Year after year, the annual Youth and Students’ Week (YSW) celebration continues to grow in creativity and impact. Its novelty and energy inspire many young people to participate in the weeklong activities, making it arguably the most thrilling celebration on the PCG calendar.
Although average attendance at YPG meetings has been declining, YSW consistently attracts large numbers of youth both within and outside the Church. Social media has amplified its reach, allowing many to experience the excitement online. This year, for instance, the Immanuel Branch Guild in the Madina District captured attention with a retro-themed launch, while videography and photography across congregations were of exceptional quality.
Yet, the critical question remains: after a week of high-octane youth participation, how can the Church sustain this vibrancy and translate it into consistent engagement?
One of the core objectives of YSW is to mobilize youth—not only financially but also in terms of membership—for effective ministry. While the spotlight often inspires admiration and new interest in the Guild, the emphasis tends to shift toward fundraising, particularly during the Thanksgiving service, leaving membership mobilization underemphasized.
Funds are indeed essential, but they must be strategically directed toward human capital development and the Guild’s objectives: nurturing the spiritual, social, and economic well-being of members. If weekly meetings continue to record low attendance and commitment, then the question arises—what purpose do the funds serve?
Guild leadership must therefore prioritize sustaining the interest generated during YSW. This includes supporting needy members, creating enabling environments for growth, and investing responsibly to meet welfare and administrative needs. Proper feedback mechanisms should also be established. Reports from Planning Committees, coupled with input from agents, presbyters, and congregants, will provide a holistic view of the celebration and guide future strategies.
Equally important is addressing Guilds that struggle with participation even during YSW. A dormant Guild cannot suddenly generate momentum for a weeklong celebration. Parents, agents, and stakeholders must be engaged, and leadership gaps must be filled. As John C. Maxwell reminds us, “Everything rises and falls on leadership.”
Ultimately, strategy is the tool for growth. Guilds must return to the drawing board, celebrate their gains, and devise Spirit-led strategies to overcome challenges. As Paul admonished Timothy, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).
As we reflect on this year’s YSW, the momentum must not be lost but strengthened. Despite criticisms, Paul’s words remain apt: “Stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58).
Sustainable youth ministry requires intentional leadership, consistent engagement, spiritual grounding, and resilience. YSW should serve as a springboard for deeper fellowship, stronger participation, and meaningful discipleship.
Ayekoo to the youth of the Presbyterian Church of Ghana. May your voices be heard and your impact felt in every positive way.
YPG… Service all the way!
By Rev Stanley Toddison, Ga Presbytery P. R. O.
