Cedars and Coastal Shores Churches Host Youth Day and Toy Giveaway
On December 30, 2023, the Cedars of Lebanon and Coastal Shares Seventh-day Adventist churches came together for a memorable Youth Day, transcending the holiday spirit beyond Christmas. This special occasion not only showcased the vibrant energy of the youth but also demonstrated the churches’ commitment to giving back to the community.
The day began with an inspiring twist – the children took charge of the service, infusing it with youthful exuberance and genuine joy. The congregation witnessed a unique blend of innocence and spirituality as the young ones led various aspects of the program, leaving an indelible mark on everyone present.
Following the uplifting service, the community gathered for a delightful lunch, fostering fellowship and camaraderie. The atmosphere buzzed with gratitude and shared moments of connection, emphasizing the unit with the Cedars of Lebanon and Coastal Shores congregations and our new family members.
We invited our community from Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Norfolk, and Virginia Beach to church, lunch, and the toy giveaway! The highlight of the day was the generous giveaway program, where 142 toys were given away to approximately 70 children creating a joyful atmosphere and fostering a sense of community and goodwill. The youth carried out all of the church roles for day and they all did an excellent job! To sum up the day, the Holy Spirit was in this place!
There is no better way to sum up the day than in the words of those who shared the blessing of the day.
“Thank you all for your contributions and fellowship today! It was a beautiful Sabbath and a wonderful program by our youth and ToyGiveaway and good food. We appreciate you all so much! Hospitality, Youth Committee, and Personal Ministries.” Yolanda Davis” Today was a Blessed Day. All went well. I loved the Sermon, it was GREAT; I give God the GLORY. The kids were all fantastic. It would be GREAT if Sabbath School would look like the 12:00 Hour as it was today. I really did enjoy myself today.” Sister Gloria Gymkowski
“You all did a great job! As everyone else I especially enjoyed the youth in leadership! The future of the church is in great hands!” Eric Yancey, M.D.
“We know God gets the glory and He deserves it. I just want to thank you and the Hospitality Committee for the delicious food and hospitality. I also want to thank Sister Doris Johnson, Brother Johnson, Sister Shontae, Elder Randall Saunders, Sister Barbara Saunders and all other members of the Youth Committee for your powerful leadership. Your hard work did not go unnoticed in our service today. Worship Service was awesome.” Sister Sinda Rogers
“I must add to any list of Servant- Leaders... Imani Johnson, who said let’s meet to start planning for this Youth Day. And the culmination of everything is, Imani was in charge today!” Elder Randall Saunders