By Sherian Grant
Earlier this year, I took a huge step in my faith and in volunteering. I dared myself to go beyond the box of contentment and to do what it was I had set my mind to do.
How?
Well, let’s just say that Genesis Praise Fest 2023 held on New Year’s Day left a huge impact on me. I remember seeing the many young people involved in setting up the stage, lights, and cameras, and I was so mesmerised, merely because I had training in media from my home church. However, standing on the sidelines and seeing the effort that was put into Genesis made me want to be on the other side of the fence, literally. I don’t believe in coincidences, but I do believe that God is intentional. I remember speaking to Dexter Johnson Jr for the first time as a stranger, and little did I know his “Whappen?” would be the first of many.
Fast forward to a few days into January, when I had an upcoming event at school for which I was in charge of the planning. I reached out to Dexter about having GYM, the Youth for Christ Mime team, minister at the event, and he said, “Yes.” Although the event was cancelled, I still kept in contact with him.
Then February rolled around, and I remember, specifically, the day I was travelling home in a taxi when I thought of reaching out to Youth for Christ (YFC) on Instagram, which I did. I went further and sent Dexter Jr a WhatsApp message, asking if he was a member. When I shared my interest in volunteering with the ministry, he was more than happy to have me join.
DIFFERENT OUTLOOK NOW
The ambiance at Youth for Christ is very warm and friendly. To say that I’m just a volunteer would be far from the truth, because it’s like I’ve found a family there: persons who were willing to teach me on the spot and were very patient with me even when I was frustrated with myself; persons who believed in me and encouraged me.
Since being a part of the team, I have met many renowned ministers, such as Johnmark Wiggan, Audia Spencer-Brown, and Minister D Brown, just to name a few. The passion that I see in these young people for Christ fuels my passion in ways they would never imagine, and that is just by being around and watching them work.
The unity that is within the Youth for Christ family is second to none; it is my safe haven. I must admit that there have been days when I was feeling depressed; then, just taking a trip to No. 2 Acacia Avenue would make a world of difference.
I honestly love the dedication and commitment of the team. And as young people, you know wi nuh boring! It’s always fun, fellowship, and love. Being around all that has made me a better Christian, as I have a different outlook now on ministry, for we can be sold out for the Kingdom in so many different ways. The diverse gifts and talents that make up Youth for Christ complement each other, and I know without a shadow of a doubt that the LORD wanted me there.
I have had the privilege to be a part of Audience of One, Rhythm and Praise, IT Must Be Heard, A Miracle for Grace, and a host of other events. I could not have asked for better experiences. To be honest, I’m quite reserved, but having been around such amazing people, it didn’t take long for me to get along with them.
All in all, my biggest motivation, from the start and still, is Dexter Johnson Jr, my mentor. Just knowing that someone has dedicated their life, like he has for the Kingdom, is admirable. The love that he has for the youth knows no bounds, and if no one else can, I know that I can attest to that.
Whether I’m behind a camera, setting up, breaking down, or taking part in R.A.P.I.D (YFC’s prayer arm), I do it all for the glory of God and for the advancement of His Kingdom. My heart has found a home that is my safe space.
Jamaica Youth for Christ is my safe haven.
_____________________________________
Contact Sherian Grant at sheriangrant581@gmail.com. At age 23, she is an author and mental health advocate, UTech UCCF Evangelism & Literature coordinator, JYFC member, teacher, dancer, and public speaker/orator. See her book, “Motivate. Elevate. Create.” on amazon.com