Near North’s Youth Week of Prayer Experience

Orangeville youth leaders take a moment to smile while leading the afternoon AY for Near North region.

Global Youth Day this year was a powerful reminder that when young people come together with purpose, faith, and a heart to serve, God moves in incredible ways. From the very beginning of the week, there was a sense that something special was unfolding across our region.

We started on Wednesday night at Holland Landing SDA Church for prayer meeting, and it set the tone for everything that followed. Hearing our youth share their testimonies was deeply moving—stories of perseverance, faith, and the desire to grow closer to God. They also opened up about their prayer requests, especially around their schoolwork and personal challenges. It was a beautiful moment of vulnerability and community, where we were reminded that we are not alone in our journeys.

Pastor Hong connecting with members of the Holland Landing youth ministry team.

That same spirit carried into vespers at Holland Landing, where we reflected on the difference between reputation and relationship. We were challenged to think beyond how we are perceived and instead focus on building a genuine, personal relationship with God—one that transforms us from the inside out.

Sabbath was full and overflowing with blessings. We began in Orillia, joining their Sabbath School led by Brother Lance Flash. From there, we traveled to Barrie SDA Church, where we worshipped and connected with the Barrie youth. A highlight was speaking with young adult Asirane, who is preparing to launch the very first ACF chapter at Georgian College—a huge step forward in creating spaces for faith on campus. We also heard about upcoming outreach initiatives led by AY leader Wacira, showing that the mission is alive and active.

Youth leaders at Holland Landing before going out for Global Youth Day 2026 outreach.

Our journey then took us to Orangeville SDA Church, where the youth made a powerful sacrifice—they chose to skip lunch so they could go out and serve their community. Led by AY leader Aaron, alongside his siblings and hospitality coordinator Eden, their commitment to outreach was nothing short of inspiring.

We ended the day in Toronto Perth, supporting youth from Owen Sound and Shelburne in their PBE competition, where they placed first. We praise God for their dedication and achievement! And although we couldn’t be physically present, we celebrate the Barrie Spanish SDA youth who were actively engaged in outreach across Toronto.

This Global Youth Day wasn’t just an event—it was a movement of Communion in action. Our youth showed that when we are united in purpose, rooted in Christ, and willing to serve, we can truly make an impact.