The Youth Worship Night held in February marked the beginning of our 2025 youth and young adult programmes in the Buffalo Section of the Eastern Cape Division. The event aimed to create a spiritually uplifting atmosphere where young people could experience God’s presence, connect with peers, and strengthen their faith.
Attendance and Guests
The event brought together 88 young people from various corps in the Buffalo Section, along with parents and leaders. Special guests included: Captain Zothani Ntuli (DYO), Captain Mandisa Ntuli (DCMO), Captain Xoli Nxumalo (East London Corps), Corps Leader Mrs. Noziphiwo Ludwaba (Zwelitsha Corps), Cadet Sidney Shabangu (Tshoxa Corps) and Cadet Fikile Rhadebe (Ginsberg Corps).
We were also blessed to welcome five young people who were worshiping with The Salvation Army for the first time—we give God all the glory for their lives!
Programme Highlights
The programme was designed to be engaging and interactive, incorporating praise, worship, prayer, Scripture teachings, and testimonies. The night began with vibrant praise and worship, with prayer and intercession woven throughout, setting the tone for the evening. Captains Zothani and Mandisa Ntuli led a responsive reading and Scripture teaching. Captain Zothani read from Psalm 148:1–14, emphasizing the call to praise God in all circumstances. Captain Mandisa taught on the theme “Finding Joy in Worship”, linking it with the power of prayer. The message emphasized that worship is a lifestyle of gratitude and trust in God.
Prayer Stations
After the Bible teaching, young people were led into a powerful time of prayer, experiencing the Holy Spirit’s presence in their lives. Prayer stations were set up around the hall, allowing for personal and interactive prayer experiences:
Personal Requests (Led by Cadet Sidney): A prayer box was provided for personal requests. Each participant wrote down a prayer request and then prayed for the person sitting next to them—without knowing their specific request.
Youth Challenges (Led by Cadet Fikile): This station addressed common youth challenges, including alcohol and drug abuse, peer pressure, the pursuit of a “soft life,” mental health struggles, and spiritual identity. The goal was to present the church as a safe space where young people could be vulnerable and open about their struggles.
Youth and Children’s Ministry Department (Led by Captain Xoli Nxumalo): This station highlighted the importance of a strong Youth and Children’s Ministry within the Southern Africa Territory. It focused on the need for Spirit-filled leaders, commissioned YP locals, and vibrant youth and children’s ministries that foster spiritual growth.
Mercy Seat/Altar (Led by Captain Zothani): This station provided a sacred space for commitment. Young people were invited to pray, with leaders available to pray over them.
Testimonies
A highlight of the evening was the powerful testimonies shared:
A young woman shared how she was deeply moved by a symbolic graduation gown displayed at one of the prayer stations. She felt reassured that, despite her academic struggles, God was with her and she would achieve her goals. A parent shared how the event had impacted her spiritually and emotionally, testifying to the uplifting atmosphere created through worship and prayer. Another young woman shared a gratitude testimony, expressing joy over the miracle of her and her sister securing jobs at their dream company—a place they had prayed for years to work at. Her story was a testament to God’s faithfulness and guidance.
Looking Ahead
The Youth Worship Night was a significant milestone, setting the tone for future gatherings that will nurture and grow young people in our division. The interactive format, especially the prayer stations, was a highlight and should be incorporated into future events.
As we move forward, we will focus on spiritual growth through activities such as: Bible study sessions, Night prayers, and Additional worship nights.
We thank everyone who contributed to the success of this event and look forward to even greater participation in the future. All glory to God!