Reflection on the 1st Asia Pacific Christian Youth Assembly”

Last Updated (Wednesday, 18 December 2024 17:20)

1st Asia Pacific Christian Youth Assembly

Repent and Turn to righteousness!

I, Arif Pedro Damanik, had the honor of participating in the 1st Asia Pacific Christian Youth Assembly, held from September 4-8, 2024, on Jeju Island, South Korea.

Participating in the 1st Asia Pacific Christian Youth Assembly has been an eye-opening and transformative experience. What impressed me the most was the depth of discussion around the interconnectedness of climate justice and peacebuilding. For the first time, I realized how deeply climate issues impact not only the environment but also the most vulnerable people in society, and how Christian values call us to act in both realms simultaneously.

One of the most memorable and inspiring moments was on September 7th, when we marched alongside various organizations to promote the importance of protecting nature, particularly the marine environment around Jeju. The march highlighted the urgent need to safeguard the coastal ecosystem, including the protection of coral reefs and marine animals. This experience not only deepened my awareness of environmental issues but also underscored the power of collective action in making a tangible difference. The solidarity among participants, all driven by a shared commitment to God’s creation, was a powerful reminder of our role as stewards of the Earth. Additionally, I gained a new understanding of repentance as it relates to climate justice. The idea that repentance is not merely an individual action but a collective transformation of our communities and society was profound. It gave me a fresh perspective on how we must work together to create systemic changes in how we approach environmental stewardship and justice.

The 4.3 Peace Park visit also had a lasting impact on me, emphasizing the need for reconciliation and peacebuilding in our communities. It made me reflect on how peace and environmental justice are intertwined, and how Christian youth can play a key role in both.

I was also deeply inspired by the solidarity and unity displayed by the Christian youth leaders from across Asia-Pacific. Despite coming from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds, we all shared a common vision for a better future. This gave me a renewed sense of hope and commitment to continue advocating for climate justice and peace in Indonesia, knowing that I am part of a larger movement of young Christian leaders working toward the same goals.

In sum, this assembly has expanded my understanding of my role as a youth leader in a global context. It taught me that faith-based leadership has the power to address both spiritual and material injustices, and that it is through community transformation that we can create lasting change.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Asia and Pacific Alliance of YMCAs, NCY Korea, and Uni-Y Korea for organizing this incredible assembly. The lessons learned, the bonds formed, and the collective energy generated during this event have inspired me to take these experiences back to Indonesia and apply them to my work with YAM (YMCA AiDS Ministry) Malang. It has strengthened my commitment to advocating for climate justice, peace, and the protection of vulnerable ecosystems.

This assembly reminded me that while the challenges we face are immense, together we can build a future that is just, peaceful, and sustainable.