Youth Rush: Young Lives on a Mission This Summer
Each summer, dozens of young people across the Central California Conference choose to spend ten weeks doing something bold, challenging, and life-changing. Instead of relaxing through the break, they step into neighborhoods, knock on doors, share literature, offer prayer, and bring hope. This is Youth Rush—a summer literature evangelism program where youth don’t just grow in faith; they live it.
With the deadline to apply quickly approaching on May 25, there’s still time to sign up. And for those wondering if it's worth it, here’s what you should know: Youth Rush is more than just canvassing—it's spiritual boot camp, leadership training, and real-world ministry all wrapped into one.
Faith in Action
The mission is simple: spread the gospel through books that point people to Christ and offer practical help—books on health, family, and personal growth. But the experience is anything but ordinary.
Each day begins with worship and training, followed by long hours in the sun, walking neighborhoods, meeting strangers, and trusting God for every conversation. Participants often enter the summer nervous and unsure, but they leave transformed—more confident in their faith, closer to God, and full of powerful testimonies.
Led by Purpose
At the heart of the program is Pastor John Miller, director of the Literature Ministries Department for the Central California Conference. With decades of experience and a heart for evangelism, Pastor Miller is both organizer and mentor. He doesn’t just send youth out—he trains, supports, and walks the journey with them.
“Youth Rush is one of the most effective ways for young people to learn what it means to be a disciple,” Pastor Miller says. “It builds character, strengthens faith, and creates a hunger for mission that lasts a lifetime.”
Under his leadership, Youth Rush teams are not only trained in canvassing but also taught how to grow spiritually, work in teams, manage their time, and lead by example. Many youth rush alumni have gone on to become pastors, teachers, and missionaries. Some even return as team leaders or coordinators to pour back into the program.
Youth Rush is one of the most effective ways for young people to learn what it means to be a disciple.
Real Ministry, Real Growth
The stories coming out of Youth Rush speak for themselves: People accepting Bible studies. Families reconnecting with God. Youth discovering their spiritual gifts and purpose.
Beyond the doors and books, what Youth Rush teaches is that God still works through willing hearts. And for many participants, that realization is what defines their summer—and their future.
Still Time to Apply
The good news? It’s not too late to be part of this powerful ministry. If your or a young person you know is between the ages of 16 and 25 and are looking for a way to grow spiritually, build friendships, earn scholarship money, and serve God in a meaningful way, Youth Rush is for you.
Applications are open until May 25, and the summer program runs for ten weeks—from June to mid-August. Participants receive training, housing, and a transportation, along with spiritual support and mentorship throughout the program.
Interested youth and parents can learn more and apply at www.youthrushcentral.com.
A Call to the Church
Whether you're a parent, pastor, teacher, or church member—consider how you can support Youth Rush this year. Pray for the teams. Encourage a young person to apply. Invite them to share their testimonies at your church when they return. Ministry doesn’t only happen behind pulpits or in mission fields overseas—it happens at front doors, in small towns and big cities, one book and one conversation at a time.
Youth Rush is more than a summer job. It’s a call to mission—and a chance for young people to discover just how powerful God can be when they step out in faith.”
■ By John Miller
Young Adults Partner with Hispanic Church in Modesto to Launch Contemporary Worship Service
In a bold move to foster greater youth engagement and spiritual growth, the Modesto Hispanic Seventh-day Adventist Church partnered with a group of young adults to launch an English-speaking contemporary worship service designed specifically for young adults and young families. The new service debuted on March 1, 2025.
“We want our young people in church and will do what we can to make that happen,” said a member of the church board, reflecting the congregation’s commitment to youth ministry.
The initiative was inspired by a group of passionate young adults from the Modesto area with a shared vision of making Jesus known through worship and discipleship. Their efforts culminated in a vibrant launch event that drew dozens of attendees from across the region.
“You could feel the anticipation in the atmosphere from the moment you walked in,” said Josue Hernandez, the pastor leading the new service. “People are excited to be part of something new and meaningful.”
The worship service featured a live band with piano, electric guitar, acoustic guitars, bass, and drums, complemented by a team of vocalists leading energetic and uplifting music. The message delivered was concise and thought-provoking, followed by an invitation for attendees to join discipleship groups aimed at fostering deeper community and spiritual growth.
One young couple who attended the service for the first time shared their enthusiasm: “We really enjoyed the service and will definitely be back again.”
Initial turnout and positive feedback indicate that the new format is meeting a significant need in the community, particularly among young families. In a show of solidarity and adaptability, the Hispanic congregation adjusted its main worship service from 11:00 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. to accommodate the new schedule. Spanish-language services are now held first, followed by Sabbath school in the upstairs classrooms. Both services conclude around the same time, allowing members to come together for a communal potluck meal.
“The church and its leaders have been very supportive,” said Pastor Hernandez. “This type of collaboration shows our commitment to the next generation.”
The leadership behind the initiative has a clear mission: to create a spiritual environment that not only attracts young people but also nurtures long-term growth. “The city of Modesto is growing exponentially, so we are thinking strategically and planning for the future,” Hernandez added. “Our goal is to reach more people for Jesus.”
Pastor Hernandez also expressed gratitude for the team behind the scenes, acknowledging their dedication and effort. “It takes a lot of commitment to make something like this happen. I am grateful for each person on our team.”
The core leadership team includes Kenny and Sheryl Fluence, David Bui, Jasmine Ramos, Mike Eddens, Jaira Luna and the Luna family, Manny Jimenez, Uriel and Kaylee Carmona, Jose Arredondo, Reiss Ramirez, and Joseph Zenith.
More information about the service can be found at www.abidesda.org.
■ By Reiss Ramirez
