YOUTH DEVELOPMENT
Young people are a central focus of CEMM. Bishop McClendon understands the unique challenges facing this generation and he provides a powerful exhortation to young people saying,
“Time and again we tell our young people what they cannot do. You can’t do this and you can’t do that. It’s high time that we start telling our young people what they can do. They can be accepted as they are. They can live lives of purpose and destiny. They can find trustworthy friendships and relationships. They can remove themselves from the pain and disappointment of their past. They can be free from drugs. They can be hopeful for their future and as the Church we have the answer for them in the person of Jesus Christ.”
Understanding that our young people are the ones who are destined to lead their generation and eventually a nation, Bishop McClendon has initiated the following programs to assist in preparing today’s youth to fulfill their purpose and destiny:
N’crease Youth Ministry
Understanding that Christians are to minister within the context of our culture, N’crease was introduced as an outlet for young people who feel disenfranchised from traditional church or who have found modern religion to be somewhat irrelevant to their lives. N’crease is an alternative to “traditional” church services and encourages the voice of this generation to be heard.
With everything from hip-hop, rap, dance, comedy, and talent shows, it breathes the true liberty given to the New Testament Church. One of its highlights includes a forum entitled “Faith Speaks,” where young people have the opportunity to directly ask Bishop McClendon questions about issues they face and receive a sound, biblical response that encompasses practical application.
Daniel’s Posse
In response to national statistics that illuminate the lack of male figures in the home and the social pressures facing inner-city youth, Daniel’s Posse provides a forum for instruction as well as interaction for young men.
During these forums, topics such as peer pressure, education, sex, drugs, and violence are discussed. Currently, more than 200 young men between the ages of 12 and 18 years old are being mentored through regularly scheduled gatherings, where participants are exposed to sporting and cultural events.
Daniel’s Posse members are also being trained in prayer, praise and worship, as well as in computers and technology so as to prepare them for post-secondary education and ultimately, a viable place in the workforce.
Philip’s Daughters
A mentorship program for young women ages 10 to 18, Phillip’s Daughters, focuses on the development of well-rounded, educated and secure young women. According to the Bible, Phillip’s daughters were women in order, who were submitted and gifted in prophecy.
Philip’s Daughters mission is to provide young women a forum for instruction as well as interaction on topics such as education, personal appearance, peer pressure, sex, drugs, and abuse.
Philip’s Daughters participants are exposed to cultural and educational events, in addition to being trained in etiquette, prayer, praise and worship. Members of Phillip’s Daughters are also trained in computers and other technologies to prepare them for a post-secondary education and a fruitful life.
For more information on any of these ministries please call Clarence E. McClendon Ministries 310-323-2600