Major Miraflor Vicente, territorial youth and children’s secretary, and Major Gerardo Vicente, corps program secretary, warmly welcomed Captains Marc and Mariska Potters, youth and children’s officers from The Salvation Army International Headquarters (IHQ). 

The international youth and children’s officers visited the Educational Services Incorporated (ESI) Caloocan branch in Manila, where around 40 children between three and six years old attended with their parents and guardians. During the service, the children and their families celebrated the day with joyful dances and songs guided by Marjorie D. Cordoba, who has dedicated the last 30 years to working for The Salvation Army as a teacher in the Caloocan Corps. Even after hours, she is passionate about building the community and nurturing her neighbors.

On April 27, Salvationists from the Central Philippines Division (CPD) gathered in Manila to joyously embrace and commemorate the IDCY 2024, which shined a spotlight on the vibrant cultural tapestry that has long defined the Salvation Army community in the country.

Captains Marc and Mariska Potters shared their heartfelt sentiments: “Meeting and celebrating with people is the most rewarding part of our role. It’s all about people — everything is about people — so being able to travel and celebrate with you all is truly a blessing.”

The youth and children’s section at IHQ prepared a livestream to celebrate the IDCY across different countries. This year, the THQ in the Philippines opened its space to build a studio for the occasion.

Throughout the event, youth members engaged in dialogue with Salvationists from different countries, delving into the composition of the song “Grow” from the Korean Territory and showcasing the active participation of youth within The Salvation Army. The sentiments expressed by the youth were varied and profound, nonetheless representing young people’s fiery passion and drive to help move God’s Kingdom forward. Soldier Angelica Sulit led an engaging interview, inviting attendees to share their perspectives.

Commissioner Edward Hill, Chief of the Staff, delivered a moving message, likening spiritual growth to a tree and stressing the importance of spiritual disciplines such as prayer, service and worship.

Despite the incredible heat and humidity, the celebration of the IDCY 2024 proceeded at CB Mall in Urdaneta, Pangasinan.

Around 300 children and youth of the Northern Luzon Division displayed their incredible talent by showcasing various performances. This included dance praise, youth brass band, timbrel displays and cultural dances.

Captain Marc Potters shared an inspirational life testimony, while Captain Mariska Potters delivered an inspiring message to the young people gathered together. She said, “God believes in people who do not believe in themselves. You have strength, and God is at work in you. You can lead and make a difference.”

May the youth continuously be reminded and inspired by the message of Captain Marc Potters: “You are never too small or too young to make an impact, so if you think you’re insignificant, you’ve got it wrong. You are important.”

Based on a report from IHQ Communications