International Young Adult Event
—We Are One, We Are Many

Have you ever wondered what it felt like to be one of Jesus’ disciples when they were asked to feed the 5,000 with only a few loaves and fishes? Just ask the staff of the International Young Adult Event. One-hundred fifty young adults were expected. More than 300 came. Simply put, there was not enough food to accommodate the gathering that was now twice its expected size. And if you have ever questioned whether this generation of young people can respond unselfishly (which I must humbly admit that I have)—don’t.

When presented with the pleasantly surprising food dilemma—although not quite of biblical proportion—the young adults responded. Old friends and new acquaintances gathered to consciously migrate into the community for an evening meal to assure there was enough food for those remaining. This overwhelming and sacrificial response set the tone for the rest of the event.

“We Are One, We Are Many”—this could not have been a more appropriate theme. We were many. We came from across the globe to meet, to share meals, to learn, to play, to dialogue, to worship, and to simply be together.

We spoke many languages—Spanish, French, Tahitian, Russian, Fijian, and Dutch, to name just a few. We came from diverse backgrounds. We dressed in many ways. And while we were a mosaic of cultural and life experiences, we came together to worship one God, one Son, and one Spirit, who was ever present. We were a community of Christ; we were one.

Engaging breakout sessions (small group classes) and dynamic worship services challenged us to be what we’ve always known ourselves to be—the church of today, not the church of tomorrow. Though varying in age from 18 to 35ish (we are all about inclusion), the young adults of the Community of Christ share a common, yet powerful vision: to faithfully honor the life of Jesus through our actions; to be the courageous witnesses our Lord has called us to be.

Consider the words of Stephen Veazey, president and prophet—no, not the ones that called us be a “donkey” for Jesus (don’t be afraid to ask for the full explanation—it’s a good one)—but the ones given to us at World Conference as inspired counsel and that now form Section 163:3a of the Doctrine and Covenants:

You are called to create pathways in the world for peace in Christ to be relationally and culturally incarnate. The hope of Zion is realized when the vision of Christ is embodied in communities of generosity, justice, and peacefulness.

I believe pathways of Christ’s peace were created. I believe the hope of Zion was realized. I believe such a community did exist. I believe that a mere 25 hours spent in such intentional fellowship gave all of us hope that it can and will happen again. And I will boldly and enthusiastically speak on behalf of Community of Christ young adults when I say that we look forward to sharing this courageous endeavor, this divine quest, with all of you.

—Erik Skoor reporting
Seattle, Washington, USA