For five days this past summer, American Bible Society—in partnership with the Church of God and the African Methodist Episcopal Church—equipped Bible advocates to represent Christ in their neighborhoods, their homes, their campuses and their communities.

Fifty-three young adults, ages 17 to 25, gathered in Washington, D.C., for an intense leaders training program that focused on deepening their commitment to Christ, cultivating their leadership skills and equipping them with techniques to advocate for the Bible in our culture.

“We believe that Scripture engaged is Scripture lived,” says Pat Walker, senior manager, NextGen advocacy and engagement.

“This program [now in its third year] calls these young people to put their faith into action and is an example of ABS’ commitment to raise up the next generation of effective Christian leaders.”

Participants clocked in 14-hour days filled with learning. Each day began at 7:30 a.m. with devotions and introductions to various methods of Scripture engagement, including Lectio Divina and PR3(Pray, Read, Reflect, Respond).

They also took Engage Your Strengths, a resource that blends Gallup’s Strength Finder assessment and coaching with a solid biblical foundation, so they could discover their talents and strengths—and use them for God.

Practical leadership training, including public speaking, was offered, as well as biblical training skills. Attendees learned how to share their faith and determine God’s calling in their lives.

The participants, vetted by youth leaders and pastors, came to the program with exceptional leadership capacities and a distinct calling in their lives, says Walker.

“God has destined them with an intent and purpose to do something special for Christ,” she notes. “These are people who are already excited about the Bible and have a strong work ethic, keen intellect and a desire to learn.”

Cody Schoenly of Virginia came to the training program not knowing what to expect, but soon realized the trip was ordained by God.

“During this experience, I felt the Lord focusing my goals and further revealing my calling. The training sessions equipped me with great tools that will be useful for me and my calling now and for the rest of my life. … I now have a deeper hunger for God’s Word and more confidence to go out into this world and make a difference.”

Christen Bergeron of Texas says the training was “one of the greatest experiences of my life. It taught me the value of great leadership, as well as passion for God, country and fellow man.”

The training was just one of the many ways ABS is accelerating and deepening the life-changing impact of God’s Word for today’s rising generations.