T.E.A.M. Stepped into the Revolution

Words danced off the tongue in a beautiful harmony, arms raised reverently, and soft, gentle tears flooded eyes. More than 200 11th and 12th graders knelt, stood, and sat – worshipping God and learning about His character at the third annual Youth Leadership Institute's (YLI) T.E.A.M. Conference.

Themed “Step into the Revolution,” the conference, held July 8-16, gave students hands-on ministry training while emphasizing community, transformation, leadership, and discovery. The week was designed to partner with local churches to develop youth leaders and includes a grueling week of intense theological study.

“This conference breathes new life into what it means to be a Christ follower,” said Robin Dugall, M.Div., executive director of the YLI. "We want to raise up a sense of calling."

“[The speakers] talk about how God is calling us to have a relationship with Him,” said Colin McLaughlin ’08. “It’s more than saying a prayer to follow Him.”

McLaughlin attended the conference since its inception three years ago, and this year was a student leader. Now a sophomore, he credits the conference for being the driving force in attending APU. “I just saw the community at APU,” said McLaughlin. “And I felt like that’s where God wanted me to go.”

For more information, visit the Youth Leadership Institute webpage or call (626) 815-5472.

Posted: July 18, 2005