by Vincent Bergado
On March 15, 2025, the Durham Filipino-Canadian Seventh-day Adventist Church (DFCC) joined believers from across the region in celebrating Global Youth Day—a worldwide initiative where young people put their faith into action through community service. This year’s theme, “A Community Transformed,” inspired our youth to step out, serve, and share God’s love in practical ways.
Beginning with Devotion and Prayer
The day started at the McDonnel Community Centre in Peterborough, where we gathered for a heartfelt devotional and prayer session. Despite it being winter, the weather was perfect—crisp, sunny, and invigorating—setting the tone for a blessed day of service. As we reflected on the theme, we were reminded that true transformation begins with a heart surrendered to God.
Franz, one of our youth leaders, shared, “Starting the day with worship helped us focus on why we were serving. It wasn’t just about cleaning or handing out pamphlets—it was about showing Christ’s love in action.”
Serving the Community with Love
After our devotional, we split into groups for a park clean-up in designated areas around Peterborough. Equipped with gloves and trash bags, we worked together to beautify the community spaces. Alongside the clean-up, we distributed hot chocolate and uplifting pamphlets to residents, bringing warmth and encouragement on a chilly morning.
For Ebenezer, it was his first time participating in a Global Youth Day event. “I didn’t know what to expect,” he admitted, “but seeing how grateful people were for small acts of kindness really touched me. It made me realize how powerful simple gestures can be.”
Fellowship and Nourishment
After the clean-up, we returned to the McDonnel Community Centre for a warm lunch prepared by the organizers. The meal was a time of laughter and connection as we bonded with youth from other churches, sharing stories and experiences from the morning.
Bringing Joy to the Elderly
In the afternoon, we visited a local senior care home for an outreach program. We sang hymns, shared testimonies, and spent time talking with the residents. Classics like “Because He Lives” and “Great Is Thy Faithfulness” filled the room, and many of the seniors joined in, their faces glowing with joy.
Vincent reflected, “At first, I was nervous, but seeing how much our visit meant to them reminded me that time and presence are some of the greatest gifts we can give.”
Closing with Worship and Gratitude
The day concluded with a special closing service, where participants shared their highlights and thanked God for the opportunity to serve. The message was clear: service shouldn’t end with Global Youth Day—it’s a way of life.
A Blessed and Unforgettable Experience
Global Youth Day 2025 was a powerful reminder that faith without works is dead (James 2:17). Through prayer, clean-ups, warm drinks, and fellowship with the elderly, we witnessed how small acts of love can transform a community.
We’re grateful to everyone who participated and the organizers who made this day possible. Let’s continue to seek opportunities to serve, not just on Global Youth Day, but every day!
“Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.” — Hebrews 13:16 (ESV)
#DFCCYouth #GlobalYouthDay #ACommunityTransformed
