Maranatha Church in Jackson, Tenn., held a spiritually invigorating Youth Day program under the theme “War Cry,” on Sabbath, August 15, 2026.
The program commenced during the Sabbath School hour with a dynamic message delivered by Summer Wood, Ph.D., former principal of F.H. Jenkins Nashville Adventist Academy. Wood presented a compelling and Spirit filled lesson that immediately engaged the congregation. Her message emphasized spiritual readiness, personal accountability, and the urgency of standing firm in faith. The congregation responded with visible enthusiasm, rising to the occasion, affirming to be in Duty status of Active, Reserve, Deployment, or Individual Ready Reserve.
Throughout the service, the youth presented a creative radio style skit that aired periodically between segments. This ongoing feature served as a thematic thread, reinforcing the “War Cry” message and encouraging the congregation to reflect on the spiritual battles faced by today’s young people. The skit demonstrated the youth’s dedication, preparation, and desire to communicate biblical truth in innovative ways.
The worship experience was further enriched by Strings of Praise, whose musical selections elevated the congregation into a deeper atmosphere of reverence and praise. Their performance provided a moment of reflection and spiritual uplift, seamlessly complementing the day’s emphasis on spiritual strength and perseverance.
During divine worship, the church paused to honor the achievements of its youth. Acknowledgment and words of affirmation were shared, highlighting academic accomplishments, ministry involvement, and personal growth. This segment underscored Maranatha’s commitment to nurturing young leaders and celebrating their contributions to the life of the Church.
The second featured speaker, Christian Stepney, a junior theology major at Oakwood University, delivered a powerful sermon drawn from the first chapter of Jude. His message was marked by clarity, boldness, and deep biblical conviction. Stepney’s presentation resonated strongly with the congregation, prompting vocal responses of agreement and encouragement. His call to spiritual vigilance and doctrinal faithfulness aligned seamlessly with the “War Cry” theme, leaving a lasting impression on all in attendance.
The presence and ministry of both Wood and Stepney demonstrated the value of empowering young leaders within the Seventh-day Adventist Church, and affirmed the importance of providing platforms for emerging voices who are committed to preaching the Word with clarity and conviction.
In conclusion, the 2026 Youth Day was a meaningful and spiritually energizing event. Through preaching, music, drama, and recognition, the youth boldly declared their “War Cry,” calling the congregation to renewed commitment, spiritual readiness, and unwavering faith in Christ. The day stands as a testament to the power of youth ministry and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit within the Church.
South Central | October 2026
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