Belfast Stake Rising Generation Welcome Elder Mark G. Stewart
The youth and young adults of the Belfast Stake of Northern Ireland enjoyed a ‘Rising Generation Fireside’ with Area Seventy Elder Mark G. Stewart on 20th January 2024. Also in attendance was the Scotland/Ireland Mission President James McCrudden, his companion Sister Andrea McCrudden, and the Stake Presidency.
The fireside was interactive, making the voices of the youth and young adults paramount to the discussion that was had. Elder Stewart began the fireside with the scripture 3rd Nephi 5:13-
“Behold, I am a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Son of God. I have been called of him to declare his word among his people, that they might have everlasting life.”
He focused on the responsibilities that come with being a disciple and member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. There was a strong emphasis on the role that the youth and young adults have as the future leaders in the church, and what they can do to make people feel included; a topic that they confidently shared ideas on. While the fireside was light hearted and relaxed, the spirit was present as important topics of the sacrament and the gift of repentance were explored.
Aiden Bleakley shared what stood out to him most during the evening: “Repentance is not something that we should be afraid of. It‘s a gift that God gives us the opportunity to repent and become better. Repentance is about turning to Him.“