by Allister Lane

These words of Mr Dobbyn ring authentically for me as a theme tune to the recent Connect Youth Assembly. I am one of those who choose to focus their energies on ministering with the youth of the church. And although I can find it tough, lonely and frustrating work, it can also be work where I sense I'm making a real difference and can be what often energises my faith.

Youth Leaders gathered from all around New Zealand in the weekend before the General Assembly. St Patrick's College in Silverstream is known as a rugby-driven, staunchly Roman Catholic institution but in late September, it experienced a scrum of Presbyterianism more formidable than the Reformation itself.

We gathered to share our experience of the Presbyterian tradition and to be encouraged by those with similar passion. I observed how we were enthused by our time together as we took time out to talk and laugh and sing. We energised each other by osmosis.

An important dynamic identified during Connect was the loyalty we, as youth leaders, felt to the church and its mission. We acknowledged the tensions, the frustrations and the differences of generational expectations. But many of us were surprised by the hope we identified within ourselves for a church that offers opportunities for growth (Please note that loyalty is an uncharacteristic trait of the Generation of people labelled X, who are stereo-typed as
being consumer-driven in choice, expectant of change and cynical of institutions). Those at Connect were there because of a loyalty to the Presbyterian Church. I suspect that we would be further encouraged to know that all over New Zealand there are those of us loyal to working with young people within the Presbyterian Church.

Over the weekend, we focussed on channelling this strong vein of loyalty into a positive and healthy vision for effectiveness in our work with youth. The vision is beautifully simple and has been born from many, many visits over recent months to grassroots work around New Zealand by Mo Mansill the committed National Youth Co-ordinator.

The strategy of channelling our energies into connecting on a national level has begun at Connect. I look forward to seeing the connecting continue at regional and local level and to gather with other youth leaders again next year. I feel called to move ahead sharing in the Presbyterian tradition and exploring new opportunities of what it means to work with youth. So call me loyal and I'll call you loyal too.

Allister Lane
Ordinand of the Presbyterian Church and member of St Johns in the City faith community