Castro Room 10 Youth Pastors Network Pastor D. McRae & Elder J. Davis 9:55 am Room 11 College Student Network Elder Edward Clark Room 12 Created to Praise Sister Joy StokesMoton 10:00 am Room 12 COGIC Cheerleading and Praise Evangelist Annett Dunbar Meeting Room 8 Young Adult Ministry: Keeping it Real! Pastor M. Lamont Cooper Meeting Room 9 No More Drama: Marriage and Relationship Empowerment (Day 2) Dr. Will and Dr. Grace Nichols Meeting Room 10 Young Preachers Network Vice President N. Green & Elder P. Gatlin 9:00 pm Meeting Room 13 Meeting w/jurisdictional Presidents Eld. Jason Jones 11:00 am East Hall MY Convention Service 2:00 pm 6:00 pm & IYD Game Room IYAC
10:00 pm12:30 am Meeting Room 13 7:00 pm East Hall Main Service 3:00 pm6:00 pm & 10:00 pm 1:00 am 10:00 pm 1:00 am 10:00 pm 1:00 am West Hall IYD Sports Challenge Evang. Gilbert White Grand Ball Room The Gathering Place Eld. B. McCargo Meeting Room 9 COGIC Cafe Pastor M. Lamont Cooper SATURDAY, JULY 4, 2015 INTERNATIONAL YOUTH DEPARTMENT COURSE SCHEDULE Evangelist Jeana Morrison Adams, Commissioner of Education Elder Andre Castro, Co Commissioner of Education Finance Office in 2 locations: 1 st Floor Room 6 & 4 th Floor Room 35 TIME LOCATION COURSE FACILITATOR 10:00 am 12:00 noon Exit Celebration
International Youth Department Courses & Sessions Descriptions
Course Title: COGIC Cheerleading Facilitator: Evangelist Annette Dunbar For the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. John 4:2324 COGIC Cheerleading is designed to enhance ministry through movement. It is an avenue in which cheerleading and praise dance is taught and ministered according to scripture. COGIC Cheerleading is utilized as a handson opportunity to teach technique, structure, choreography, and many other aspects of the liturgical dance ministry. Cheerleading is Spirit in motion. Each movement, gesture, expression and action speaks to our relationship to God. It interprets scripture, illustrates a theme, communicates a feeling and brings the Holy Spirit into motion. It is inspired by God to edify the body and enhance the overall worship experience. COGIC Cheerleading instructs on the proper use of cheerleading to advance the Body of Christ into the next level of worship. COGIC Cheerleading helps to usher the body of Christ into higher dimensions of praise and worship. COGIC Cheerleading is merely a key to unlock the door that will reveal the unique anointing that is housed within the liturgical dance ministry and to reestablish this necessary component in the worship experience. COGIC Cheerleading is open to all dance teams and individuals (male and female) that are a part of or interested in being a part of the liturgical dance ministry.
Course Title: College Student Ministry Facilitator: Pastor Edwin Clark Course Description: The purpose of this workshop is to help empower college students to overcome obstacles and to live a victorious life by applying biblical principles to everyday situations they face on college campuses. Course Outline Introduction: The purpose of this workshop is to help empower college students to overcome obstacles and to live a victorious life by applying biblical principles to everyday situations they face on college campuses. Session One: Maintaining a Healthy Spiritual Lifestyle while Attending College 1. Be Encouraged Don t Fear! 2. Don t Be Afraid To Be Different 3. Understand Your Mission While On Campus 4. Remember What You Were Taught 5. Chose The Right Environment And Friends 6. Pray Daily 7. Read Your Word Daily 8. Get Involved In A Campus Ministry 9. If You Fall Get Up! 10. Become A Fisher Of Men Session Two: Answers to the Hard Questions About Dating and Relationships 1. What Does The Bible Say About Being Single? 2. What Does The Bible Say About Love? 3. Can I Date An Unbeliever Being A Christian? 4. Is It Okay To Flirt? 5. How Do I Deal With Flirting? 6. I Just Want A Kiss Is That Okay? 7. Is It Okay To Date More Than One Person At Once? 8. What Does The Bible Say About Leading People On? 9. How Do I Recognize A Good Woman? 10. How Do I Recognize a Good Man?
Course Title: Created to Praise Facilitator: Sister Joy StokesMoton Course Outline I. What is Liturgical Dance? a. The definition of Liturgical or Liturgy b. The definition of Dance II. The Calling of the Worshipper a. What is worship? i. The 7 Hebrew words for Praise ii. Praise vs. Worship b. Forms of worship c. How do you know when you re called d. Gifts vs. Anointing III. The History of Praise and Worship a. Preparing for Battle I. How to remain faithful to the ministry through test and trials. b. The reign of King David i. A man after God s own heart (a true worshipper) IV. What are the purpose, goal, and place of Liturgical Dance in worship? V. Types of Liturgical Dance (The progression of Praise into Worship) a. Praise Dance (Outer Court) b. Worship Dance (The Holy Place or Inner Court) c. Prophetic Dance (Holies of Holies) VI. Dance etiquette a. The Attire b. The focus and movements VII. Choreography session (Participants will learn a choreographed praise dance)
Course Title: Mothers of Warriors Facilitator: Lady Trina Golden Course Description: Our primary purpose is to bring various kinds of women issues to the forefront. These issues appear to be overwhelming to women; therefore, they are afraid to either deal with the issue or too afraid to ask for help to overcome the challenges they are facing. Many women choose not to face an issue because they are too busy being wife, mother, and missionary or just being a woman. In our sessions we let the women know that it s ok to ask for help. We want the women to know that we are here. We provide a venue for them to receive godly advice, strength and encouragement from seasoned women of God. We let them know that it s natural to become tired, overwhelmed, and frustrated; however, we instill in the participants of the session the belief that God is real and he is ready to lift them up where they fail. Course Outline Our primary purpose is to bring various kinds of women issues to the forefront. These issues appear to be overwhelming to women; therefore, they are afraid to either deal with the issue or too afraid to ask for help to overcome the challenges they are facing. Many women choose not to face an issue because they are too busy being wife, mother, and missionary or just being a woman. In our sessions we let the women know that it s ok to ask for help. We want the women to know that we are here. We provide a venue for them to receive godly advice, strength and encouragement from seasoned women of God. We let them know that it s natural to become tired, overwhelmed, and frustrated; however, we instill in the participants of the session the belief that God is real and he is ready to lift them up where they fail. Wednesday, July 2 nd, 2014 "Loving Me" (Pampering event) * You are fearfully & wonderfully made (Psalms 139:14) * Your body is the Temple of the Holy Spirit (Corinthians 6:1920) * Love yourself (Corinthians 13:47) Thursday, July 3 rd, 2014 "You will survive, there is a warrior in you!" (Panel Discussion) *Learning how to balance roles *Dealing with the death of children *Beating depression *Blended families * Raising special needs children *Infidelity/Divorce
Course Title: IYD Educare: The Miseducation of Young Black Youth Facilitator: Dr. Cathy OwensOliver Course Description: Since the No Child Left Behind (NCLB) law took effect in 2002; it has had a sweeping impact on U.S. public school classrooms. It affects what students are taught, the tests they take, and the training of their teachers and the way money is spent on education. Parents are you in the know about your child (children) education? This session will address what youth leaders need to know and be able to do about the miseducation of our children and why there can be no separation of church and state when it comes to educating our youth and responding to systemic failure. The presenter will explain national education research in laymen's terms to help church leaders understand Common Core standards, college readiness, and test preparation. Participants will gain practical strategies and tools youth leaders can immediately use in the local church. Session Outline: Data Supporting Miseducation: Our Children Left Behind Education vs. Incarceration: Gifted But Guilty Common Core Curriculum? You Better Know it! Standardized Tests: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly Charter School Caution: What to Look for Starting Now: What To Do Today in Your Local Church and Community
Course Title: Young Men of Valor Facilitator: Elder Andre Castro Course Description: Bring together hundreds of young men from across the country in a series of high energy activities and workshops on leadership development, community service, advocacy, character education, college and career preparation designed to enhance their awareness of themselves and the world around them acquiring skills that will help them change the outcomes for other young people in their schools, churches and communities. References: Young Men of Valor Manual, King James Version Bible Tuesday June 30, 2015 Topic: Sex What Should A Young Man Do! Description: Abstinence is the only 100 percent effective method for avoiding unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections, including HIV. Young men should be encouraged to delay sexual initiation. We will acknowledge the importance of abstinence and provide young men with the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to make abstinence work. However, even young men who pledge to remain abstinent need information about how to help them prevent unintended pregnancy, HIV and other STDs. Wednesday July 1, 2015 Topic: Where Does Violence Come From? Description: Violence in our relationships, in our families, on our streets, and in our schools continues to be one of the most significant social issues of our time. Much (although not all) of this violence is done by men and teenage boys. Do saved young men learn from parents, friends, and peers? Or, do they make decisions based on messages they receive in school, clubs, and the church? What about our mass media, military, or country s laws? Do they play a role?
Thursday July 2, 2015 Topic: LEADERSHIP and ETHICS (LeadershipCharacter Development) Description: What is a leader and what does one look like? Leadership and Ethics provides participants with the essential tools for character development by exploring the concept of the three C s: Character, Civility and Community. Participants gain a better understanding of themselves through developing teamwork and leadership through cooperation, and group activities. Does one do good because it is good to do good or does one do good because it is better to appear to do good? Or what is good? Through applying Bible principals, students learn to apply sound reasoning to good character. Friday July 3, 2015 Topic: MY COLLEGE SEARCH Description: How do I make good decisions? Does God really care about where I go to college? Join in for a discussion based workshop on biblical principles to guide your college search. This will not only be a howto guide to finding the right college, but a thought provoking discussion on principles to guide you and your family in the process of narrowing down your college options. We will look at current data regarding Christians and how their college choice affects their faith and future and discuss some timelines for what, when and how to begin the process.
Course Title: Young Adult Ministry Facilitator: Pastor Lamont Cooper Young Adult Ministry Forum Tuesday, June 30, 2015 YAM Xchange This workshop training will provide insight for careers, financial positioning, spiritual growth and personal development. Some instructions may include but are not limited to: Are you dressed for success? Is your attitude right? Have you prepared any and every way to win that position? I feel stuck, what now? Thursday, July 2, 2015 Relationship 101 for Couples and Singles This workshop session will have a Panel Discussion and training to develop couples and singles in relationship building. Panelist will share insights on how to develop relationships whether it is for professional or personal reasons. These relationships may be simply for friendships or the pursuit of marriage and God connections. This workshop will allow attendees the opportunity to inquire from others who are successful and who have learned the dos and don'ts of relationship building.
Course Title: Young Preachers Network Facilitators: Vice President Nathaniel Green & Elder Paul Gatlin Course Description: The Church of God in Christ is ever growing and evolving. It is imperative that the next generation of young preachers grasps a better understanding of the church and their role as young leaders in the church. While realizing that we have been called to become great stewards and leaders, we must also reiterate the principle that every good leader was first a good follower. This network will allow young preachers from all parts of the country to share best practices for the pulpit and outside of the pulpit. Course Outline The Church of God in Christ is ever growing and evolving. It is imperative that the next generation of young preachers grasps a better understanding of the church and their role as young leaders in the church. While realizing that we have been called to become great stewards and leaders, we must also reiterate the principle that every good leader was first a good follower. This network will allow young preachers from all parts of the country to share best practices for the pulpit and outside of the pulpit. I. Acknowledging and Answering the Call to Ministry II. Understanding and Abiding in the Call III. Knowing and Following the Pastor s Vision IV. Godly Conduct of Young Preachers V. Inspiration, Motivation, and Revelation VI. Searching the Scriptures VII. My Brother s Keeper
Course Title: Young Women in Ministry Facilitator: Evangelist Bridgette Wright Course Description: This course will provide opportunities and training for young women in ministry to develop their spiritual gift and focus on God s immediate will for their life. References: Young Women of Excellence Manual Course Outline Mission: To provide opportunities and training for young women in ministry to develop their spiritual gift and focus on God s immediate will for their life. Target Audience: Young Women in Ministry, Ages 13 to 24. Focus: Spiritual Guidance, Spiritual Mentoring, Networking, and Discipleship Goals & Objectives 1. Spiritual Guidance Teach, correct and encourage young women in ministry to deepen their faith and experience spiritual renewal by reading the word of God and applying it to their gift. 2. Spiritual Mentoring Build selfesteem and confidence through teaching that all young women in ministry have inestimable work because they have been created and chosen by God. 3. Networking Build networks among the young women in ministry to encourage bonds of friendship and mutual support and the creative exchanges of ideas and information that will help develop their call. 4. Discipleship Promote soul winning by providing techniques to lead young souls to Christ. Mission Accomplished! The Young Women in Ministry is a very serious, compassionate and energetic group! Our engaging activities include: 1. Annual Training Summit National AIM Convention 2. Online networking through technology to build friendships while building their faith and gift. 3. Participate in the Can You Hear Me Now to provide input from the young women in ministry culture.
Course Title: Youth Leaders 101: Ethics and Empowerment Facilitator: Pastor Evangelist Gilbert White Course Description: The International Youth Department Church of God in Christ has developed the following code of ethics for youth ministry leaders and workers. The International Youth Department recommends that youth ministry leaders and workers adopt this code by signing, dating, and placing it in their personnel file & giving a copy to their pastor, jurisdictional bishop and International Youth Department President and Chairlady. This code of ethics is intended for youth ministry leaders regardless of status and level within the church (i.e.: local, district, jurisdictional, and international, Y.P.W.W. President, Y.P.W.W. Chairlady, Executive staff). Course Outline Professional Ethical Obligations 1. Accountability a. Youth ministry leaders and workers are accountable to the pastor or other duly representatives, under the authority of the Jurisdictional Prelate, International Youth President & Chairlady, the General Board and the Presiding Bishop of the Church of God in Christ. b. Youth ministry leaders and workers exercise extreme caution and diligence when advising and/or counseling the youth, young adults, and their parents. The Church of God in Christ will not be held accountable for any misconduct performed by youth leaders and workers. c. Youth ministry leaders and workers are called to serve the faith community, carrying out their ministerial functions and assignments conscientiously, zealously, and assiduously. d. Youth ministry leaders and workers exercise responsible stewardship of resources while holding themselves to the highest standards of integrity regarding the financial matters placed in their trust. 2. Ministerial Role a. Youth ministry leaders and workers faithfully represent the teachings of the Church of God in Christ with integrity & dignity in word and action. b. Youth ministry leaders and workers work collaboratively with the pastor (and/or other church leaders) and associates in ministry. c. Youth ministry leaders and workers are competent and receive education and training commensurate with their role(s) and responsibilities. d. Youth ministry leaders and workers respect the diversity of gifts and anointing within the faith community and will not make their personal form of spirituality normative. (I.e. Dress code, praise dance and other forms of worship, makeup, etc. are not the same and consistent in every local church, district or jurisdiction). The youth leader and worker will remain in compliance with the pastor, district superintendent, and/or Jurisdictional Prelate concerning these matters. 3. Conduct a. Youth ministry leaders and workers are aware they have considerable power because of their ministerial position. Therefore, they will sustain respectful ministerial relationships avoiding manipulation and other abuses of power & authority. b. Youth ministry leaders and workers maintain appropriate boundaries (e.g. physical, sexual, relational, and emotional). Romantic, dating, or sexual relationships between a youth ministry leader or worker and an adolescent are inappropriate and unethical. Youth leaders and workers will not hold the Church of God in Christ accountable for any misconduct. c. Youth ministry leaders and workers model healthy and positive behaviors with adolescents. d. Procuring, providing, or using alcohol, and/or controlled substances for or with youth (adolescents) are inappropriate and unethical.
4. Inclusion a. Youth ministry leaders and workers recognize the dignity of each person and refrain from behaviors or words that are discourteous and condescending of anyone or any group. b. Youth ministry leaders and workers serve all people without regard to gender, creed, national origin, age, marital status, socioeconomic status or political beliefs. The Church of God in Christ will not be held accountable for any misconduct performed by youth leaders and workers. c. Youth ministry leaders and workers ensure that all persons have access to the resources, services, and opportunities they require with particular regard for persons with special needs or disabilities. 5. Confidentiality a. Youth ministry leaders and workers respect confidentiality, yet are not held to confidentiality in the event that it may cause harm to the individual, group, or the Church of God in Christ. b. Youth ministry leaders and workers adhere to civil and ecclesiastical law concerning the reporting of neglect, abuse, or when physical harm could come to the person or to a third party. Youth leaders and workers will notify the proper church and civil authorities in the event that confidentiality must be breached. c. Youth ministry leaders and workers support the rights and roles of parents while ministering to the needs and concerns adolescents. 6. Referrals and Intervention a. Youth ministry leaders and workers are aware of the signs of physical, sexual, and psychological abuse and neglect. b. Youth ministry leaders and workers are aware of their limitations with respect to paraprofessional counseling and make appropriate referrals. c. Youth ministry leaders and workers adhere to civil and ecclesiastical law, policy, and procedure for reporting abuse, suspected abuse, or neglect.
Course Title: Youth Leaders 101: Passion and Purpose Facilitator: Chairlady Rhonda Rippy Course Outline Leadership In General Leadership includes the capacity to influence, inspire, rally, direct, encourage, motivate, induce, move, mobilize and activate others to pursue a common goal or purpose while maintaining commitment, momentum, confidence and courage. Leadership is the ability to lead others by influence. Leadership is also responding to responsibility. If this is the case, almost everyone has acted in a leadership capacity at some point in life. If you have been asked to run an errand for your parent, restore order to the kitchen after the Thanksgiving meal, make a presentation before a class, organize an event, then you have exercised some measure of leadership. Leadership is the organizing and coordinating of resources, energies and relationships in a productive context for an intended result. In short, leadership is the managing of managers toward a common goal. Effective Leadership is impossible without realizing purpose that generates passion for accomplishment. Once purpose and passion are identified, an effective leader must operate with a keen sense of the mission of the organization in which he/she serves and his/her personal mission. Purpose The foundational key to being a leader is to discover and capture a sense of purpose for your life and the ministry. Purpose is the original intent; a reason for the creation or existence of a thing. A leader has a clear vision that engenders persistence and perseverance, even in the face of adversities or failures. He/she should possess a strong sense of destiny and significance with a deep love for life and the specific ministry. General The Local Church Specific Why You? What s Your Purpose? Activity: Identify 3 Purposes of the Church. (Your opinion /Bible) Activity: Identify 3 Reasons for your involvement/participation with the church. Passion Passion is an intense emotion that causes one to have an eager outreaching of mind toward some special person, object, activity, duty or calling. A leader must have a deep controlling desire that makes his/her commitment to the purpose a love affair with destiny. The leader must love what he does and love doing it. Think About It: What are you passionate about? What excites you? What drives you fanatical? What do you seriously enjoy? Keeping purpose and passion in the forefront of our minds, allows us to maintain the proper focus and directs our goals and plans towards the mission of the organization and our personal mission.
The kind of work God call you to is the kind of work that you need most to do and that the world most needs to have done The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world s deep hunger meet. Frederick Buechner Mission Simply described, mission is what you aim to do. It is the business or service on which one is sent. Mission is that which one is or feels destined to accomplish. Mission is the continuing task or responsibility that one is destined or fitted to do or specifically called upon to undertake, and has two synonyms: Calling and Vocation (assignment). (What Color is Your Parachute, R.N. Bolles) If you want to discover your mission, it takes time. For many, it s a learning process. There is an implication that God has already revealed His will to us concerning our vocation and mission, by causing it to be written in our members. God has written his will twice in our members: First, in the talents which he placed in us Second, in His guidance of our heart, as to which talent/gift that gives us the greatest pleasure to use (it is usually the one that, when we use it, causes us to lose all sense of time). We are to begin deciphering our unique mission by studying our talents and skills, and more particularly which ones (or one) we most rejoice to use. (Bolles) Guiding Questions. 1. What am I called to do? 2. What has God spoken to me or revealed to me about my purpose? 3. Why has God placed me where I am? 4. What am I supposed to do? 5. How am I supposed to do it? 6. What do I have easy ability to do? 7. When the Spirit of God is moving and flowing through the worship service, what do I have the natural (although spiritual) ability to do? (Gifts of the Spirit)
Course Title: Youth Leaders 101: Social Networking & Cyberspace Facilitator: Chairlady Sherida Tatmon References: Internet Course Outline Introduction: This interactive and highly energetic class will explore the various mediums of technology that allow our youth to text, blog, share photos, music, and other personal information. Can we use the technology to our advantage and trust our young people to make smart decisions? Join us in this class as we deal with the real issues facing our youth as we strategize for successful outcomes. We can t run from technology. Warning: This is a class for the fearless and the real soldiers! The online world opens the door for trusting young people to interact with virtual strangers even people they'd normally cross the street to avoid in real life. About 1 in 7 kids have been sexually solicited online, says John Shehan, CyberTipline program manager for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children in Alexandria, Virginia. The CyberTipline helps prevent sexual exploitation of children by reporting cases of kids enticed online to do sexual acts. While sexual predators have targeted children in chat rooms, they migrate to wherever young people go online, Shehan says. More predators are now scouring social networking sites, such as MySpace and Xanga, because these sites have centralized so much information, Shehan says. A child's profile typically includes photos, personal interests and blogs. "In terms of predators, that's obviously a hot spot where they can go to research victims," Shehan says. "They need to meet these kids, groom these children and become friends." Predators may take on fake identities and feign interest in a child's favorite bands, TV shows, video games or hobbies. "They come across to the children as their new best friend. They're going to have the same likes and dislikes," Shehan says. "It's quite crafty what these child predators will go through." Internet Safety Tips Ask your children if they use a social networking site. Look at the site together or search for it yourself online. Social networking sites often have age limits. MySpace prohibits kids under 14 but doesn't verify kids' ages, so anyone can use it. If you want to delete a site, work with your child to cancel the account, or contact the social networking site directly. Tell your kids not to post a full name, address, phone number, school name and other personal information that could help a stranger to find them. Remind them that photos like your child in a team sweatshirt can give away clues to where they live. Ask them not to send photos to people they meet online. Learn about privacy settings that allow kids to choose who can view their profiles. Explain that strangers who approach them online aren't always who they say they are and that it's dangerous to meet them in real life. Tell them to "instant message" only with family or friends they already know offline. When it comes to Internet safety, there's no substitute for parental supervision. Put your computer in a common area of your home, not a child's bedroom, so you can keep an eye on online activities. Go to websites that explain the shorthand kids use in instant messaging, like "POS" ("parent over shoulder") or "LMIRL" ("let's meet in real life"), so you know what's going on.
Course Title: Youth Pastors Network Facilitators: Pastor Derric McRae & Elder Jarad Davis Course Description: Youth pastors spend a lot of time with young people, teens in particular, reaching out to offer spiritual guidance. To succeed in this field, a youth pastor must relate well to teens and be able to hold their interest in churchrelated activities. Youth pastors also must model the characteristics that are important to the church in their personal and professional lives. Course Outline Youth pastors spend a lot of time with young people, teens in particular, reaching out to offer spiritual guidance. To succeed in this field, a youth pastor must relate well to teens and be able to hold their interest in churchrelated activities. Youth pastors also must model the characteristics that are important to the church in their personal and professional lives. The following are important aspects that will be discussed in the sessions about being a youth pastor: VIII. Shepherding the Youth Group IX. Acting as a Confidant X. Teaching Church Programs Examples weekly bible study, Sunday School, etc. XI. Organizing Youth Activities and Programs XII. Knowing and Following the Pastor s Vision XIII. Following what the Church teaches XIV. Being a Godly Role Model
Course Title: Young Women of Excellence Facilitators: Lady Shavon Sellers, Evangelist Takeitha Carter, and Chairlady Demetra Williams Course Description: To encourage young ladies between the ages of 1321 years of age to live life to its fullest by having good morals, budgeting principles, social graces, preparatory college skills and the ability to make good career choices References: Young Women of Excellence Manual Course Outline DAY ONE My Body, God s Temple: Discovering the PRINCESS in YOU! This class will discuss selfconfidence and how to deal with emotional issues that lead to depression and selfdefeating disorders DAY TWO Financially Fierce Show Me the Money! This class is designed to promote financial success and responsibility as a young woman DAY THREE Girl on the RunWay Look out world here I come! This class will highlight the importance of the beauty inside and out. Be ready to display the person you are at all times and enjoy being runway ready! Young women will learn to embrace who God has designed them to be and live a Holy and acceptable life, pure and righteous before God.
Course Title: Music & Media: The Tricks, The Traps, and the Truth Facilitator: Elder Mance J. Adams, Sr. Course Description: The purpose of this class will be to examine the symbols and possible messages imbedded in what we are exposed to everyday as well as what our children are exposed to everyday. From the simplest cartoons to rap music, to some of the most complex movies, evil symbolism and messages are communicated to us to ways unimaginable. Have you ever watched the cartoon SPONGEBOB and noticed references to the Greek god Neptune? Is this just by chance? Have you noticed the increase in representations in gay marriages in weekly television shows aired on major networks? The negative influences of music and media can be found in many venues. Turn on the television and flip through the channels or listen to radio, YouTube, etc. and there is a good chance that you may come across some of the following situations: Violence, crime or fighting scenes Explicit sex scenes or conversations about the topic Alcohol, cigarette or drug use People making bad decisions such as dating someone dangerous Cursing or other verbal obscenities Unhealthy reflections of body image The purpose of this class will be to examine the symbols and possible messages imbedded in what we are exposed to everyday as well as what our children are exposed to everyday. We will discuss things people of all ages are exposed to in some cases not even knowing it is happening. Examples of messages in rap music Examples of messages in television Examples of message in movies Alleged secret societies and their possible impact on music and the media
Course Title: No More Drama in Marriage and Relationships Facilitators: Dr. Wil and Dr. Grace Nichols I. Day 1: Overcoming Spiritual Drama in Marriage & Relationships A. Principalities (Territorial Drama) B. Powers (Personal Drama) C. Rulers of Darkness (Temptation Drama) D. Spiritual Wickedness (Spiritual Drama II. Day 2: Body, Soul, and Spirit in Marriage & Relationships A. Emotional Drama of Soul Ties B. Overcoming the 5 Conditions of the Wounded Souls C. Godly and Ungodly Soul Ties D. Making the Right Choices
Course Title: Wives of Presidents: Ministering to the LGBT Community Facilitators: Dr. LaTonya Stephens III. II. III. IV. Objective The Wives of Youth Presidents would like to begin a discussion with wives of ministry leaders and mothers in how to love and win the ostracized and most talked about communities in our Church. Goals Expand knowledge in soulwinning Grow in wisdom through love Solution (less is much more) Love and kindness Education Support Selflessness Workshop Outline The Church of God in Christ does not support same sex relationships (Romans 1), but is inundated with grave challenges within the church related to homosexuality, HIV and AIDS. Invite wives of COGIC leaders between the age of 1849 "Coming Out of the Closet" Expertlead discussion about the facts and myths regarding youth in the LGBT community Address how to effectively minister to youth and young adults that are struggling with their sexuality Myths and misunderstandings about AIDS A Christian response to HIV/AIDS and LGBT related concerns Anonymous Q&A