› Alex Evangelista Awarded International Certificate in Youth, Theology, and Innovation

from the Minister of Christian Formation, Alex Evangelista

Hello Friends,

October seems so long ago, when I wrote to our session of the wonderful opportunity I embarked on from November 2019 – May 2020. I was invited to participate in the 2019-2020 Cohort, International Certificate in Youth, Theology, and Innovation, through the Institute of Youth Ministry (IYM), through Princeton Theological Seminary (PTS), and YouthScape in the U.K. I was humbled by SPC’s support for this program and through a scholarship from PTS.

Through this program, I was empowered, challenged, and affirmed as I gathered with people actively ministering to youth in churches who are committed to learn from colleagues in diverse cultural contexts. Not just mere values, since I had the opportunity to learn from a theologically-minded network of youth workers across national borders as I went to the U.K. in the fall. During this retreat, I developed international vocational friendships that was strengthen throughout the program (and beyond!).

The program covered four special courses: theology, innovation, spirituality, and a contextualized workshop in innovative youth ministry. I was able to engage via online group discussions, while learning from world-renowned scholars at PTS and leading innovative experts at Youthscape. Lastly, I participated (online) in the Annual Forum on Youth Ministry through PTS.

There is so much I can say about what I learned, which I hope is manifested in my ministry with youth (and if you want to know more, contact me!). Yet, if I can share one thing I learned: Youth are not the future leaders of the church tomorrow, but leaders of the church today. I’m so thankful for being a part of this program, and I share this good news with you all, as it not only impacted me, but also impacted my ministry with you all. To God be the glory!”

May God bless you and keep you in God’s presence,

Alex Evangelista
Minister of Christian Formation
alex.evangelista@swarthmorepres.org