You are young. You are important.

I had the privilege of joining this terms Hill Zone Youth Night sharing a bit about myself, PULSE and a short talk. With a bit of reflecting, I think it is important to share my brief talk of encouragement with the wider community.

To the young people of our communities, know that you are worthy. Whether in Church, in school, in friendship groups, with your families, and life in general. The Pulse team is a small step in the church recognising and moving to prioritise the importance of young people. And not just young people in the church, but young people full stop. Period. We are just as important as everyone else in Kingdom of God.

At times, it may not seem like it, especially when we are at times easily dismissed and not listened to because of our age, because we don’t have as much “life experience”, but know that we hold our own wisdom. Our voices do matter, our experiences matter, even if they’re different from how others experience life, how our parents experienced life or our great grandparents experienced life.

Don’t be afraid to use your voice, because while you are growing and learning every day in school, in youth group, in church, in life, others can also learn from you, your knowledge, and experiences.

So remember this,

You are young, but do not let anyone treat you as if you were not important. Be an example to show the believers how they should live. Show them with your words, with the way you live, with your love, with your faith, and with your integrity.
1 Timothy 4:12

Ofa Foiakau is the Field Officer (Central/West), and responsible for youth/high school ministry as a part of the PULSE team.