Donetsk held "Don't Stop - 2012" Youth Conference (video, photo)

From April 27 to 29 the annual Conference of Christian youth "Don't Stop " took place in Donetsk. It has always been a special event for many young people from all over Ukraine, who gather to experience the atmosphere of God's Word and His Presence and to get a new direction in life.

This year's conference speakers were Victor Rudoy (Assistant to Senior Pastor of UCEC), Sergei Martyunichev (assistant to Senior pastor of  "Word of Life", Moscow, Russia), Andrei Kochkin (Pastor of the "God's Family"church, Riga, Latvia).

At the opening sessions for youth leaders Sergei Martyunichev spoke about the various components of effective ministry, the important qualities of a ministers’ character. “How to be a true worshiper of God” was the teaching of Andrew Kochkin at the master class for worship teams.

At the beginning of the evening service, held on Friday, there literally was no vacant spot left in the lobby before the sanctuary hall. Hundreds of young people from different cities were anxiously anticipating for the conference to finally begin. And at last the countdown. Only few seconds and already something amazing is happening on stage!  Bright, dynamic, uplifting praise, hundreds of young people praising God in one accord, worshiping Him in the Holy Spirit – a glorious sight! Assistant to the Senior Pastor Victor Rudoy preached that afternoon about the importance of setting the right priorities, focusing on a close walk with God every day of your life and a life of repentance.

The second day turned out to be no less eventful. Pastor Andrew Kochkin preached on the importance of prayer, followed by Pastor Sergei Martyunichev who spoke on the preeminence of our character over our gifts and talents. "God rewards the Character while this world rewards the Talent. It is important that we, Christians, were men of character, not just of talent" - Pastor Sergei said. The highlight of the conference was The Evening of Praise and Worship, led by Andrew Kochkin, at the end of which all participated in the Holy Communion as a symbol of the renewal of the Covenant with God.

The Final Ceremony of the conference was held on Sunday, April 29. Hundreds of young people went home to their cities, bringing along the atmosphere of joy and God's presence.

Besides those who were able to personally attend the meetings, some 3,000 people joined in the online broadcast of the three days of the Conference.