Harvest Times chats with Dave and Silvara Thong, the talented couple who currently pastors the youth ministry at Rhema Church in Sitiawan Malaysia, a member of the network of churches under the Harvest School of Ministry in Skudai.

Dave and Silvara began their work among the youth in 2003. Having just returned from their work-cum-study stint in America, the couple started to reach out and minister to the youth in Rhema Church. Previously, the church had a primarily adult-focused ministry, while youth in the congregation faithfully served God alongside the adult members, supporting the church through the various ministries.

However, after injecting much passion and love into the initial core group of young believers, Dave and Silvara witnessed the fruit of their labor as the youth ministry began to expand.

Shares Dave. "At the start of 2006, we decided to focus on all the young people in the church and plant a vision into their hearts. Throughout the year, we challenged them and concentrated on helping them to mature in the Lord.

"During our Christmas Big Day services, we geared them up one week before the main service by conducting three youth revival meetings. We also organized a Christmas Party three days before Christmas Day and everyone had the chance to reach out and invite their friends. We had a wonderful time!

Silvara, who heads the worship ministry in the church, is equally passionate about the youth under her care. "I really believe that youth today are the future of society; they are the next generation of leaders and people who will determine how culture will evolve. As such, it is so important that we make an impact in their lives today while they are young."

It is apparent Silvara enjoys what she does as the music director in Rhema Church. The gifted singer considers it pure joy that she is doing what she enjoys most: expressing her love for Cod through her God-given inclination toward music. "When God calls you to do something, He will equip you with the right tools and enable you to establish His purpose on earth. For me, it is truly an honor to serve God and experience what I am experiencing right now."

God truly never short-changes the faithfulness of his servants, and by the end of 2006, the youth ministry in Rhema experienced an unprecedented breakthrough attendance of almost 60 youth in their special Christmas weekend

As God continues to use the ministry of Dave and Silvara as an instrument to reach the next generation in Malaysia, let's pray that He will bless and multiply this budding youth ministry mightily! HT