News

Cavite, Philippines—From May 26–31, 2026, young people from across Asia and around the world gathered in Cavite, just outside Manila, for IYC 2026: VIRTUE. More than simply another youth conference, the event marked a historic milestone for the SDARM Youth Department as it inaugurated a new format for the International Youth Convention (IYC).

For the first time, IYC will rotate across continents, bringing together young people from around the world through a series of annual conventions. From 2026 to 2029, four gatherings on four continents will each explore a distinct biblical theme, encouraging participants to grow in their walk with Christ while strengthening the bonds of the worldwide church.

The inaugural convention centered on the theme VIRTUE, inspired by the apostle Peter’s exhortation:

“And beside this, giving all diligence, add to your faith virtue…” —2 Peter 1:5

In a world that continually pressures young people to compromise their convictions, the messages throughout the week challenged attendees to pursue lives marked by Christlike character, purity, courage, and spiritual strength. Rather than viewing virtue as an abstract ideal, speakers emphasized that it is a daily choice made through a living relationship with Jesus Christ.

Throughout the convention, lectures explored topics such as cultivating pure hearts and minds, Christian identity, relationships, family life, and overcoming personal struggles through the transforming power of God. Interactive workshops and breakout sessions allowed participants to examine these subjects more deeply, while live question-and-answer panels provided practical, biblically grounded counsel for everyday challenges.

Beyond the meeting hall, recreational activities created opportunities for meaningful fellowship among young people from different cultures and backgrounds. Friendships were formed, experiences were shared, and participants were reminded that they belong to a global family united by a common faith and mission.

Music also played a memorable role throughout the week. Choirs, orchestras, vocal ensembles, and instrumental groups from various parts of the world enriched the worship services with reverent and uplifting selections, creating an atmosphere that directed hearts toward Christ and added beauty to the gathering.

As the first convention in this new international series, VIRTUE established a clear foundation for the years ahead—not only calling young people to understand biblical virtue, but to live it intentionally in every aspect of life.

The journey now continues as the International Youth Convention moves to its next destination. Building upon the momentum of VIRTUE, the SDARM Youth Department looks forward to welcoming young people to IYC 2027 as this worldwide initiative continues to encourage a generation committed to faithfully following Christ.

Camp Cedar Falls, USA—What a tremendous blessing we experienced during our Southern California Conference Camp Meeting on June 19–21 at the beautiful Camp Cedar Falls in California!

Centered on the theme “The Final Echo: His Voice, Your Choice,” the weekend featured inspiring Bible studies on “The Hour of His Judgment”, “The Latter Rain”, “The Loud Cry”, and “The Close of Probation and the Second Coming”. These presentations strengthened our understanding of Bible prophecy and reminded us that we are living in the closing moments of earth’s history.

One of the greatest blessings was the presence of many young people who are participating in the Southern California canvassing project. This evangelistic outreach is being led by General Conference Youth Department Director, Brother Daniel Balbach, with the dedicated support of local Brethren Jackson Zamy, Aldair Guerrera, Jordan Chapman, and Sister Tatiana Palamarchuk, along with Sister Daisy Alonso, who faithfully coordinated the kitchen ministry. We are also deeply grateful to the many volunteers and members from our local churches whose prayers, hospitality, meals, transportation, and practical support made this project possible. Your spirit of sacrifice has helped advance God’s work.

Join us next Sabbath, July 4, as we continue celebrating God’s blessings with Sabbath School, morning service, and a special concert for the afternoon program.

Beaumont Church
890 E. 8th St.
Beaumont, CA 92223

As our canvassing program continues through July 5, we kindly ask you to keep our young people, Bible workers, and all those serving in your prayers. Pray that the Holy Spirit will open doors, prepare hearts, and lead many precious souls to Christ.

“The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.” Matthew 9:37–38

Plymouth, USA—This year’s NCC Vacation Bible School took children on an amazing journey with the theme, “Are We There Yet? A Road Trip to Heaven.” Throughout the week, the church was transformed into a road trip adventure where every activity, song, game, and craft pointed children toward their ultimate destination: our heavenly home!

Each day explored a different stop along the journey of faith. The week began with “The Keys to Salvation,” where children discovered that salvation is God’s free gift through Jesus Christ and learned to place their trust in Him. They then continued to “Jesus Is the Way,” learning that following Jesus means not only hearing His Word but living it through cheerful obedience.

On day three, the children encountered “Road Work Ahead,” a reminder that God is continually shaping and preparing each of us, just like the construction crews work on the road! During “Heavenly Car Wash,” they learned that Jesus wants to clean our hearts, and create in us a new spirit through His forgiving love. Finally, the journey concluded with “Welcome Home,” as children looked forward to the joy of heaven and reflected on lives filled with gratitude for God’s goodness.

The road trip theme came to life through interactive games, crafts, daily theme songs and Bible verses, and engaging Bible lessons. Each day also emphasized an important “Fuel for Faith” character traits—trust, obedience, patience, repentance, and gratitude—giving children practical ways to grow in their walk with Jesus!

Every day we also sang a special song composed by Brother Wallivanisson Sudaro from the Orangevale Church with Lyrics by Sister Nancy Fountain, the principal of Whispering Pines Christian School. You can listen to this song, titled “Are We There Already,” as well as see some clips from our VBS program below: 

Vacation Bible School would not have been possible without the dedication of our workers, teachers, volunteers, parents, and youth who gave countless hours to prepare decorations, lead activities, teach lessons, and care for every child. We praise God for a wonderful week of learning and spiritual growth, and we pray that the seeds planted in each young heart will continue to grow as they travel life’s road with Jesus leading the way!