Youth Are Beloved Across the South
By Gloria Diavangama /
The Southern Territory held its annual Youth Councils this spring, gathering just over 2300 young people in a series of retreats centered on the theme “Beloved.” Inspired by 1 John 4:7-12, the gatherings reminded all that we are called to love God and one another.
Throughout the territory, every delegate and leader heard the same powerful truth: God’s love is not earned but received, and it is meant to be shared. This message resonated deeply and was reflected in a powerful response as over 2000 people sought their Maker at the altar across the four weekends and eight divisions.
The events also fostered fellowship among young people, creating spaces where participants could grow spiritually, support one another, and respond to God’s calling upon their lives.
Spirit-filled worship experiences were a highlight of each weekend, with young people actively contributing through music and creative arts, highlighting the hard work and dedication of divisional music and arts groups over the past year.
Other highlights were Love in Action projects: Florida made care packages to support the ministries of corps throughout the division, Potomac made hygiene kits for shelters around the Capital and wrote letters to government officials advocating for those who live with food insecurity, and Texas held a Love in Action fair showing different practical ways to share love within our communities.
In the North & South Carolina (NSC) Division, the first-ever Red Shield Youth Center Youth Leadership Award was presented, alongside the debut of the Burger Boyz, a special divisional jazz band.
Additionally, 53 corps cadets graduated from the BOLD curriculum, highlighting the ongoing commitment to youth discipleship and leadership development in our territory.
Future officer initiatives were held across the divisions with the Calling Café in Alabama-Louisiana- Mississippi, the Late Night 730 Little Debbie reception in Florida, the 730 breakfast in Kentucky-Tennessee, the 730 Soda Drop in NSC, and Q&As with current cadets. In total, 99 young people responded to the call for future officership and 144 for local officership.
Leaders across the divisions point to the unity, fellowship, and visible response to God’s love as some of the most significant outcomes of this year’s councils.
We continue to pray for all the souls touched at Youth Councils this year and for the leaders who support them in their walk with Jesus. With hearts stirred and lives impacted, the 2026 Youth Councils will continue to remind this generation that they are, indeed, Beloved.
