Youth Congress Live

formspring.me

2011-09-19T02:21:00.005-05:00

Ask me anything http://formspring.me/TheRyanBarton

Do you believe in God?

2011-09-19T02:21:00.003-05:00

Absolutely. I love him, and he has helped me through life.

Ask me anything

What's the secret to happiness?

2011-09-19T02:21:00.001-05:00

Live. Be Kind. Love. Laugh. Become more than you ever expected.

Ask me anything

NAYC 2011 Videos

2011-08-08T22:04:00.001-05:00

Check out all the NAYC 2011 video clips in Columbus, OH on YouTube!

"WE ARE . . . "

"GIANTS!"

NAYC: DVDs and CDs

2009-09-11T14:46:00.002-05:00

Looking to feast on all the great services from NAYC?

Order DVDs and CDs from the 2009 North American Youth Congress online right here.

NAYC: Tackling the Devil

2009-08-23T21:59:00.003-05:00

We dug this dramatized song up from our files. It's from Thursday night's service, August 6, 2009.

NAYC: My Kingdom for Some Sleep!

2009-08-18T11:04:00.000-05:00

This picture was taken toward the end of "8," the dynamic 20somethings event, but it pretty well summarizes how we all felt (and still feel) after the blitz of North American Youth Congress.

I can hardly wait until 2011!

NAYC: Friday Pre-Service Video

2009-08-17T21:40:00.003-05:00

Here's a snippet of the crowd just before service began on Friday night.

NAYC: PMA Girls, Booths

2009-08-12T00:24:00.004-05:00

The Pentecostal Music Association female constestants.

Booths on Friday evening.

NAYC: Your Blogging Team

2009-08-12T00:21:00.004-05:00

Your NAYC blogging team 2009:
Kent d Curry, Shohna Neumann, Ryan Barton, Ryan O'Neil, Joel Riley, Ben Cohen

Your NAYC blogging team 2009:
Ben Cohen, Joel Riley, Sarah Holland, Kent d Curry

Gone, but not forgotten: Justin Herring

NAYC Friday: VIP Lounge Vid

2009-08-12T00:00:00.004-05:00

Every year there's a VIP Lounge for the speakers, musicians, attending Youth Presidents, and prominent speaker. Here's a glimpse into the Lounge shortly before service began Friday night.

NAYC: More Photos (kdc)

2009-08-11T23:39:00.006-05:00

Wednesday night in the Renaissance Hotel lobby, before service.

Hair thingees were a big deal this year. It wasn't usually bows, but other thingees. It was a regular occurrence the entire time, but . . . it's hard to get just pictures of small hair accessories, so our photos were limited.
(Yes, I'm about the world's worst fashion reporter, but I recognize trends even without the proper vocabulary!)

So a Wisconsin couple spent two weeks of free time to create these one-of-a-kind, completely duct tape church outfits. As you can imagine, they were the smash hit of the Wednesday night hallway.

Long dresses were very much in evidence. This is a picture from Wednesday night I somehow overlooked.

NAYC: Our Super Bowl of Worship

2009-08-11T00:48:00.006-05:00

From ninetyandnine.com's cover:

"Whether or not this was the “greatest Youth Congress ever” will always be a matter of individual choice. What is beyond dispute, by rookies and veterans alike, is that God chooses to move differently from one Congress to the next, yet his kindness is everlasting, his goodness lasts from generation to generation. What is one person’s disappointment is another’s highlight. Whatever your previous experience, no one can deny that every Youth Congress is an exceptional time of visitation with the Almighty. Youth Congress 2009 just kept that winning streak alive."

Share your Youth Congress thoughts with us now!

Coming Soon!

2009-08-10T12:18:00.005-05:00

Several Youth Congress speakers have graciously agreed to share their presentations of inspiring testimonies and cultural analysis with us. We'll be posting those soon.

Also, expect an exclusive interview with Heidi Urshan on the outreach efforts of Project 22:39. God moved, so we'll get the details!

Got Youth Congress Pictures?

2009-08-10T12:13:00.003-05:00

We want your Youth Congress pictures and links to pictures and vids!

If you know of anyone who snapped shots or shot video of the event, send us that information so we can highlight how God moved where you were in Nashville.

Email us now!

NAYC Friday: Beyond the Drift! (Video Version 2)

2009-08-09T20:55:00.001-05:00

I've been trying to upload these since Friday night. See the first three segments here, before watching this one.

Update: Alas, the 4th clip of 5 will not load. I've tried since Friday, on 2 different networks, literally for hours, without any luck. It is not to be. Hopefully, I can get a different clip up on Monday.

The party just doesn't stop...

2009-08-09T11:45:00.003-05:00

A few years ago my little sister went on a three week trip to Greece where teenagers from all around the world arrived and mingled to develop international bonds...My sister said the last night of the trip was one of the saddest moments of her life as she had found new best friends, and just as quick as she had found them, she was saying good bye. Those people she met are still her best friends (one of them who is from Israel stayed at my house just last week).....I say all of this to say...

Congress is unique for how short it is....you're not around people long enough to have to track them down to give them a full formal goodbye and departing hug...and when you do say the goodbye, there is not necessarily a heartbreak full of emotion as when you say goodbye after a road trip or a summer camp...Essentially we aren't given long enough time to develop a deep inner-spiritual connection that will last for years to come. So socially, I do believe youth congress is too short....on the other hand, spiritually, one comes away heavy and motivated to go back home and get things done at their church..There is church and HG (holy ghost for those are not up to speed with Apostolic Pentecostal lingo) a plenty, and I argue that if there is any place for a heartbreak upon departure it is heartbreak from the "God-drenched" services that changed us all. Back to reality....

So anyways, my post-congress journey was strange in that me and my peers had a softball tourney the day after congress, which meant I had to take the nine hour car ride home through the night in order to be at our 10 AM game the next morning....The journey was tough as one could expect, but I was able to log 6 hours of the driving, and my friend, Justin, logged the last three hours or so...and he also took this picture when I passed out (not my best moment to say the least, but I have seen worse)...

But the true disappointment came when we arrived in Michigan and the softball tournament was rained out...

So now as I type this I am waiting for my friends to pick me up to go to St. Louis for a short-term class at Urshan Graduate School of Theology....I'm looking forward to it....

Home, Bittersweet Home (ben)

2009-08-09T00:19:00.004-05:00

I really am too old for Youth Congress. I'm very much glad to be home--to return to the normal, and avoid the more chaotic. On the other hand, it is nice to get away, leaving worries and cares all behind for a period of time--the problem is that everything that had to be done prior to the trip still needs to be done, not to mention everything that's accumulated during the week. This is, I suppose, the normal conundrum of the busy individual, attempting to take vacation. In any case, I'm home, and already looking at a stack of mail with notes scribbled all over the envelopes (pet peeve of mine).

The drive took about 14 hours (note that the trip odometer resets at 999.9, so I actually drove 1653.8 miles this week); I'm quite exhausted, however the amount of caffeine I've ingested over that period of time dictates that my body may not sleep, so here I am blogging about it. Over 14 hours, I had a little bit of time to reflect on Congress, I've come to a few conclusions that I'd like to discuss, but am not quite lucid enough at the moment to do so--I'll be posting these thoughts in the upcoming days. In the mean time...I've got a few bugs to clean off of the car...which was pristine when I left...

NAYC: The Morning After (kdc)

2009-08-08T20:43:00.004-05:00

We need to coin a phrase for how Pentecostals look the Saturday morning after Youth Service.

Everyone's dancing on the inside, but on the outside . . . well, our eyes are sealed shut, our faces are pasty, our hair a bit disheveled, our language inert . . .

At the Renaisance Hotel, I saw one of our teen girls determinedly pull and pull and pull on one side of a "push" double door. The kicker being, the door's partner was wide open; but she wasn't going to use it.

Like I said, we need to coin a phrase . . .

NAYC Over and Out [sen]

2009-08-08T19:05:00.005-05:00

North American Youth Congress has officially ended. The youth group van for Atlanta West Pentecostal Church pulled into the church driveway at 5:00 pm and we all thankfully stumbled out. [Note: We have officially (excuse me while I use that twice in one paragraph) been running on five hours of sleep or less since Tuesday night, when we left at 4:00 am in the morning.]

Afterburner
Working my way backwards, the afterburner on Friday night was a blast. My youth group had vacillated on going at all, for though we had bought the tickets for $5 [and were not about to waste our good five bucks], church had ended really late and it was already 11:30 pm. The afterburner ended at 2 am. We decided to rush back the hotel, Pastor Chad decreed a 5-minute grace period for changing clothes, and BREAK! We split. Upstairs, downstairs, into the van, screeching on two wheels [just kidding] into the mall parking lot.

It was a blast. I had the most fun ever. It was so crazy to know that an entire section of a real mall was being overloaded by 6,000 Pentecostals only -- for an entire night! The roar was incredible, honestly, but I never felt threatened even if I was by myself, because everyone was so nice [and looked just like me!]. I was deeply unsurprised to observe dozens upon dozens of Apostolic young women make a beeline straight for a store that looked to contain like to thousands of pairs of shoes. Not only that, but several bands, including Ryan Johns [woo hoo!] and CLC's Encounter [woo hoo!] rocked the mall. They sounded so good; I was so proud of the talent and ability with which God has gifted His people.

Friday Service
Earlier in the evening, Brother Wayne Francis had chuhch. To put it simply, we loved it. His "Beyond the Drift" message to the young people of the Apostolic movement had the crowd on its feet for dozens of minutes at a time. Quotes from his sermon are stirring: "We gather at NAYC to celebrate and commemorate our Apostolicism. We're united by the Holy Ghost from when the church skyrocketed into prominence from the upper room. Then came Azuza Street. The question for us 21st-century Pentecostals is, Where do we go from here? Do we only celebrate the monument of past conferences, or do we blaze new tracks and pioneer in the Holy Ghost?"

[Here's more if you're a Wayne Francis fan kid like me: "Mediocrity comes right after you skyrocket away. When you're not actually sure what your mission is. When you have an absence of passion in your worship and prayer and dedication." Or how about this one: "Risk-Free Trial Bibles. That's what we want, a risk-free relationship with God, one that requires no payment and a multitude of gifts. If you stay in the boat, you'll never know if Jesus can keep you afloat! ... Get out of your boat. Say: I'm tired of regular, predictable, dry Pentecost. I want miracles, anointing, power! ... Give me JESUS; give me anointing! I want to go beyond the drift! If you hear Jesus calling you now, you better get out the boat and walk on surfaces that'll blow the human mind."]

After Brother Francis let us go, the place which had established a feeling of a contained supernova just more or less exploded. Praise and worship led us into a deep, stirring Presence of Jesus Christ. We began to realize the weight of the task and the burden and the gifts that God has given this generation. WE are the church. We are soul winners and musicians and doctors and witnesses! You could recognize our recognizing by the way we lingered for countless minutes in the altars. We wept and travailed and praised with sincerity. Youth Congress ain't playin no games.

Further Notes:

It was at turns funny and frustrating to see the amount of people who turned away to see their faces on camera. For a certain amount of time before service, the camera would pan around on the audience at various people to keep us entertained. Boy, were we ever. I felt an "Aw, come on, man" spirit come on me as girls, mainly, hid their face from the camera until it was gone. The cutest vids were when couples kissed or when little kids saw themselves and waved or smiled delightedly.
You would not believe how hard it was to get paper towels out of the paper dispensers in the bathrooms.
During the last day session, they had an IBC bluegrass group come up, and they did a great job. But some of the audience really stole the show when they began to do-sey-do on the floor. -> Someone made the comment, "A little more cowbell [would have been nice]" and I thought that was just the icing on the cake.
There was also a Latino group who played right after the bluegrass. To put it lightly, we were in awe. They were soooo good on the guitars and, frankly, my jaw just went slack. "Wow" describes it best. One man kept the beat, the woman in the middle did some complicated numbers, and the man on the far right worked finger movements so fast that you couldn't really see what he was doing. It was amazing! I vote for them!
Tim Ruttledge [TM] "You just can't fix stupid. Ignorance doesn't know any better, but stupid knows better and does it anyway."
You would also not believe the amount of people slain in the Spirit after Friday night's service. They were everywhere: in the arena hallways, around the Bible college and whatever else booths, stumbling down the sidewalks, lying on the sidewalks. I counted dozens of people being carried, lying weeping on the ground, stumbling with their hands over their friends' shoulders. My friends and I were all commenting that the people on the sidewalks must think we're drunk, crazy, or both. It brought to mind Luke Levine's sermon, "We're Drunk, But Not Like You Think!" I wanted to say to the passerby-ers, "These men are not drunk as ye suppose!" I was deeply impressed with the Lord. We serve a mighty God!

NAYC: Behind the Scenes

2009-08-08T12:10:00.000-05:00

All those great video feeds, the angles of the shots, and the types of shots all occur because of the choices made by video czar Matt Dugas in his secret underground bunker. 90&9 was given an exclusive, secret view of this operation because they accidentally left the door open.

Behold, the Wizard of Youth Congress!

NAYC: Hairdos (Part 2) (kdc)

2009-08-08T11:06:00.000-05:00

From Friday night's service. Fashion choices were subdued for the most part. Evidently, Wednesday night was the great coming out party and most people weren't interested in making statements after that.

The Best Youth Congress Ever (rao)

2009-08-08T01:56:00.001-05:00

As the night begins to leave us, I can't help but to think over the last week about NABQT and NAYC. In this blogger's opinion, the last few days have consisted of the best youth congress ever. Well, aside from the one in 1981 where my parents met (a tradition which I don't think I'll be carrying on). I have thoroughly enjoyed the fellowship, but more importantly, God's presence and word.
As a very conservative minister, there are times which I worry about events such as this. Recently, I went to a very conservative youth conference and had a wonderful time of fellowship with other Bible believing young people. However, whilst I enjoyed being with youth who almost all dressed modestly, I still enjoyed congress better. Why? Because the same things were preached (kudos to the Coltharps and Bro Huntley for awesome messaged reaffirming to youth what we stand for), but here there was an anointing and a love that accompanied the preaching (eph 4:15).

I am so glad to be a part of NAYC this year! Every service was worth going to and getting the DVD to take home. It's too late for me to be up, so I'm out!

-- Post From My iPhone

NABQT Banquet Entertainment (ben)

2009-08-08T01:20:00.000-05:00

My apologies for not posting this earlier, but I've been quite busy with Congress, so I've been delayed...

After NABQT in 2006, we were waiting to leave for the airport while GYD was setting up for the Commune-ity meeting. I mentioned to Russ Faubert in passing that the entertainment at the previous evening's banquet had been horrible (some comedian). I suggested, instead, that we return to banquet entertainment provided by the Fauberts (circa 2002). I didn't realize that Todd Gaddy was within earshot, but noticed at the end, and shot him an email afterward explaining that I was not trying to be critical, just attempting to let them know that the kids enjoyed it not at all. So I take credit for the hilarious entertainment being run by the Fauberts. Since they've taken over, the entertainment has become the major draw of the banquet.

THE SON OF Voice Infrequency Modulation

The FOUL Judge; I don't know that the real foul judge actually pays attention, as he is usually sending SNIDE TEXT MESSAGES to select individuals.

Demonstrating his Voice Impairment Society of America card...

Even the big-wigs were amused...

Voice Infrequency Modulation rears its ugly head...

NAYC Friday Service

2009-08-08T01:10:00.008-05:00

The Friday Night Service Report:

You can purchase CDs ($10) or DVDs ($20) for the NAYC services from Media Missions. She's gonna kill me, but you can email your requests here.
I'm told registration was over 12,000 people, which is comparable to Charlotte in 2007.
How the local newspaper sees us.

Congrats to the 3 Apostolic Talent Search Groups: Encounter of Stockton, CA was the group winner, Ashley Wicker (?) from North Carolina, and Kelton in the guy's group. Sorry for the sketchy info. Someone help me out here!
Congrats to the heroic group of about 60 teens who counted ballots frantically in small hot rooms behind the stage to make sure the winners could be announced at the start of service.

We're going to have an in-depth interview about Project 22:39 with coordinator Heidi Urshan (see picture) next week at ninetyandnine.com. The postive reports were overwhelming, with over 450 people involved in afternoon witnessing and aid events.

The Afterburner Mall event sold 6,000 tickets. Most people changed clothes after service to before leaving. It took me 6 minutes (it doesn't sound very long, but try it sometime) to get an elevator and then we had 15 people crammed into it.

The MK (Missionary Kid) booth was a raging success. More on that in one of our regular issues of ninetyandnine.

Doors opened at 6 p.m.
The floor was full at 6:08 p.m.
The lower tier was full by 6:40 p.m.
There were more people in the hallways until the preaching started, then the emptied again. There were around 17,000 people there. (Again, no one was in the box seats. There are 30 x 12 seats each.) IMHO, it wasn't much larger than Thursday night. Perhaps the locals were scared from attending due to sell-out expectations?
A reliable source told me that an adult woman had a heart attack during the preaching, but was doing okay.

NAYC Friday: Outfits

2009-08-08T00:52:00.001-05:00

Secret is Out! NAYC 2011 & 2013 Revealed! (kdc)

2009-08-07T23:59:00.008-05:00

Although this wasn’t announced in the final service, as it often is, 90&9 has been told by a reliable source that Youth Congress 2011 will be in Columbus, Ohio, and Youth Congress 2013 will be in Louisville on August 3-9!

Our sources are the Louisville Courier-Journal and the Louisville Mayor's office.

Special thanks to alert reader Eric for the links!

NAYC Friday: "Beyond the Drift"

2009-08-07T23:29:00.003-05:00

The General Youth Division's Director of Promotions, Bro. Wayne Francis, ended the final night of the North American Youth Congress with a bang by preaching on "Beyond the Drift."

NAYC Friday: Beyond the Drift! (Video Version)

2009-08-07T23:28:00.007-05:00

Bro. Wayne Francis preached a spectacular message entitled "Beyond the Drift." It was inspiring, practical, applicable to real life, and, most importantly, biblical!

Multiple Video Clips to follow.

He preached, "I'm tired of predictable church! I want more! Give me Jesus!"

He implored the youth to create, not imitate, to stop being afraid.

It appears that everything was covered -- I was told by 2 sources that he did the moonwalk 3 times.

NAYC Friday: Happy Birthday Sis. Mann!

2009-08-07T23:15:00.005-05:00

General Youth Secretary Daryle Williams surprised Sis. Bridgette Mann with a birthday cake mid-service Friday night. This is the type of moment that only occurs at NAYC, and it never breaks the move of the Spirit.

NAYC Friday: Honoring Wayne Francis (and Classy!)

2009-08-07T23:08:00.004-05:00

Mid-service, for his next moment, General Youth President Shay Mann called on the arena to express great discipline in not making any noise until asked. He ended up quelling a couple of noise rebellions before it was over, but he called Wayne and "Classy" Francis up to the platform.

Then he explained that they have decided to start a church in White Plains, NY after 5 years with the Youth Division. An especially brave act considering many churches would be thrilled to have them as pastors.

He asked how many people in the arena of about 17,000 people had heard Bro. Francis preach. An incredible percentage stood. He sat them down.

Finally, he said we should honor them, counted to 3, and this was the overwhelming result.

UPDATE: Friday Evening

2009-08-07T20:19:00.001-05:00

My prayers and my blogs have come up for a memorial before the ushering staff. Ushers arrived bearing offering buckets by the dozens. Much appreciated.

-- iPhoned in

Friday Evening Update

2009-08-07T20:13:00.001-05:00

What happened to the offering? I think ushers just skipped my whole section. Gotta be 150 people that were missed...

-- iPhoned in

Friday Evening Thought

2009-08-07T19:33:00.001-05:00

Why are there praise songs about praise? So meta...

-- iPhoned in

I came, I saw, I blogged... (JDR)

2009-08-07T18:48:00.004-05:00

I will in all likely hood be departing mid-service to take a through the night drive back up to the roving hills of Michigan, so unless something striking occurs from now until I depart, this will most likely be my last blog....

10:25-Message w/Nate Binion (who is a home-missions pastor in Austin, TX) in the Young Adults split-session service: "The space between my experience and my calling."

-Bro. Binion's message is my favorite message to date at this congress.... He spoke an abundantly relevant message to the 20 somethings audience (to which I consider myself a citizen of such a demographic). Favorite points-

Our generation has all the knowledge but no wisdom.
We as a generation spend too long longing for the camp and congress moments of our teenage years (You know those moments, when we find ourself in a magestrial spiritual state for dozens of minutes on end soaked in tears and convictions, and much repentance). But the problem is that while we long for those moments, God never intends for us to go back to those moments or seeking such moments. When we endeavor for these ultra-spiritual moments where we simply delaying our ministry, because we are of age to start doing (and not simply of the teenage age where we start seeking).
We as a generation pay large monetary sums to travel across the country to go to congress and evangelical teaching conferences, but those neighbors and co-workers back home will continue to go unwitnessed to upon our return.....
If you want to see change, just do it. Stop complaining about all the things going on and start acting.

1:05 PM-What does congress mean for people trying to network and find friends? I would argue that it is not much...but rather congress' main objective socially is the confirm to 16,000 young people that they wer simply not alone. Let me me explain:

As I began to inquire last night, and

continued to discusse matters today with folks, I realized that people simply are not moving out of their immediate social circles. People talk with their friends and at most friends of their friends. Wherein, meeting these friends of friends, the talk is minimal and more introductory and unintrusive in their conversation. Sure there are those determined to network, but in general I would propose that these networkers are the exception to the rule...Well except those

male and females engaged in the art of trying to find their future spouse which brings me to...

1:17-I am realizing that all female pursuers can be summed into two categories: The Overly-Passive, and the overly-aggressive.

Overly-Aggressive-Those who chase with all intent to be either rudely rejected or quickly accepted by their target (most of the time the former results). Their agrressive overtunes in conversation with those of the opposite gender usually center around a cheesy pick-up line such as "Did you just fart, because you're blowing me away?" or by a quick insult as if we are in third grade and the apparently best method to get the girl is to pretend that you are superior to the girl. Surprisingly this seems to have a better success rate than one would anticipate.

Passive-Agressive- These people quickly ally themself in the "just friends" category. They enter into prospective relationship with little premonition to want to date the girl (or so they say). These guys are all too excited to laugh at their new friend's jokes and take an over-interes

t in the things that interest the new friend.

6:47-I begin to type this blog in the lounge of the hotel (pictured right), and am awestruck by how empy it is before service (note that the picture to the right is not current but was taken last night...the seats and couches pictured are all empty) . I should have noted something was up when I went to hit the button to come down in the elevator and the wait for the elevator was almost none, which has primarilty not been the case for the majority of the trip. Being the last night, I was not sure if this meant everyone was running really late because they were trying to do their hair super pretty for this climactic evening, or because everyone rushed to the stadium super early in anticipation of a packed-house.

7:17 Suspicions are confirmed that everyone had left early to the stadium. Apparentely over 45 minutes before service-time the lower bowl of the stadium was full, and the top tier was already a quarter-filled.

7:20-The aforementioned fact gets me excited for tonight's service. While the last service is the service that brings out everyone's best outfits and costumes, the spritual antipation is also at it's high-mark of congress...No one really knows what is to come, but they know whatever that thing is, it will most likely be life-changing. Now the bigger question is, does the service itself bring the high-spiritual results or is it the anticipation and expectation of what is to come cause that causethe spiritual move?

NAYC: Hairdos (Part 1) (kdc)

2009-08-07T17:36:00.005-05:00

Hairdo selections from Wednesday and Thursday.

NAYC: Friday (kdc)

2009-08-07T17:18:00.002-05:00

We've got people covering Project 22:39, so the lack of posts this afternoon is because that's where many of us are.

Awoke with bloodshot eyes, and -- judging by those zombies staggering toward the arena -- I wasn't the only one.
Internal security tells us that there have been no serious incidents -- just kid stuff -- these last 2 nights. As they noticed, '99% of the kids can be good, but 1% of 16,000 is still 160 troublemakers.
Jump Start is the (feels like early) morning session displaying a variety of non-traditional talents among our Apostolic youth, as well as some great fun. There was a giveaway for the first few people who could race up to the stage and prove they had a hole in their sock, as well as a contest to see who came from the strangest named town. If we heard correctly, "Cut and Shoot" Texas won.
This morning's session also featured a bluegrass band and a trio of (forgive my lack of correct terminology) Spanish guitarists that were phenomenal.

Friday - Young Adults (ben)

2009-08-07T12:15:00.001-05:00

Nate Binion preached a good message this morning. I didn't expect him to preach during a session (the audio was also poor) but the message of seeking after a calling during the missing years of young adulthood is absolutely necessary. Even if we don't "get" a calling immediately, as we seek after God and trust him as he asks us to paint a dot on the portrait of our lives, we'll later come to find out that God is creating an amazing picture with our lives.

One thing that I've thought has been missing from this Congress is defining alter calls. While we didn't have time for this, we were called to dedicate ourselves to a calling in God.

Compelling. We need more sessions like this.
-- iPhoned in

NAYC: Why Youth Congress Matters (kdc)

2009-08-07T03:02:00.009-05:00

So this is why Youth Congress matters. Well after service ended, the hallways still clotted with people, a young man carried a young woman over his shoulder as she stammered drunk with tongues, her hands scissoring behind him, oblivious to her situation.

And now I have my very favorite memory of Youth Congress 2009. Watch this and it'll be yours too.

Thursday Night (kdc)

2009-08-07T02:46:00.002-05:00

We were welcomed to the Sommet Center this evening with a string of (real?) homeless men holding signs. I thought it must be related to Project 22:39 tomorrow, but evidently not - one of the men cussed at us. So it's a mystery!

8: Clean Up

2009-08-07T02:43:00.002-05:00

Notes of obscurity: Thursday Night

2009-08-07T02:13:00.008-05:00

6:42-As me and a peer walk up to stadium, we are greeted by the site of the picture to the left. The image amounts to around 15 individuals who are made to appear to be homeless or at the very least poor (my speculation is that these were genuinely homeless people). Some people were taking it as a literal protest of the UPCers but as one surveyed, it seemed to become clear that this is the work of Project 22:39 or some similar program to stress the need that we need to pay attention to the poor as human beings and assist them accordingly (some of the signs: "Do you think I have a soul?" "Do I have the wrong color?" and "Will you walk past me?")...it was definitely a gut check to myself.

8:27-One of the biggest snafus in my mind of congress set up was the mistaken scaffolding placement of the lights.....as you can probably make out in the picture below (h

opefully), the scaffoldings directly surrounded the big screens that displayed all the videos that played throughout the services. Imagine trying to watch a movie with a thick textbook book levitating horizontally three inches in front of the televis

ion screen. Literally the only people who could make out what was on the big screens were those nearest the stage who were positioned between the scaffoldings and the screens. And at this point these people were so close to the stage, that there was no need to look at the screen.

8:47-Notes on the sermon by Bro.Wayne Huntley-Essentially in short,

Bro. Huntley's message can be summed up as "It's alright to be different." In this impacting message he constantly suggested the necessity of stepping out and being different to make a change. While differences from the world were included, differences from t

he "professional pentecostalism" of the monotony of religion were primarily focused on. Bro. Huntley, in spite of his maturation in age, preached like a 25 year old. Essentially in relation to tonight's message, the necessity of "Apostolic Activism" is the call of our generation for this time...And the audience in majority accepted this challenge.

11:23 -Witness a 13 year old young man steal a 15 year old female's claim to "never been kissed." Literally the male asked for a kiss on the cheek an

d then deceptively turned his head to make the kiss face-to-face...It was an awkward but memorable moment for all.

12:27-Weird fashion trend gaining steem: Odd-shaped, thick-framed glasses.

1:32 AM-Girl relays that the new way to pick up potential spouses is to find out a person's name and then continue pursuit by locating that person as a friend on facebook. Literally all such romantic pursuits are moving toward the virtual and away from the face-to-face personal relating that can be so telling. As one who is openly nervous and bashful around potential future wives, I am more than happy to welcome this trend into our

movement.

And for those of you who miss the obnoxious crowds that gather at the completion of a service, here is a taste:

Below is an interview I did with Bro. Kenneth Haney, our General Supt. I was kinda nervous. My apologies.

Counting the Talent Search Ballots (kdc)

2009-08-07T02:01:00.004-05:00

A quick trip to the hospitality room during Thursday service revealed a crew of overwhelmed people trying to sort over 5,000 votes cast for the winner of the Pentecostal Music Association's Talent Search.

See that box at the bottom left? That's full of ballots. If you have a few extra days, perhaps you can help them out....

8: The Finale

2009-08-07T00:45:00.004-05:00

They just completed the event by shoot $1 bills into the audience, then $25 gift cards that you would have thought were $1,000 gift cards, the way the winners squealed.

Saw some 20somethings w/earplugs in.

They're thinking they sold about 1,000 tickets which is impressive.

Some . . . kook (?) just tried to hijack the end of the event by screaming from the back balcony about tonight's service message and something else. It wasn't especially coherent, so they turned up the background music and talked him away. Funny how people w/burning messages that must be shared aren't willing to put in the hard work of planning and execution.

Hyphen reps went around with laptops getting everyone to join their new Facebook Group: Hyphen Young Adults. Go do that.

I'm told the upstairs area is maxed out w/people talking.

Good times.

And the band jams on . . .

Eight (8) rao

2009-08-07T00:32:00.001-05:00

I'm here at 8 in Rocketown! It's going pretty great. Love it way better than last year. I'm having fun hanging out with some amazing Arkansas people (hannah, Erica, and ben and grant who isn't pictured) (seen below):

Listening to some Ryan Johns

And Jonathan Dean

So I saw this very cute girl selling t-shirts in the lobby of the Sommet center and was really wishing I had gone to talk, then voilà: she was her. I decided to use my amazing pick up techniques and my broken collar bone (no girl can resist it :-p) as a way to introduce myself and get to know her. It went good for like 8 seconds. Then another guy comes up she didnt know who was ushering at NAYC (and subsequently kicked her our of her seat) and I was completely a third wheel. Ever confident, I figured: I can still pull this out. I tried to throw in humorous remarks into their conversation and every so often groan and reach for my collar bone. It wasn't working. She was set in her mind. But then...she turned to me and very seductively said,"can you take our picture?" I was defeated. I took my cue and left. Plenty of other great people to hang out with. Great time!

-- Post From My iPhone

8: Johnathan Dean

2009-08-07T00:28:00.005-05:00

After Hyphen Director Nate Binion introduced Hyphen, the new young adults ministry of the UPCI, Johnathan Dean took the stage for a rousing set.

Great, tight music so far!

You know the drill, vid to follow...

8: Ryan Johns Experience

2009-08-07T00:00:00.002-05:00

Ryan Johns is deep into his set now. With a new album due by early September (see ryanjohnsmusic.com), he's previewing new songs to some strong acclaim.

For both bands, with Johnathan Dean to follow, the music is loud w/out preventing plenty of conversation and the crowd singing back simultaneously.

Of course, the food disappeared almost immediately, but that was to be expected.

NAYC: Thursday Night (kdc)

2009-08-06T23:32:00.004-05:00

Wayne Huntley

Representative Hairbow

More ABI Shenanigans

Between sets of music at 8, here some quick thoughts:

Great service with a crushing altar call at the end.

No fashion news specific to tonight. I'm guessing everyone brought out their usual Sunday outfits with tomorrow night being the grand finale.

I hate to be a buzzkill (did I just date myself with that phrase?) but the quoted "18,000 in attendance" had to be exaggerated. While the Sommet Center was packed to the top, there were at least 30 empty box seats (10 seats per) and the top edges were empty on all sides. If the Center holds 20,000 people in this configuration, then we're at over 16,000, but not close to 18,000. 16,000+ is still incredibly impressive for a Thursday night.

There were more youth leaders in the hallways, checking out the booths, this evening, but the halls were still incredibly vacant. What a rousing testimony to the heart of our youth!

And while we're at it, let's not deceive ourselves. NAYC doesn't claim to solve every spiritual problem or be the only spiritual highlight necessary for a successful Christian life. It's there to inspire teens toward greatness, ground them in solid teaching, and prove to them there are thousands of supercharged Apostolic youth willing to sacrifice for the kingdom of God. So if there are fun superficial moments, that doesn't diminish the overall move of God. It's not the point of the event, but neither does it undermine it. It's just another memory.

A dramatized song during service

8: Underway

2009-08-06T23:19:00.004-05:00

Kyle Elkins and the Experience, the first band from Murphysburo, TN, just completed their first song, and are now leading a public prayer with everyone. The place is packed. Supposed to hold 800, but that's hard to believe. Still, the venue is perfect for concerts/presentations like this.

Though the crowd is overwhelmingly 20something, notable guests include Bros. Ron Becton, Darryl Johns, and Mike Williams.

Sorry, but the video quality is awful on this one. It doesn't do the band justice at all, so I can't post it.

8: Cre8ing for 20somethings

2009-08-06T22:54:00.005-05:00

So, I went from Wayne Huntley rocking the house in tonight's message to "8" here at Rocketown in Nashville, owned by one Michael W. Smith who named it after his album of the same name.

The program looks dynamic, with a host of 20somethings and above crowding to the floor. (Also a few teens who seem to have eluded staffers, but I won't turn you in Cassie!)

More soon!

NAYC Night 2 (ben)

2009-08-06T19:34:00.001-05:00

"Guess what? Youth Congress isn't for posers.". Not sure how true that is...

Below: 2000 young people realizing that their phones shine in the dark.

-- iPhoned in

NABQT Experiended Awards (ben)

2009-08-06T19:14:00.009-05:00

1) Toledo, Ohio

2) Pearland, Texas
3) Lufkin, Texas
4) Denham Springs, Louisiana
5) Raleigh, North Carolina
6) Oregon City, Oregon
7) Henry, Illinois
8) Concord, California
9) Hazelwood, Missouri
10) Alto, Texas
11) Manteca, California
12) Jacksonville, Florida

Individual Awards:

1) Marissa Patrisso (Ohio 1) 116.0
2) Ben Aguinaga (South Texas 1) 106.42
3) Nathaniel DeLeon (Maine 1) 156.25
4) Devlin Chance (North Carolina 1) 124.16
5) Lauren Simpson (Southern California 1) 121.25
6) Rosie Moon (Oklahoma 1) 120.00
7) Christina Gay (Texas 2) 118.75

Coach of the Year: Lisa Patrisso (Ohio 1)
First Runner up: Danny Barba (Western 1)
Second Runner up: Jesse Nash (Texas 1)
Third Runner up: Joe and Dawnella Higgins (Oregon 1)
Fourth Runner up: Jim and Janice Elkins (Western 2)

Quizzer of the Year: Ben Aguinaga (South Texas 1)
First Runner up: Lauren Matthews (Louisiana 1)
Second Runner up: Santino Simental (Western 1)
Third Runner up: Marissa Patrisso (Ohio 1)
Fourth Runner up: Jared Youngblood (Texas 1)

Day 2-The Calm before the Storm (JDR)

2009-08-06T17:01:00.004-05:00

As everything leads up to the Friday Night service the mood on Thursday Morning/Afternoon is generally somber...with that in mind....

9:08-As my alarm goes off, I join the ranks of what is doubtlessly a platoon of young people who become embittered at having to be at church at 9:30 AM in considerations that a vast majority of us probably did not go to bed earlier than 2 AM the night previous. O Fortuna!

I swear there is a conspiracy theory to be found here where some administrators at large want to wake the zombie children at 9 AM to keep them in a maintainable consciousness throughout the day....if these children were allowed to roam the streets of Nashville in full force by waking up at 11 AM instead of 9, we may end up with a riot on our hands....

9:32-As I get off the hotel elevator and into the HQ hotel's lobby, I am immediately dismayed at the realization that I will not be getting coffee to properly activate my brain neurons that would then send the required amount of adrenaline to the rest of my body to awake myself out of my near-coma like tired state. The reasion being is that the Starbucks in the lobby is more crowded than the unemployment line in Detroit....

Because of this I then walk to a Panara Bread nearyby expecting to find a similiar fate awaiting me as that in Starbucks. But to my surprise, the restaurant of choice is nearly vacant whereupon I walk to the counter without waiting in line whatsoever to make my coffe purchase.

There is something to be said about this above story....Every restaurant that seems like it would be crowded with Apostolics last night because it was such a mainstream restaurant was indeed crowded with Apostolics at which point the wait for food must have been somewhere in the hour marker (as predicted)....and every hole in the wall/smaller restaurant that one would expect to be void of Apostolics was indeed void of Apostolics to which point there would be no line or waiting for food....

I enjoyed one of the finest monte christo sandwiches of my life last night at a small cafe literally right across from the arena called Wild Bill's Cafe....there were a total of six apostolics in this place....(nearly everyone who went to other restaurants in downtown would have had to walk by this place)....I'm not complaining

10:30-So the session I chose to attend was a youth workers sesion with Akil Thompson who is a youth pastor from Virginia I believe...it was a very pleasant surpise of a message to hear. One of the first things I appreciated was that he was openly referencing Andy Stanley as a source and reference for a message. This is a good thing, as opposed to other messages where I have heard preachers take material directly from other evangelists/authors and act like the message was their own. Akil is also the ultimate motivational speaker. His words are focused and impactful. The positive but bold tone he speaks with causes the listener to want to be on his side and believe in his message with just as much conviction as Akil himself has.

Some of his quotes:

"If your memories exceed your vision, the end is near."

"Don't aim for success...Aim for significance."

"Do for one what you can't do for all."

Lastly Akil had an emphasis on focusing our ministry and centering our energy to the one to three things we do well and have a heartbeat for, and not spread ourselves thin by touching the surface of many different ministries/projects. This is not the first time I have heard such an idea this year and it seems to be as a result of our recognition that we are more human than God when it comes to ministry. Instead of pretending to be God and do everything, why not recognize our humanity and do what we can within our limitations?

Morning Session-Sarahk

2009-08-06T16:02:00.002-05:00

Say a prayer for the Starbucks people at the Renaissance hotel. They were a little frazzled this morning when they were slammed with a crowd the entire morning! The students seemed to be behaving, and the adults as well ;), so I think they were alright, but... you know...

I stopped off there on my way to the morning classes, which, I'm happy to report, seemed really well attended. Tom Ellis was over with the high school age in the big auditorium, and the place seemed very full. I couldn't do more than peek, before I headed over to the young adult class, which was, PACKED. Literally-the set up wasn't the best, the entrance door landing you fairly close to the stage, which certainly prevented me from making my way in and around. However, it seems to be really saying something, that the UPCI now has such a large young adult constituency that it's time they take notice. (Which they have, in the form of the new young adult ministry "hyphen". I'm really excited to announce that hyphen debuts tonight and will be introduced during service. Immediately following service is the young adult event "8" which will be over at "Rockettown." I'll be blogging live from there to let you know how amazing this event turns out to be.) Pastor Mooney was this session's speaker and the reviews are mixed. I have heard from some that the message he presented was the very best of the conference, and others who felt he was speaking in frustration against any who don't fall into the very conservative camp.

One thing I did notice as I rounded the corner for the arena after my starbucks stop this morning was the long line to get over to the classes for the conference center. seems the set up is somewhat difficult and so the wait outside was quit long. FYI-you can get in from the opposite of the building, or through the Renaissance hotel without a second of pause.

From there it was on to the General session with some interesting drama, and great "souled out" music, before Brent & Rachel Coltharp spoke to the crowd of students and leaders.

And then onto lunch... Nashville is a great city during the day. There's enough eating places and everything really is within walking distance. What's difficult is that by nightfall all these same places will be closed down and youth pastors will be circling the block looking for eating places.

We convene again tonight at 6:30. We'll keep you posted.

Youth Congress Random Shots

2009-08-06T15:37:00.004-05:00

Jump Start: Sweet Silence Drama

2009-08-06T15:32:00.004-05:00

The Jump Start session allows the talents within our movement to flourish, often in non-traditional ways.

Here's a short clip of the Sweet Silence Drama in action. The Lord really moved.

Booths

2009-08-06T15:29:00.003-05:00

PPH offers resources for everything. The Bible School booths are fresh and inviting, with an ABI student wrapped to a pillar and TBC (brilliantly) featuring Mario Kart on the Wii for visitors to play.

Day Session [sen]

2009-08-06T15:11:00.002-05:00

This is not spiritual at all, but it has everything to do with youth congress. So I would just like to say that breakfast this morning was INCREDIBLE. In the wee hours of the morning, I made my way down to the first floor, looking forward at least to some humble muffins and a bowl of cereal. I was redirected by a humongous sign that proclaimed, "9th Floor, All Church Groups Listed, Breakfast Vouchers Necessary." After which followed at least a dozen or so church names. There was also a helpful woman apparently positioned for that purpose, who kindly but firmly directed me and a couple other girls back up to the 9th floor. Come to find out, breakfast was established in the hotel ballroom! I was amazed. Huge soaring ceilings, rows upon rows of round tableclothe-d tables, and an impressive array of people lined up apparently just to help me. And anyone else who wandered in. Scrambled eggs, grits [hooray for the South!], nice crispy bacon, sausage, various kinds of muffins and apples and bananas, and as many kinds of juices/milk as you can think of.

I love youth congress.

Morning session was much less ... excited, especially before service, than last night. People were a lot calmer. We more or less knew what we were supposed to do and where to go. We spent a lot less time buzzing, that's for sure. Most of the girls still had fabulous hair styles, but I saw very few "torture devices", except for a couple, like one poor thing whose wedge heels rose six inches off the ground.

So morning session lasted a long time. A long time. We were at the arena from around ten a.m. to two p.m. The "Jumpstart" was a 45-minute ... something. I don't know what to call it. They had various groups doing various things (I told you! It was indescribable). For instance, when I got there, they had people with their faces painted white acting out this amazing drama to a [song/sermon?] about healing. It was so cool. The group moved all around the stage, and it was obvious they had their act down pat.

The international Bag Ministry, as completed by Stitches, was terribly entertaining. I loved that it poked fun, ever so gently, at acts such as signing or waving glowing sticks for a song. It wasn't laugh-out-loud funny at first, but they did such a good job acting out their ... act. The funniest bit was when they played Michael W. Smith's "Place in This World." The leader of the group leaped and skipped earnestly about the stage, eagerly seeking his place in the world, trailing a ribbon of Wal Mart bags behind him. And, oh, that's the catch. Instead of sticks or signing, they use Wal Mart bags.

[Genius.]

Brother Tim Ellis proceeded thereafter to preach about David and the anointing on his life. I really enjoyed the way he incorporated three things: David's feelings of insecurity, the circumstances in his life he couldn't control, and the bad choices he had made -- all as obstacles impeding him fulfilling God's anointing on his life. He also called upon two people: a young man named Nick and a married lady named Teleesha (forgive the misspelling!). Each had one or all of the three problems that impacted their life. I really liked the teaching, though it times it was long-winded, and as you know, we are the generation of the Short Attention Span.

Then followed testimonies of what current Pentecostals around North America are accomplishing for the Lord's kingdom. I was terribly impressed. I'm sure I wasn't the only person inspired to go out and shine God's light wherever I am, no matter what.

Brother and Sister Calthorp were our final speakers for the day session. They taught on Apostolic Identity, which if I may admit, in deference to our AMAZING superpastor Rev. Darrell Johns, was his idea. [Not for youth congress, just in general] Sister Calthorp preached a lovely message on the treasure of God's Word, and that we should pass this precious treasure to every person we meet, that they may hold it and give it away themselves.

Brother Calthorp preached on actual doctrine for his portion of preaching. I loved every minute of it. I appreciated the respect he showed to ladies everywhere: we don't have to be seductive to be valued or precious. By virtue of being God's creation and being women in particular, we are deeply valued and treasured by God, and I don't have to dress like trash to be valued. That's not just holiness, that's peace of mind. It's beautiful.

Finally, FINALLY, it was over. I say that like I was dying to leave, which isn't really true, it's just that I'm beginning to see why NAYC only lasts three days! It's so intense and fast!

All the restaurants were spilling out with people [again]. We went a little out of the center of Nashville and found a nice, non-packed Burger King. It was heaven.

Booth Observations: Thursday Afternoon (kdc)

2009-08-06T15:02:00.004-05:00

Casual day with almost no one interested in making a fashion statement that didn't include jean skirts and flip flops. Yes, there were cowboy boots on a few girls, while almost no one is wearing hats of any kind.

Lots of good news though:

The hallways were impressively empty (to the point that hardened booth observers were impressed) during services.
The arena was stuffed, with perhaps 12,000 (but easily 10,000) people in attendance. The floor and lower tier were stuff, the middle tier was covered (except behind the stage) with a smattering of kids in the nosebleeds.
No registration nightmares. Sadly, Charlotte featured its share of screamers, but that hasn't been the case in Nashville.
The next Youth Congress city will be revealed tomorrow night. I can't tell, but I can hint: to my knowledge, Youth Congress hasn't been there previously.
General Session Speakers speak in the middle of the "Beyond" bullseye. (Rachel Coltharp is pictured.) Very cool.
Several husband-wife teams being used prominently.
At lunch, our waitress told us that the restaurant closes at 11, but last night from 10-11, they had a $3,000 hour when they usually hit around $500 in that last hour. I told them to stay open later tonight & they'd have several $3,000 hours.
Old school veterans are impressed with the 99% modest attire and long, uncut hair on the girls.

NAYC General Session

2009-08-06T13:19:00.001-05:00

The Coltharps just preached the defining message of Youth Congress. If you missed it, you MUST get the DVD from Media Missions.

-- iPhoned in

NABQT Intermediate Awards (ben)

2009-08-06T10:48:00.010-05:00

The bible quizzing banquet has been a staple of my life for the past 14 years. I remember many years of rubber chicken dinners, overdressed quizzers and fun table conversations. Unfortunately, this has been a working event for me over the past eight years, as I've become a more or less official photographer for the awards. But it's still fun.

Team Awards:

1) Colombus, Ohio

2) Fredericton, New Brunswick
3) Hillsboro, Texas
4) Oregon City, Oregon
5) Modesto, California
6) Oakdale, Louisiana
7) Denham Springs, Louisiana
8) Loomis, California
9) Cincinnati, Ohio
10) Grand Ledge, Michigan
11) Indianapolis, Indiana
12) Hodge, Louisiana

Individual Awards:

1) Andrew Huffman (Oregon 1) 115.83
2) Tanner Carroll (Ohio 1) 107.92
3) Amanda Gregory (Missouri 1) 137.00
4) Bailey Denny (Western 2) 119.29
5) Kellen Constant (Louisiana 4) 115.00
6) Brendan Abdalla (Texas 3) 111.66
7) Sara Pixley (Texas 4) 89.00

Quizzer of the Year: Brooke Rost (Hillsboro, Texas)
First Runner up: Karina Phillips (Fredericton, New Brunswick)
Second Runner up: Bailey Denny (Loomis, California)
Third Runner up: Sarah Winner (Denham Springs, Louisiana)
Fourth Runner up: Kellen Constant (Alexandria, Louisiana)

Coach of the Year: Elizabeth Strawn (Hillsboro, Texas)
First Runner up: Andrew & Anthony Gleason (Oregon City, Oregon)
Second Runner up: Brian & Lillian Cole (Fredericton, New Brunswick)
Third Runner up: Angie Denny (Loomis, California)
Fourth Runner up: Tim Jacobs (Euless, Texas)

Outfits! Outfits! Outfits! (kdc)

2009-08-06T09:31:00.000-05:00

From Wednesday Night's Service

Use with Caution (JWH)

2009-08-06T09:18:00.003-05:00

I generally don't condone this type of behavior, but I know it goes on in spite of my disapproval and utter disdain. So, in order to spare you single readers from chagrin, here are a few useful phrases that just might help you secure that special young man or lady for an after-service snack (warning: don't try this at home):

"I didn't know angels flew this low..."

"I'm invisible; can you see me?"... "Yes"... "How about tonight after service?"

"Nice Bible..."

"Are you tired? Because you've been running through my mind all day..."

"You love Jesus? Me too!"

"The Bible says, 'Blessed are you that are hungry, for you shall be filled...' How about dinner?"

"Is it a sin that you stole my heart?"

"Would you happen to know a Christian man/woman that I could love with all my heart and wait on hand and foot?"

"Excuse me, I believe one of your ribs belongs to me."

"Want to practice speaking in tongues with me?"

"Did you sleep in a hole last night... Because you are looking foxy."

Special thanks to Miss Kelsey Kinstle for the bulk of the above quotations.

First Night! of my first Youth Congress! [SEN]

2009-08-06T07:30:00.005-05:00

We arrived at the hotel dusty, tired, hungry, and pretty much everybody had short tempers. As we drove around the Hilton Garden Inn and walked into the lobby, I was amazed to see all the Pentecostal-looking people just milling around like they did this every day!

At 6:30 pm, the only word to describe the Sommet Center was PACKED. It was completely pack-jam full of people. I more or less gawked like a country bumpkin to see so many people swirling around us at once. Not to put too fine a point to it, but everyone looked so nice! I admired swirling, fantastic hair dos that looked like they'd come straight from a professional [which no doubt they did]. I also felt a little better about the milling crowds of people who looked a) lost, like me, and b) who were craning their necks searching for anybody they knew. That was me the whole time.

So we didn't get the floor seats that my uncle [youth pastor in PA] had intended. But we came close enough. We eventually settled in to watch the Talent Show, which was pretty cool just to see so many young people dedicating their hearts to God and using their talent for the Lord. To be strictly honest, I know it was only a talent search, but silly goose me, I wanted anointing. Even though it was only five minutes in. Which, just as a shout-out, Stockton's CLC group was amaaazing!

I was also definitely expected a roar from the crowd. It seemed so quiet! I had figured on a lot of hype, if not worship and just noise in general. To me it felt a lot more subdued than I would expect THE event of NAYC was going to be. That's not necessarily a downer, I just noticed that.

Worship was the best. That's when the atmosphere started to change. People stopped looking around at each other or for each other or even at themselves. You could see a wave of it start to build where people started focusing on God and drawing Him to us. I was thinking inside: This is more like it!

The Bible quizzing bit was one of my favorite parts. Wayne Francis walked up to the stage and I am NOT ashamed to say I screamed until the walls were like to fall. I was bursting with pride to see those awesome, awesome young people honored in front of the whole NAYC for their amazing dedication to God's Word and to quizzing in general. BQ is too often underestimated. It is such a powerful tool that works on your mind, your heart, and the way you live. You can't escape God's Word once it's hidden inside you, and it will keep you through the most desperate times. I was so proud [having done a stint myself] of their hard work and God's blessing. Bible quizzing rocks!

So Shay Mann's message was right on target. I love his preaching style. You could tell that the message resonated with many of the people in the arena: you do not have stay living like you are. God is not finished with you. You CAN and should live out the destiny that the Lord has designed for you! [Well, that's what I read into it :)]

I about burst with pride for the second time in so many minutes when Bro Mann brought up Trey Kiessling (forgive if the spelling on the last name is wrong) with the other young people up to the stage. First of all, the stories of these kids' lives were amazing. No, they didn't just get saved, they're moving on to seek God's will in their life. But anyway, as Trey came up on stage, I shouted my already-hoarse throat to its limit. Trey is a really dedicated member of my youth group [the Crowd, Youth Pastor Bro Brad, woo hoo!]. I remember when he first came to the Crowd and rapidly started to become deeply involved in church. Like Brother Mann said, he's involved as a children's minister in the daughter church and he just received his ministerial license. We love Trey!

It was a time, I tell you, a time, attempting to get out of that arena after service ended. Packed doesn't begin to describe it after service ended. I felt like I was in a maze and someone was laughing no end at my plight to try to reach my youth group. Plus, everyone wanted to fellowship (no kidding), all over the place. It was so funny. We were all on the move, everyone attempting to hold a conversation as they along with everyone else were exclaiming over people they had just seen.

We came back home at 1. Fell into bed. Praise God for breakfast!

Honor Where Honor is Due . . . (kdc)

2009-08-06T02:39:00.004-05:00

Bro. Wayne Francis received a huge applause when he stepped up to the stage, then he engineered a huge applause for all the Bible Quizzers in 2009, and especially the winners. He even high-fived them all. It was a nice touch.

Anyone who spends hours memorizing the Word of God deserves these kudos and more. Next year: "The Heart of Acts"!

Gentlemen, start your verse cards!

Wednesday Night Observations (kdc)

2009-08-06T02:08:00.006-05:00

So, my much awaited Youth Congress analysis, Day 1:

There was a palpable excitement during registration (yes, registration) this afternoon before they closed the doors around 3:30. That excitement is what makes Youth Congress what it is.
The attendance must be high. Word Aflame lost the booth lottery this year, being positioned less favorably in the past, yet the number of people rushing past rarely abated. That's an early indicator that we might be breaking records this year. The Sommet Center holds 20,000 people with a center stage configuration . . .
There's no internet cafe this year, which is a huge disappointment.

Should I mention the interracial couples? Not many, but more than in the past. I know you just thought, "who cares?" but I'm a reporter on what's happening in the movement and this was interesting. No one seemed to care here.
Lots of classy ladies. Not even Hollywood starlets know how to dress up like our Pentecostal ladies!
Lots of long obviously uncut hair too, says one of my spies.
Some elders in attendance, but not many.
It's just an impression, but it appears that a huge percentage of attendees (30%? 40%?) are first-timers. It's not just the tiny girls in enormous heels that can't walk straight or whose own heels are clearly a half-inch from the back of their shoes (see pictures), but the timidity in how many acted during service and how they failed to interact in the hallways. I'll keep an eye on this one, as it could prove significant.

NAYC: Wednesday Night Pictures (kdc)

2009-08-06T01:55:00.004-05:00

From 6 p.m. as the doors opened to hallway talking to Project 22:36 donations buckets to pizza in the hallway on the 13th floor of the Renaissance Hotel, here are a variety of shots to enjoy! (Yeah, stupid Blogger flipped the picture order on me and it's too late with too much to write to try to fix. Sorry.)

GQ or Bust! (kdc)

2009-08-06T01:42:00.004-05:00

The best part about manning a booth is it's easy to spot trends because the current of life is moving past your one fixed point. After a few minutes, it's not difficult to notice a pattern. Among the guys, it was:

A marked increase in vests. Vests with and without suitcoats.
A number of guys in sweaters, evidently unaware of the usual weather in Nashville in August.
Say it together with me kids, "Bow ties." I asked one teen, "So, bow ties?" "Yeah." "Seems like they're the new trend." "I guess. I've been wearing them for some time now." Nerd.
White shoes.
The super cool were wearing shinny legged pants. (The exclusive Kent Curry collection will be premiering in Milan this fall.)
Gelled mohawks.

No, I don't know what any of this means.

Shoes or Torture Devices? You Decide! (kdc)

2009-08-06T01:39:00.005-05:00

The choices of many ladies tonight were eye-catching, though many of them looked like they were wearing elaborate devices of torture instead of shoes. (Ladies, don't try this at home!)

NAYC: In Search of Food (kdc)

2009-08-06T01:19:00.006-05:00

So how did I end up following a group of Canadians through the streets of Nashville in search of a restaurant, when they had never visited before and I had. Yes, just another mystery of Youth Congress 2009. At least we had a great time eating at the Cajun Cafe across the street from the Sommet Center (after traipsing blindly through the darks streets for blocks).

Happily, the Beignet's were delicious!

Day 1: Done-Sarahk

2009-08-06T01:17:00.003-05:00

Well I tried desperately to blog from the car, but it wouldn't post, so.... here I am, the end of day 1. Watching the "shocking" news that Paula Abdul has left American Idol and thinking about the first evening of Congress being over. I reiterate, the temperatures and humidity are dreadful. I suddenly remember why I so love being a Yankee! Again, several of my friend's youth groups found the problem of there being no open restaurants. I realize that won't be an issue come Friday night, but it was tonight and it will be tomorrow.

Secondly, I agree with the previous post about crazy heels, mostly because my feet are yelling at me.

Now-I can't believe that prom dresses are making a reappearance. I thought that went out with the 90s. But apparently they're back! Outside of that there were the occassional crazy outfit, but overall, the surprise in close is that dressy is back in. For all the casual rallies and those of us in leadership begging for casualness, the look as a whole is back to being almost too dressy. The men also. I LOVE it!!

The girls from the great white north liked the music, but felt like the songs were a little unknown. If we could all just get on the same page, that would be so much easier!!

Joel and Kent did some great interviews, and I had a wonderful visit with Nate Binion at the hyphen booth.

One thing I really enjoyed was the style of the booths. The college booths specifically. They were very casual and comfortable. I almost pulled up a comfy chair and joined. Ok, that's all I have for the moment. I'll join it with pics tomorrow!!!

Summit Center-The Mobile Mecca-Evening One (JDR)

2009-08-05T23:53:00.007-05:00

As I publish the few thoughts I have to offer for the night, I will be presenting two photographs for my early nominees of best-dressed at NAYC 2009 throughout....

Nominee #1-the couple whose outfit was made entirely out of duct tape....

6:42-As I descend on the Summit Center, I find myself identifying the countless ladies struggling in their march to the Center because of their high heels... so much struggling that I almost feel their pain....so I have a proposal for the females: Sign a Mutually Assured Destruction cease fire where all the women agree to not wear high heels for sake of not getting blisters and comfort, and at the same time they trust that other females will follow suit as to not make the non-high heel females look bad (I hope that made sense....)...essentially all the females agree to not make a competition out of their footwear for the sake of mass comfort. With this thought, the common female fashion trend was high heels and skirts.

7:15 I entered the VIP Room of the speakers and youth presidents in the arena and the situation was surprisingly anti-climactic. It had the feel of a typical Sunday afternoon after church fellowship picnic. (video below)

7:38-I take a back hallway staircase up to the third level of the arena in which I awkwardly walk into a break-up conversation. What is in the water at congresses and conventions alike that induce so many break-ups? I mean the obvious answer is that one sees all the fish in the sea at congress and that person wants to be available to the fish (if you catch my drift)...however I don't know why these people don't anticipate the situation and do the break-up ahead of congress to make it drama-free....

Nominee #2 for best-dressed: --------->

8:32 As I answer a text message mid-service from a friend I haven't seen in three months who is in the service, I look up to notice many people around me texting and I-phoning as well. These technological advances have fundamentally changed the dynamic of a service for many people. Verbal conversation is going way of the caveman in service because of these devices but at the same time focus to the service is being drastically minimized for these device users as well.

8:39-Tambourine makes appearance during sermon.

9:52-As I walk out the arena at the conclusion of the service, the weather is irritatingly humid & hot....which makes for a good show to see the masses of Apostolics become exponentially irritated in the swarm of confusion of people trying to find each other in what is being defined as the "social culdesac" outside the main entrance of the arena.

10:32-Watching the Apostolics mingle in the streets outside in the bar district amidst town drunkards is certainly a priceless scene. While the apostolics seem unphased at such occurances, it is the looks of the drunkards towards the formally dressed Apostolics that bring the amusement.

Nominee for best dressed #3 (on right):

NABQT Banquet (ben

2009-08-05T21:57:00.001-05:00

The mad rush is on--the annual sport of finding a good table with sufficient seating has always been a minor sport on the last day of NABQT. Thankfully, my good friend Arthur Vanderhoff secured a table for his team which we were able to join. Updates as they happen.

-- iPhoned in

Booths (ben)

2009-08-05T19:54:00.001-05:00

I couldn't help myself--once we'd secured seats, I left my kids to hold them while I wandered around browsing the booths. My first stop was the UGST booth. Knowing Rhonda Morley for decades, I had to stop by and say hello. I also saw Kent and Jennie Russell, who are valiently manning the booth. Stop by and check out the degree programs offered. And don't forget to pick up some hand sanitizer (just don't mistake it for breath-freshner.

I also stopped by the Project 22:39 booth. As I was surveying the city this week I was hoping that 22:39 would address homelessness and pan-handling (see JWH's post below). I'll address this later, as well, but it's good to see that we're not ignoring such an obvious issue in this city as we did in 2003.

-- iPhoned in

It Begins (ben)

2009-08-05T18:41:00.000-05:00

It's chaos out here on the streets as thousands of young apostolics flood the sidewalks and streets.

The booths are open. I stopped by CMI to see the Pattersons--campus missionaries to Penn State and Penn College of Tech.

Right next to the CMI booth is the "hyphen" booth--the new young adult ministry. Come check it out.

Those who came early to stake out seats are attending (enduring?) the North American Talent Search.

See you here in a few.
-- iPhoned in

And we enter the Nashville.....(JDR)

2009-08-05T17:51:00.003-05:00

(I apologize for no pictures, I have to figure this stuff out)

(Running dialogue)....

4:35-Ride into downtown only to see the first formally dressed UPCers already walking to the 7:30 service....These are the hardcore fans....Hats off to them!

5:22-Ride down in elevator with elevator full of Apostolic females...My nasal system is still in recovery as I type this after being drowned in a cataclysm of variously priced and warring perfumes....

5:26-Identify Tim Rutledge, Wayne Francis, Chris Endsley, Jeffrey Goodman in lobby. As strange as it there is kind of a celebrity-like feel to the presence...complete with finger pointing and corresponding whispers all around.....The females I am with (Kelsey, Rachael, Kacie) were coincedentley talking about them as I typed this entry to add to their celebrity status. If anyone is wondering, the style of choice for Chris Endsley and Wayne Francis was dark sport coat with white pants to match (and if my memory serves me right....a bright tie).

5:30-Beginning to already get sick of the "Oh My Word, what are you doing here?" reactions from Apostolics as if it is a complete coincedence all of us UPCers chose to embark onto the city of Nashville on the same weekend..

5:35-Ride in elevator full of men on way up to room, complete with warring cologne smells....Instantly become reminiscent of what I imagine a closet full of Frank Sinatras and Dean Martin would smell like.......

OUT!

2009-08-05T15:34:00.002-05:00

On the road and nearly there!! kudos to the amazing joelJoel rileyRiley (see blog below) for some amazing driving! as a result we are racing along into Nashville just 30 mins to go!! The excitement is rampant in the car or so iI assume since Juju and Gav have stpped fighting with one another! The ride has been relatively quick and iI even worked in a nap. Middle Tenn is some beautiful country though the temperature keeps rising. imI'm excited to get to the arena and see the young adult booth. tune in, we'll keep you posted!

Follow me on Twitter!!

2009-08-05T15:22:00.001-05:00

My Twitter sn is: oneintheword. I've been posting additional updates there! (this is my gorgeous niece Ella!!)

-- Post From My iPhone

Preview of the arena (rao)

2009-08-05T15:08:00.000-05:00

Here's a sneak preview of the arena many of you may see tonight!

-- Post From My iPhone

The Finals (ben) OHIO TAKES BOTH DIVISIONS (FINAL)

2009-08-05T12:01:00.000-05:00

Toledo pulled it out with two dominant quizzes over Pearland. Congrats to Colombus and Toledo!

-- iPhoned in

Twitter

2009-08-05T11:42:00.001-05:00

Follow Me. http://www.twitter.com/bencohen

-- iPhoned in

The Finals (ben) UPDATE

2009-08-05T11:37:00.001-05:00

Ohio just defeated South Texas in experienced--on to a second quiz as each team has now lost one quiz (it's a double-elimination tournament).

-- iPhoned in

The Finals (ben) UPDATE

2009-08-05T10:58:00.001-05:00

Colombus, Ohio prevails in the intermediate division. Fredericton, New Brunswick were gracious in defeat.

-- iPhoned in

The Finals (ben)

2009-08-05T10:36:00.001-05:00

The bible quizzing finals are underway in the Convention Center and are slated to continue until noon. However the Colombus, Ohio team may win and take us through another quiz.

-- iPhoned in

Panhandlers Vs. Pentecostals: It's On! (JWH)

2009-08-05T09:06:00.012-05:00

Strolling around downtown Nashville, you will doubtless encounter one of many our homeless "neighbors" or "distant relatives" of the genus homo sapiens. These past five days in Nashville, I have encountered or stumbled upon (inadvertently) at least two to three of these uniquely situated individuals a day. This experience is somewhat new to me, due to the fact that I make my residence in Detroit, where to the best of my knowledge, there are no homeless people. We don't have homeless people; our biggest problem is peopleless homes (I think). In any case, there are indeed homeless people in Nashville, and you will likely encounter a few during your stay here.

Here is a particularly striking example of the panhandling flavor as recounted by my compatriot "Rumplestiltskin": sweet! I ran into the homeless firsthand, and boy was it great! She cut me off from my group as we were scurrying from the Renaissance hotel to the Marriot and kept me company nearly the whole trip, displaying the most wonderful version of southern hospitality mine eyes ha' e'er seen! It was 6.5 minutes before she asked me for money! I only had to deny her twice before she gave up. I felt bad, and almost wanted to give her money, but I felt compelled to obey the laws of the land(Do NOT give money to the vagrants), so I decided to deny her. One of the inspirational things that this "vagrant" told me was, "I don't know what god's purpose for me here yet is, but I know he has a plan for me, just like he has a plan for YOU". She also told me that she knew I wasn't a local because I actually talked to her and was nice. She had on some very nice clothes but only one hairclip for all of her hair. She shook my hand and smiled often. She seemed quite normal compared to all of the other homeless people I've encountered/stumbled upon in my storied history...God bless America...Bybel Kwizzing Rox!!!!!

Thanks for that enlightening anecdote, "Rumplestiltskin."

The Master (i.e. Jesus Christ) addresses this subject in Matthew 25, where he instructs to give to the needy, naked, and sick in exchange for eternal life. This is clear enough; as Christians, we are commanded to give to the needy and homeless. But there are complications, often cited by individuals (myself among them) who disguise their selfishness with excuses about supporting drug and alcohol habits. Let the government take care of these individuals slash families, we say. But this presents further complications: how can we, as God-fearing religious conservatives, condone big government social welfare programs? There are private institutions founded specifically to support the homeless.

Ok, good. That problem is resolved. We don't have to worry about homeless people or big-government. But do we? There is such a thing as the free-rider problem: if enough people take this stance of indifference, no homeless will be helped. It really is up to us.

How can we help this week? I recommend signing up for Project 22:39 at http://www.northamericanyouthcongress.com/project2239.htm. I also recommend buying an issue of The Contributor (http://www.nashvillecontributor.org/). At first I thought this homeless newspaper business was a scam, but after buying and perusing an issue, I now think this might be a legit deal. At least I got to read some interesting articles about homeless and former homeless individuals, like Papa Smurf and Mother Teresa (No joke--check it out for yourself). Also, when I bought my copy, the evidently homeless vendor said, "God bless you." From my reading of Matthew 25, I think He will.

About Town (ben)

2009-08-05T00:02:00.006-05:00

I didn't have a chance to compose this on Saturday when we arrived here in Nashville. I did not realize that Nashville is in the Central time zone. Both my car's clock and my phone automatically adapted via GPS to the new timezone, I suppose I should have realized that we made really good time on the drive in, but I wasn't paying that much attention--I was more worried about not losing the Bishop as he followed, and also avoiding speedtraps. When we arrived, we thus had several hours of free time prior to NABQT orientation. Seeing the State Capitol in the distance, I decided that that would be an interesting building to investigate. On the way, we stopped in at Victory Park and noticed the war monuments dating back to commemorations of the Civil War. On further investigation we discovered that the War Museum is located on the premises, and is open free of charge. Despite it being a museum, my kids were actually interested in the uniforms, armor and weapons of the various states and eras. It's an interesting attraction, if you have the time. Upon exiting the museum, it began to rain, so enterprising man that I am, I directed the group to enter the library (the library is connected to a parking garage which is connected to the Renaissance). Since we still had several hours to kill, we browsed around the public library. It's impressive in both its collection and its architecture. The Public Library has some special collections, along with a Civil Rights room. If you have a chance, take a look around.

Youth congress is in session! (rao)

2009-08-04T22:28:00.001-05:00

It's a rainy night in Nashville but Apostolics are pouring in as well! Here at the Renaissance the Apostolic population is increasing exponentially! Had my first reader come to say hi. I think it was the sling that gave it away. The reward for recognizing a youthcongresslive blogger? Most definitely a shout out!

Here's some guys from the Sanctuary in St Louis:

-- Post From My iPhone

Prayer & Share (ben)

2009-08-04T18:11:00.001-05:00

Instead of devotion on Tuesday, bible quizzing instead has a consecration service called Prayer and Share (aka Cry and Bye, Grieve and Leave) in which quizzers who are no longer eligible to quiz share their life and quizzing experiences. It's a great service which elucidates the real meaning and impact of bible quizzing. If you can make it, it will be in the convention center (connected to the Renaissance) at 7pm tonight.

-- iPhoned in

Cheesecake Factory (rao)

2009-08-04T12:38:00.001-05:00

Ok, so I'm not an enormous fan of Cheesecake Factory because of the prices (I always live like I'm in a recession) but I caved with some Arkansas quizzing people! Here are some pics from the Cheesecake Factory at Green Valley Hills Mall:

Here is Cameron from Ft Smith looking at the cheesecake.

-- Post From My iPhone

The Ghost of Youth Congresses Past

2009-08-04T09:48:00.001-05:00

If you want to see the good, the bad, and the ugly from the last 2 Youth Congresses, drop on by 90&9's Facebook page and take a gander (as Mamaw used to say).

We've got exclusives from 2005 (Columbus) and 2007 (Charlotte).

Late Nights (ben)

2009-08-04T02:49:00.000-05:00

I'm getting old and cranky. It was not long ago when I would look forward to the late nights after quizzing/service when I could hang out, talk and play games. Now, I think about when I need to fall asleep so I can be reasonably awake in the morning. I think part of it is related to the disinterest in youth congress itself. Much to my chagrin, I've realized over the years how little events like these have genuinely impacted my life. This is not to say that there haven't been great lessons and sermons over the years (Doug White's music sermon comes to mind, along with Nathanael Urshan's Friday afternoon in Atlanta, after a surgery had recovered him from some heart issues; also of note are Nathan Reever's and Scott Graham's departing messages, and who can forget Todd Gaddy's?), but even such great sermons have not impacted my life in anywhere near the way that a Sunday Evening message has cut to the heart and been directed precisely at me. I've realized that it's not the big events so much as the consistent events that are most important in our lives. There's similar logic that follows when one considers the meet market that YC has become. Who are we trying to impress when we set aside that perfect tie or dress for the GQ look du mois? Are we really going to meet that special "someone" in an arena of 15,000? Who would even notice if we showed up in jeans and a t-shirt? I actually considered going completely casual this year, however it was my lateness in packing which generated a dearth of casual clothes, but an over-abundance of business-casual. Who cares whether we are dressed-up or casual? It makes no difference to God whether we're wearing Charvet or Targét. Now I certainly don't mean to malign anyone who dresses well, but I've got to wonder if it's really worth it. Could our focus on beauty be detrimental? Certainly, if it wastes time and resources that ought to be devoted to important business of life and the work of God. When studying music recently, I was directed to the passage in Ezekiel (28) that's oft cited as the "Lucifer was worship leader in heaven" passage. While the instruments are present, scripture indicates much more strongly that it was not the music so much as the overall appreciation of his beauty and brightness which arrogated him such that he was thrust out of heaven.

Your heart was filled with pride because of all your beauty. You corrupted your wisdom for the sake of your splendor. So I threw you to the earth and exposed you to the curious gaze of kings. (Ez 28:17)

Why doesn't this bother us more as a society of believers? Jesus was ugly (see Isa 53:2). I always hear "I want to be more like Jesus", when we simply want his oratorical skill, power, miracles and crowds. We don't want to suffer. Believe me, I don't want to suffer. I don't want to be ugly; I indeed want to match my clothing and wear nice suits, but how long have we satisfied ourselves by believing that these are the things that matter? How long until we realize that pouring dressing onto rotting and moldy salad doesn't change the salad, but simply masks the taste of the garbage that we're consuming?

What matters?

50.

2009-08-04T02:06:00.003-05:00

We must celebrate. Make sure you express your congratulations loudly (he may not notice if his hearing aid is turned down).

Happy birthday to a great friend.

Photographic Images of Nashville and Its Environs (JWH)

2009-08-04T00:21:00.009-05:00

Quizzers hang out (rao)

2009-08-03T23:46:00.000-05:00

If you are going to nationals, there are two things you look forward to: winning the national championship and hanging out with other quizzers at night. Whilst the biggest hang out night is the last, quizzers typically party all week depending on their quizzing schedule. Here are some pics from tonight!

-- Post From My iPhone

Elimination (JWH)

2009-08-03T22:34:00.007-05:00

Quizzing is long-since underway here in Nashville. Round one is completed, and round two has begun. Several teams have now, sadly, been eliminated from competition. The team I coach happens to be one of those teams.

It has been a great year of quizzing for our team and many other teams across the continent, and I hope their study of Luke has rewarded them in ways deeper than which man esteems.

NABQT post-round 1 (rao)

2009-08-03T18:25:00.003-05:00

Quizzing has gone great so far! We're right in the middle of the tournament as Round 1 finished up this morning. In the Experienced division, Lufkin, Tx (Tx 1) ended up playing Pearland, Tx (STX 1) for the finals of Round 1 with STX 1 coming out on top. The Intermediate division finals consisted of Texas 1 and Atlantic 1 with Atlantic 1 taking the finals.

Devotion on Sunday was powerful! Bro Creel did an awesome job preaching on the subject "Where is the word?". Here is an excerpt from his sermon, a quizzing translation of Luke 8:4-15:

4. And when much people were gathered together, and were come to him out of every city, he spake by a parable: 5. A quizzer went out to study his cards: and as he studied, some fell by the wayside; and they were trodden down and rained upon and run over by cars and trucks, an then the fowls of the air used them to build their nests and the dogs in the neighborhood devoured the remainder of them. 6. And some of them fell (or were they pushed?) between the cushions of the couch; and as soon as they slid down, they disappeared forever, because they made it to the bottom trapped by the fabric stapled from corner to corner. 7. And some were left on the pew at the last quiz tournament; and the custodians picked them up but because they had identification, they were cast into the outer darkness of the dumpster. 8. And another box of cards was there, carefully marked and cataloged. Beginning and ending phrases highlighted with one time words in italics. These were studied intensely and learned extremely well even to the point that he could quote them each day an hundred times. And when he had said these things, he cried He that hath ears to hear, let him hear. 9. And his disciples asked him saying, What might this parable be? 10. And he said, unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see and hearing they might not understand. 11. Now the parable is this: the study cards are the word of God.
12. Those by the way side are they that quiz; then cometh the devil, and convinces them that this is only a game and a time to just have fun and fellowship (memorize enough to make the trip then forget it), lest they should really understand and believe what they have studied and truly recognize the God's plan for salvation in their lives.
13. Those in the couch are they, which, when they study, study only the word that brings them joy (ie. the short and simple verses that are easy to quote); therefore these quizzers have no foundation, which want you to believe they know their stuff, but in time of pressure in a quiz or in a temptation of life, they fall away.
14. And those which were left on the pew are they , which had really good intentions but because of negligence ended up away from the sanctuary bound and mixed in with the cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and even though their intentions were good, they bring no fruit to perfection.
15. But the good quizzers are they, which with an honest and good heart, having studied the word, keep it, not only when the quiz year ends but throughout the year and apply it to their hearts and lives, so that they will bring forth fruit with patience.

-- Post From My iPhone

Restaurants in Nashville

2009-08-03T17:27:00.003-05:00

Downtown
Demos'
Old Spaghetti Factory
Big River Grille
House of Pizza (and anything in the Arcade - lunch only)
Farmer's Market (very long walk from Sommet, consider driving)

NOTE: The Arcade is an area in downtown Nashville kind of in an alleyway that opens during the daytime for businesses and I think maybe on Saturdays.

West End (1 mile from downtown)
Chili's
P.F.Chang's
Friday's
Bricktops
Tin Angel
Maggiano's

21st Street (off of West End)
Sportsmen's Grill
Pizza Perfect
Fido's
Roly Poly
Jackson's
Pancake Pantry (breakfast and lunch only)

Places to Visit Downtown
Ryman Auditorium
Country Music Hall of Fame
Parthenon/Centennial Park (off of West End)
Frist Center (art museum)

Special thanks to 90&9 staffer Alicia Tidwell for sharing her native Nashville-ian's expertise!

On the predicted Fashion Norms and the inevitable Fashion Abnormalities of NAYC '09-JDR

2009-08-03T15:48:00.006-05:00

As I have been deliberating within my thinking apparatus about the possible positions as a blogger for NAYC, I have placed myself within several different thematic characters as an observer of NAYC and considered what I might write about as that character. Let me explain, there may be a part of me who will pay special attention to the spiritual aspect of Congress and/or the sermons which are heard. While this kind of reporting is the most essential to what congress is about, I will leave this segment to those who are better reporters than I, for my gifts are not those of discernment. While you may hear a word or two on the services from me, I do not expect it to be my focus...I will leave that to my superiors on the matter...

Another kind of writer is that who just relays his own daily existence as the major point of focus with the setting of NAYC as the backdrop to his ongoing diary and encounters. While my friend Justin Herring has already used this method once on here in his previous blog blog about Urban Exploration, I do not have the wherewithal to introduce myself as a character in the grand scheme of the NAYC madness....While I may introduce myself as a character from time to time, I think personal matters and stories are far too minuscule to do justice to the occurrences and flow of NAYC.

So I have settled on the following character: The NAYC resident sociology blogger. That is, someone who reports on the habits and doings and occurrences of the NAYC crowd and audience at-large. Essentially one who reports on Apostolic Pentecostal culture. It is something that I have quite an affection for. As any ApoPento can relate, Apostolic Pentecostal Culture is a very unique being completely distinct and recognizable from the secular culture at large.....It's entirely fascinating, somewhat hypnotizing, and yet somehow multi-dimensional. You can't put a finger on exactly what ApoPento culture is, but yet you recognize it the moment you see it. It's unmistakable, but yet almost undefinable. So that is my self-described task: To attempt to define the NAYC UPC culture and whatever that implies and means. I would go as far as to say that I to believe NAYC is the benchmark that defines the UPC culture at-large for the next two years until the next forthcoming congress....

I have said all of the above to say this: Fashion is one of the very unique things about UPC culture. One cannot speak of UPC young people nor of NAYC without implying fashion soon after. As my wonderful friend and associate Sarahk remarked earlier, she is already considering her fashion options.....and I can almost guarantee you that a majority of UPC youth have been thinking about this quagmire of a dilemma for weeks, if not months ahead of time....some girl may find that special dress to wear the last night of congress back in May and does not let it make an appearance outside of her closet until this special date in Nashville. Another male may have eyed a particular tie that just matches precisely the gimmick he is going for on the first night of congress complete with sport coat from H & M and jeans from Express (I assure you this imaginative character in no way reflects me).

Anyways what are going to be the fashion trends of this congress? While I have no way of knowing for the females (because female UPC fashion can be summed up as a giant mosaic of styles at best), I can make a somewhat educated yet speculative guess that the trends this this coming week will be more GQ than ever for the male....complete with bowties, vests, and somewhat tight blue jeans amuck. It will not suprise me one bit if some trends border-line on the clown-like such as the Vatican inspired picture above. One may think this guess a bit imaginative, but I foreone love dressing formally (and therefore somewhat clown-like), and we must remember that it was the most recent youth congress that a speaker literally dressed himself in a batman mask (pictured at right).

So what do you guys think? Any fashion predictions? Past memories of the good/bad of youth congress fashion?

Are you Serious--Sarahk

2009-08-03T12:32:00.004-05:00

In the wake of a crazy busy week, I've finally settled in to finish some work that has reached the way overdue status. And in an effort to avoid that work, I finally went back and read from this blog. My only response: Are you serious?? Kent, that is a lovely pic of you. Justin and Joel, hi!! Ben.... you hate Shakespeare? You HATE Shakespeare? And here I thought we were going to be such lovely friends!!!

I must admit, the excitement has begun to kick in. I wonder if at the ripe old age of 25 again, I should be so excited about Congress, but it is growing.

The weather report has just been updated to an even hotter week in Nashville. 84, 89, and 87 respectively, and thunder showers the whole way. I'm having recollections of the intense heat and humidity of Charlotte, 2 years ago.

I'm staring into my closet trying to figure out what I wear on a daily basis and how I manage to get dressed to go to church week after week, as it seems I have nothing, absolutely nothing to wear.

I've touched base twice with my Congress roommates, and checked my e-mail three times for my schedule to work the brand new hyphen booth, where you must all stop by to purchase your "8" tickets.

I feel 15 again, and now I'm oh so excited for Congress!!

First Quiz (ben)

2009-08-02T13:46:00.000-05:00

Quizzing began this morning at 9am. My team captain had decided to randomly draw no. 4, so we had to wake up for the second quiz of the day. Unfortunately, he also didn't listen to me about not standing near his friends when drawing a number. The numbers are really not that mixed up, so the individuals you stand near are likely the teams that you will quiz. Thus we ended up quizzing our very good friends from Miramichi, New Brunswick.

Now a little about Miramichi: we've known the Carter family for years. In fact they've been around us nearly since birth. Since the junior extravaganza was held at Newark for several years, I believe that each of them received the holy ghost at a Friday evening children's rally. Two of my quizzers have been quizzing against the Carters for years. In fact, I believe we have drawn them as the first quiz in about half of the tournaments that we've attended with them. Needless to say, I was dismayed when I discovered that we'd drawn them. Figuring that my kids would be familiar with their friends, I told them to treat it like practice; unfortunately, they decided instead to freeze up and not answer any questions. Of course I understand this, having been nervous at NABQT for several years, however as a quizzer, I came to the conclusion that I have nothing to lose--if I can get my quizzers to understand this, then they'll actually have a fighting chance. This is applicable to life--many people live in their own little bubble and fear taking any chances. Through quizzing we have an opportunity to demo life, and make the mistakes and learn the principles when it doesn't really matter. That's the genius of bible quizzing.

-- iPhoned in