Youth Week of Prayer 2025

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Created to Bring Change!​

Though small, a mosquito can have a significant impact. Similarly, the 2025 prayer theme, "ACT: A Community Transformed," seeks to spread God's word in the 10/40 window, where many have yet to hear it. With over eight billion people globally, more than three billion are Christians, while others follow different faiths. Christians are guided by Matthew28:19-20 to make disciples of all nations.

Seventh-day Adventists, in particular, have a duty to share the three angels’ messages from Revelation 14:6-12 so everyone can make an informed choice. During this week of prayer, consider how you can contribute to this mission. We should identify communities that haven’t heard the end-time gospel message because we have been created in the image of God to inspire change. Through our efforts, communities can be transformed, echoing the spirit of the book of Acts. As those made in God’s image, we are uniquely equipped to influence for Jesus.

Bridging the Gap​

Jesus extended a simple invitation: "Follow Me." When inviting non-Christian friends or family to church, a decline is not the end. There are many ways to introduce them to Jesus, including inviting them to join in community projects like Global Youth Day. Encourage them to be a Jesus-follower alongside you.

This year’s Week of Prayer explores six different spiritual perspectives to help us understand how best to connect with those who don't know Jesus. People are complex, spanning cultures from Tibetan Buddhists to secular Westerners. The readings encourage building trust and respect, offering insights into commonalities that can lead to meaningful encounters with Jesus.

God’s love and salvation extend to all, including Buddhists, Hindus, and others, through spiritual rebirth. We are not called to argue people into faith but to share the gospel. Building relationships grounded in trust is key. Pray with us for open hearts and minds among families, friends, and neighbours, that they might embrace Christ.

Meet the Authors of Youth Week of Prayer 2025 Guide​

1. Kleyton Feitosa: Kleyton comes from Brazil, and is passionate about cross-cultural ministry, having worked in various countries as a pastor and teacher. He holds a bachelor's in theology and advanced degrees in Missions and Evangelism. Currently, he is the director of Global Mission Centers.
2. Khamsay Phetchareun: Dr. Phetchareun is an ordained minister and Global Mission Director at the Center for Adventist-Buddhist Relations. He has served in Australia, Myanmar, and teaches at Asia-Pacific International University. He holds several degrees, including a Doctor of Ministry.
3. Cliff Shameerudeen: Dr. Shameerudeen leads the Center for South Asian Religions. He focuses on church planting and supporting church planters globally.
4. Jonathan Contero: Jonathan is a missionary in Switzerland, previously involved in church planting in Madrid. He is dedicated to connecting secular audiences with faith and enjoys football, music, and cultural exploration.
5. Reinaldo Siqueira: Reinaldo holds a doctorate in Old Testament studies and serves as dean at Brazil Adventist University. He has held roles in Adventist-Jewish relations and is fluent in several languages.
6. Petras Bahadur: Dr. Bahadur is Director of Adventist-Muslim Relations, with extensive experience as a missiologist and educator. He has authored books on understanding Muslim worldviews.
7. Brendan Pratt: Dr. Pratt directs the Centre for Secular Post-Christian Mission in Melbourne. His research examines consumerism's impact on faith, and he is passionate about the church's role in representing God.
8. Bledi Leno: Leno is based in New York City where he leads the Center for Urban Mission, focusing on connecting people with God in urban areas. He is involved in church planting and revitalization efforts globally.

The materials and content for the Global Youth Day 2025 and Youth Week of Prayer 2025 Guide are shared by the General Conference.

In the thread below, I share a summary of the content for the Youth Week of Prayer.

Download Youth Week of Prayer 2025 pdf guide below.

 

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Not Just Any Location or a Random Decision?​

By Kleyton Fietosa, D.Min.

• Focus: Christian Mission
• Main Text: Luke 19:10 - "For the Son of Man came to seek and to save the lost."

Beyond Our Borders: The Global Call of Christian Mission​

We are called to journey beyond our familiar spiritual territories, like Jesus did when He ventured into the pagan Decapolis. This bold move was intentional, challenging societal norms and spiritual boundaries to bring light to dark places.

1. Jesus is Intentional: Mark 4:35 narrates Jesus' directive to go to the "other side" of the Sea of Galilee, confronting pagan practices and Roman power. This crossing was a spiritual mission, showing Jesus' purpose-driven approach.
2. Venturing into the Unknown: Crossing to Decapolis, the disciples faced fears in a region hostile to Jewish morals. Jesus' encounter with demon-possessed men highlighted the area's spiritual desolation.
3. Miracle and Rejection: In Decapolis, Jesus' miraculous healing of a demon-possessed man was met with fear and rejection, unlike the welcoming Galilee. This mirrors today's challenges in sharing the Gospel in resistant territories.
4. The Power of Testimony: Despite being rejected, the healed man was instructed to share his testimony in Decapolis, becoming the region’s first missionary. His story later paved the way for Jesus' return to a transformed, welcoming Decapolis.
5. Call to Modern Disciples: The 'other side' could be any unfamiliar or challenging environment today. We are called to bravely step out of comfort zones, carrying Christ's light to those waiting for hope and love.

Conclusion​

Christ calls us to courageously cross cultural and ideological borders. Our testimonies, like those in Decapolis, can break barriers and transform lives.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Thank you for convicting us to be here today. Give us the courage and strength to share Your word boldly, just like the early apostles. Amen.

Discussion Questions:​

1. What does Jesus' decision to cross to the "other side" teach us about stepping out of our comfort zones?
2. How does the reaction in Decapolis reflect today's challenges in sharing the Gospel?
3. How effective is personal testimony in evangelism compared to traditional methods, and how can we use our stories to reach others?

 

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The Unfinished Mission: Reaching Buddhists with the Gospel​

By Dr. Khamsay Phetchareun

• Focus: Buddhist Population
• Main Text: Matthew 28:18-20 - And Jesus came and spoke to them, saying, “All authority has been given to Me in heaven and on earth. Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.”

Jesus' Command​

Jesus instructed His followers to spread the gospel to all nations. Currently, only a fraction of Buddhists has been introduced to Christianity, despite Buddhism being the fourth-largest religion globally. Buddhism is majorly divided into three branches: Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana. The majority of Theravada Buddhists are found in Southeast Asia, with very few converts to Christianity. Similarly, Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhists remain largely unreached, with Christianity growing slower than Buddhism in traditionally Christian countries. This situation calls for urgent action to introduce the gospel to Buddhists, especially as more Christians switch to Buddhism than vice versa.

Practical Do’s and Don’ts​

Do’s:​

1. Be a Friend First: Build relationships through kindness.
2. Pray for Them: Offer prayers for their needs.
3. Teach English: Use language classes to share faith.
4. Serve Simply: Meet basic needs.

Don’ts:​

1. Don’t Criticize: Focus on sharing love rather than debating beliefs.
2. Don’t Expect Quick Results: Be patient with conversions.
3. Don’t Go Alone: Build a support network.

Conclusion​

The mission field among Buddhists is vast and largely untapped. Jesus’ call to spread the gospel is urgent, and it is vital for young people to step up and engage in this mission. The Lord needs willing hearts to reach out, share kindness, and spread His message. Will you answer the call?

Prayer: Dear Lord, We come to You ready to serve and share Your love. Guide us in faith to reach those unaware of Your good news. Grant us courage and wisdom to heed Your call. May our actions reflect Your grace. We pray for open hearts among our Buddhist friends and Your Spirit to lead them to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Discussion Questions:​

1. Why do we hesitate to spread the gospel to Buddhist nations, and how can we overcome these barriers?
2. How can we intentionally build relationships with Buddhists to share the gospel both locally and globally?
3. How can our church encourage young adults to engage in missions, especially in urgent areas like Southeast Asia?

 

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Crossing Cultural Barriers​

By Dr. Cliff Shameerudeen

• Focus: Hindu Population
• Main Text: 1 Peter 3:15 (NIV) "But in your hearts revere Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."

Introduction – Hinduism​

South Asians often conjure images of culture, festivals, and spicy food. Many South Asians, especially from India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka, are Hindus. "Hindu" was coined by the British in the 19th century, referring to India's predominant religious practices. Approximately 1.2 billion Hindus exist globally. Hinduism is a "family of religions," comprising philosophical and popular traditions. It's seen as a way of life encompassing moral, spiritual, and social domains.

Comparison between Adventism and Hinduism​

• Family Values: Adventists and Hindus share family values such as sacrifice, love, and religious observance. Both respect family worship with the father as the spiritual leader. Both honour elders and ancestors.
• Spiritual Life: Not all Hindus worship idols; some worship no gods or one deity. Misunderstandings about each other's rituals exist. Hindus and Adventists share a journey towards a spiritual relationship with God.
• Salvation: Hindus aim for moksha (salvation), achieved through rituals, unlike Christianity where salvation is a free gift from God. Sharing Christian assurance of salvation with Hindus should be handled with care.
• Devotional Life: Both religions emphasise devotion to God, albeit through different practices and purposes. Hindus engage in daily worship and rituals, similar to Adventist practices of devotion.

Building a Bridge​

God's mission includes blessing all nations, including Hindus. Adventists are called to connect with Hindus, fostering friendships and trust.

Understanding Hindus​

Adventists should become "known" in Hindu communities as non-threatening. Christ’s method of mingling and showing sympathy can transform worldviews.

Belonging before Becoming​

Discipleship can begin before a person accepts Jesus. Hindus should feel welcome in the Adventist community to experience God’s love.

Do's and Don'ts: Avoid loaded terms like "conversion." Baptism should be a celebrated choice, not pressured, being a part of one's spiritual journey.

Witnessing Opportunities​

Pray for Hindus and engage in meaningful, trusting relationships. Share Bible stories that resonate with their learning style and experience, focusing on common values.

Appeal​

Young Adventists are called to share God’s love with Hindus. Begin with prayer and friendship, building social and spiritual connections to share the gospel.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for our Hindu brothers and sisters and the chance to share Your love with them. Help us approach them with humility and compassion. May our actions reflect Your grace, and may Your Spirit prepare their hearts for Jesus Christ. Amen.

Discussion Questions​

1. How can we share our faith with Hindus with gentleness and respect?
2. How can building relationships with Hindus open doors to sharing the gospel?
3. What common values between Adventism and Hinduism can help us share the hope of salvation?

 

[Chief]

Your City, Your Mission​

By Jonathan Contero

• Focus: Consumerism
• Main Text: 1 Corinthians 3:16 - "Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you?"

A European missionary recounts a teenage experience of rebellion and a night spent at a police station. This story prompts reflection on our perception of God and the church's role in society. It challenges us to consider whether we embrace those needing restoration, regardless of faith. Join me in exploring the Bible's depiction of the church's purpose for the city. The church is not a building but a community, a living body essential for salvation, service, and spreading the Gospel. We are God's temples, and our actions reflect His presence.

Lessons:​

1. God takes initiative and draws near to us.
2. His presence isn't confined to buildings but within us.
3. The church is dynamic, seeking to save the lost.

Reflection:​

1. How do we build a church that fulfills God's purpose?
2. How can we embrace all people as God embraces us?
3. Ultimately, Jesus becomes the Temple again, eternally dwelling among us.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for dwelling with us. Help us to be living temples of Your Spirit, sharing Your love and Good News. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Discussion Questions​

1. What are the essential elements of the biblical church?
2. How can we better align our churches for this purpose?
3. Do secular people develop their forms of "church"?

 

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Love Your Jewish Neighbour as Yourself!​

By Reinaldo W. Siqueira, Ph.D.

• Focus: Jewish Population
• Main Text: Ephesians 2:24 - "For He Himself is our peace, who has made both one, and has broken down the middle wall of separation."

The Bible teaches that love is the foundational principle of God's creation. John states, "He who does not love does not know God, for God is love." (1 John 4:8). Paul adds that without love, all other achievements are meaningless (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). The greatest commandment is to love God and our neighbour (Matthew 22:37-40).

Seventh-day Adventists are called to love everyone as God does. This includes loving Jewish people, despite the historical prejudices and suffering they have faced, such as during the Holocaust. Hatred based on past accusations like "they killed Jesus" is unjust, as Jesus himself forgave his persecutors. Paul emphasises that God has not rejected the Jewish people (Romans 11:1-2).

Ellen G. White noted that God's love continues towards Jewish people, with a call for Christians to engage with them positively (The Acts of the Apostles: Chapter 35 - "Salvation to the Jews"). Adventists should identify themselves clearly and engage in conversations that highlight shared beliefs, such as Sabbath observance, encouraging understanding and respect.

We are to speak words that bless and reflect the love of God, demonstrating true love for our Jewish neighbours.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Guide us to love our Jewish neighbours, fostering relationships built on compassion and peace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Discussion Questions:​

1. How can we embody Christ's principle of breaking down separation walls in our relationships with those of different faiths or cultures?
2. How can Seventh-day Adventists show Christ's love and build understanding with the Jewish community?
3. How does "love your neighbour as yourself" challenge us in our attitudes towards historically marginalised groups, including the Jewish community?

 

[Chief]

God’s Plan for Ishmael Before the End of Time​

By Dr. Petras Bahadur

• Focus: Muslim Population
• Main Text: Isaiah 60: 6-7 - "The multitude of camels shall cover your land, The dromedaries of Midian and Ephah; All those from Sheba shall come; They shall bring gold and incense, And they shall proclaim the praises of the LORD. All the flocks of Kedar shall be gathered together to you, The rams of Nebaioth shall minister to you; They shall ascend with acceptance on My altar, And I will glorify the house of My glory."

The prophecy in Isaiah 60 highlights a significant biblical mission to all nations, particularly the "Children of the East". Often overlooked, it details God's plans for the descendants of Abraham not just through Isaac but also through Hagar and Keturah. Abraham had three wives and multiple sons. Midian, Ephah, Sheba are Keturah's children and Kedar, Nebaioth are Ishmael's. Genesis reveals their lineage, and they play crucial roles in biblical narratives, such as saving Joseph and sheltering Moses. In Matthew, the wise men from the East (descendants of Ishmael) visit Jesus' birth, fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy of bringing gifts and honouring God. However, the full prophecy – Ishmael's children bringing offerings on God's altar – is yet to be realized, expected before Christ's return. This prophecy emphasizes a universal salvation plan, and the inclusion of Ishmael's descendants underscores God's universal love. The Church is encouraged to embrace this mission, fostering unity, understanding, and respect with Muslim communities as part of God’s plan.

Prayer: Dear loving God, we are grateful for your love for everyone, from East to West and the whole world. In Isaiah 60:7, we see the prophecy of the Children of Ishmael coming, and while it hasn't yet occurred in great numbers, we trust it will be fulfilled before Jesus' Second Coming. As the world approaches its climax, help us welcome them into your house and bless your work. In Your Name, we pray, Amen.

Discussion Questions:​

1. How does Isaiah 60:6-7 reflect God's inclusive salvation? Consider the role of the "Children of the East" in today’s outreach.
2. What can we learn from the Ishmaelites and Midianites' roles in biblical stories? How might these inspire unity today?
3. How can the church reach out to descendants of Ishmael, and what challenges must be overcome?

 

[Chief]

A Community Transformed​

By Dr. Brendan Pratt

• Focus: Secular Population
• Main Text: Romans 12:1-2 - "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

Paul urges believers to offer themselves as living sacrifices and not conform to secular consumer culture, which prioritises individualism and materialism over community and spiritual growth. This culture fosters loneliness and superficial happiness through endless consumer pursuits, shaping our desires and identities.

Are you chasing fulfilment? Consumerism promises happiness through possessions, but it's an unending quest. This reading explores secular consumer culture's challenges and how biblical community offers a counter-cultural alternative.

• The Culture We Live In: Paul's words caution against conforming to worldly patterns, heavily influenced by consumerism, which defines our hopes and identity. With numerous daily ads, this culture tells us what to desire.
• Consumerism Destroys Community: Consumer culture correlates with increased loneliness. Relationships are sacrificed for the illusion of happiness. The individual becomes the focus, even in worship and church, reducing God to a provider of wants.
• Transformed versus Conformed: Paul advocates transformation over conformity, urging a shift from consumerism to a focus on serving, connecting, and growing spiritually. Being a 'living sacrifice' transcends education and product choices.
• The Sabbath and Transformed Community: Observing the Sabbath offers hope against consumerism, disconnecting from incessant busyness to connect with God and others. It resists instant gratification, promoting stillness and deeper engagement.
• Intergenerational Connections, Death and Community: Interactions across generations and contemplating mortality reduce consumerism's hold, reminding us of life’s true values beyond material possessions. The resurrection promises eternal community.
• Daniel in Babylon: Daniel's story exemplifies thriving in a consumerist empire by prioritising God and community. This mindset ensures life is lived for God's glory.
• Transformed Community is the Answer: True community opposes consumerism's individualism. Romans 12 outlines life as worship, service, connection, growth, and sharing. These elements form counter-cultural communities challenging consumerism.

Tips for Living Beyond Consumer Culture:​

1. Reflect on advertising messages.
2. Prioritise relationships.
3. Serve others.
4. Be generous.
5. Celebrate the Sabbath.
6. Engage with older generations.
7. Spend time in nature.
8. Recalibrate priorities.

Consumerism is deeply embedded, but Christians are called to a different story, focusing on transformation, serving, and valuing relationships over self. This journey is crucial for shaping communities that resist consumerism.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, Help us focus on Your eternal purpose over consumerism. Guide us to share Your message in a materialistic world and lead lives reflecting Your love and grace. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Discussion Questions:​

1. What steps can you take to resist consumerism?
2. How can the Sabbath help disconnect from consumer culture?
3. How does being a "living sacrifice" help build a Christ-centered community?

 

[Chief]

A Tale of Cities​

By Bledi Leno

• Focus: The Cities
• Main Text: Revelation 21:2–3 (ESV): "2 And I saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. 3 And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God."

The Bible, often seen as rural, is actually an urban text, with cities playing crucial roles in biblical narratives. Ancient cities like Ur and Nineveh were vast and advanced. In biblical times, cities like Babylon, Ephesus, and Rome were highly developed, often surpassing later European cities for centuries. Key biblical figures and events were urban-focused. David ruled Jerusalem, prophets like Isaiah were committed to it, and Jesus' crucifixion involved urban powers. Even Paul’s letters were urban ministry guides. The Bible's urban nature contrasts with our rural theological perspectives. Despite the Bible's urban origins, European theology developed rural themes. Cities in Scripture represent spiritual battlegrounds, with Babylon symbolising corruption and Jerusalem as God's ideal city. Every city embodies elements of both Babylon and Jerusalem, a battleground for good and evil. Cities mattered to God throughout biblical history, reflecting both individual and corporate salvation in theological context. Systems within a city—economic, political, religious—shape its life. Like Moses’ guidance to Israel, cities today also need justice and stewardship principles rooted in a relationship with God.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, guide us to transform our cities to honour Your name and bring Your peace. In Jesus' name. Amen.

Discussion Questions​

1. How do Babylon and Jerusalem manifest in your city?
2. How can Christians promote God’s justice in urban settings?
3. How does viewing salvation corporately affect your faith perspective?
4. What actions can support justice and stewardship in your community?