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Love Forum – 100% Pure
By Maria Surajdeen
On February 3rd at Fatima Parish Hall, CFC Youth for Christ presented, for the third time, Love Forum 2007. This year’s theme was”100% Pure”.
CFC Youth for Christ is made up of youths who intend to change their lives according to God’s will. This program is oriented towards meeting the needs of young people to be motivated; to be useful; to be good examples and also to be Christian witnesses. It has put a premium on four characteristics. It is fun filled, builds friendships, enhances the faith and allows the young to be free but responsible at the same time.
This was my first experience at Love Forum and I am obliged to say that it was astounding, remarkable, tremendous and the list can go on and on. The hall was overflowing with youths who were willing to give their lives God by praising and worshipping His name. Youths from different parts of T&T attended including St. Joseph, St. Augustine, Rio Claro, Diego Martin, Arouca, Paramin, Maraval, San Juan and also Providence Girls’ High School. It was a Christ-centred, Spirit-filled milieu where outstretched hands and open hearts were palpable. The youths exhibited gusto in glorifying God’s name. Those who were present displayed no sense of shame in making time to attend such a God-filled day.
One of the youths present Carl-Ann Joseph shared a talk. She based it on being 100% pure. This included ten stances which were 100% alcohol free, no to drugs, smoke free, no to gay lifestyle, no to masturbation, virgin and proud, true love waits, pure in mind and speech, no to pornography and lastly pre-life (against abortion; contraceptives etc.)
Being 100% pure means:
To be pure in mind - by rejecting all forms of evil thoughts and desires including lustful ideas and malice of any kind. Also by rejecting any sort of pornographic materials
To be pure in body – by not engaging in any form of sexual activities outside of marriage; together with disallowing oneself to engage in any forms of addiction such as masturbation, cigarettes, alcohol and drugs.
To be pure in heart - by refusing all forms of violent tendencies, selfish ambition, resentments, bitterness and abusive language/
 There was a 100% pure dare to be covenant card where one had to make a commitment with God to have a lifestyle worthy in His eyes and so was encouraged to sign the card. I believe that lives of those who were present are now changed. One of the activities was a fashion show where some of the youths modeled in their white outfits. All had been encouraged to wear white since it was a 100% pure party. This was followed by a ”Dance-OFF” led by Erika Castro. The program concluded with all the youths fellowshipping and having a great time.
Many teenagers believe that being a part of Youth for Christ is without doubt down right boring but as a new member of this ministry it is such a blessing and I am ecstatic to know that I am part of such a motivating heartening, inspirational family. I consider it a blessing. In closing, I am grateful for CFC and ask God to continue showering His blessings on this ministry and all who are involved so that we, not only grow, but move forward. |
