YOUTH CHAPLAIN'S MESSAGE
Glory be to the Father Son and Holy Spirit - One true God!
Dear family,
In a recent session with some of our younger members, it became very evident that interest in the landscape of worship has dramatically shifted in recent years. We are witnessing a rise in new trends, much like those seen in many modern churches, where worship is increasingly rooted in musical styles and individual experiences. While music and experiential worship certainly play important roles in our faith journey, there is a growing concern that worship is becoming more self-centered than God-centered. This transformation is troubling because it moves us away from worship that truly nourishes our spirits and draws us closer to God.
We must ask ourselves: Is God still the center of our worship, whether in Holy Qurbana or during our singing sessions? Are we shifting our focus away from Him? Is our worship more about "Lord, I need You," or should it be "Lord, I am Yours"? Unfortunately, it seems that our emphasis is often more on what we can gain from a worship rather than what we can offer to God. This is a serious issue in many of our worship practices. Whether during Holy Qurbana or in Praise and Worship, our lips should be moved by the truth found in the Holy and Glorious Trinity lived in and through us. Trends may come and go, but the core of worship should always be aligned with what God desires from us: worship in spirit and in truth.
As Jesus said in John 4:24, "God is spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth." True worship is not just a series of moments spent in a church building; it is a life-long commitment to honoring God with every aspect of our being. It involves not only singing songs or participating in rituals but also praying for others, serving them in love, and living out our faith daily.
So, how can we ensure that our worship is in the right spirit?
- Reverence, Adoration, Humility, and Obedience: Our worship must be marked by a deep respect for God, adoration for His greatness, humility in His presence, and obedience to His will.
- Preparation of the Heart: Before we enter into worship, we must take the time to prepare our hearts and emotions, making them ready to truly encounter God.
- Heartfelt Worship: God desires our hearts more than He desires the latest music or worship styles. Our worship should come from a place of genuine love and devotion.
- Glorifying God: Ultimately, our worship should be about bringing glory to God. As 1 Corinthians 6:20 reminds us, "For you were bought with a price. So glorify God in your body."
Let us be mindful in our worship, ensuring that He receives the honor, praise, and devotion that is due to Him. May our worship be a true reflection of our love for God, centered on His truth and filled with His Spirit.
Youth Fellowship House Keeping
1.Twice-a-Month Youth Fellowship Bible Study will be on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, and Wednesday, October 23, 2024, starting at 7:00 pm and concluding by 8:30 pm. We will also have light snacks. I encourage you to join us and be a part of this enriching experience!
2. Additionally, do not forget that your Parish Youth Fellowship Meetings are happening every month. For more details, please reach out to your Parish Youth Fellowship Secretary, who will have all the information you need.
3. NERYF Fall One-Day Retreat: Mark your calendars for November 30, 2024, at Long Island Mar Thoma Church. It is going to be a day full of spiritual renewal and fellowship—more details to follow.
I look forward to seeing you at these events and growing together in faith!
Prayers,
JVarghese Achen
+15165326115