Personal from Ministerial and Member Services

March 31, 2022
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In this personal from MMS, Mark Welch recounts his trip to Georgia last weekend, where teens gathered for the Southeast Regional Prom.

This past weekend I had the opportunity to visit the Atlanta and Buford, Georgia, congregations that were combined to host the Southeast Regional Prom. There were approximately 90 who attended this prom for ages 12-25, plus many other members and parents who gathered for services and to fellowship with one another in various ways.

The theme for this prom was “A Night in Morocco,” and the beautiful and authentic decorations certainly gave everyone that feel. I even noticed a photo-op involved riding on a magic carpet!

Once again, there were parents who traveled long distances to ensure their teenagers were able to gather for the prom. A few I had also seen at the prom in Parkersburg, West Virginia, two weeks ago.

The newest camp video was played for the sermonette time. Once again, the media and camp teams did an excellent job producing this video. No doubt some of the teenagers present in Atlanta got to see themselves and their friends having a great time at camp!

Dr. Philip Aust, who pastors the Atlanta and Buford congregations, gave the sermon entitled “COVID’s Chief Lesson: Connections Count.” Dr. Aust discussed the need for teens and others to be sure to take advantage of opportunities to fellowship and interact with one another, because meaningful relationship connections really count for something very positive and vital to all human beings. He mentioned that the isolation that so many people experienced was COVID-19’s most negative effect. He emphasized that due to the pandemic’s impact over the last couple years, it is even more important to connect with one another at events like this one!

Once again, at this event, I took advantage of interacting with many members and ministers and also met some members for the first time. Being a part of God’s family at this time should encourage us to see the value in developing relationships that will strengthen us and serve others—as well as establish a foundational relationship that will last forever!

Wishing you all a very inspiring Sabbath day!