Eliso Beradze
I am the national director of Youth for Christ in Georgia. Youth for Christ started its ministry in Georgia just a few years ago. At this time, there are three areas that I am focused on: building a team, providing help to local churches in reaching children and young people, and developing the organization itself. We also help churches start and run evangelistic clubs and daycare centers.
When I was eight years old, I heard a sermon where the pastor explained the gospel and the consequences of our sin. I came forward to the altar that day and repented of my sins. I have followed Jesus ever since.
I began to question if I was a Christian in my teenage years. There was little freedom in the church or in my family to discuss my doubt. I was trying to think for myself, read and learn more, and ask God for help. When I became a student, I joined a Christian student group. It was an evangelical group, and quite a few non-Christians also attended it. They had so many questions. They asked about God, other religions, evolution, and how anyone could give up personal freedom and submit to God. Hearing the answers to these questions helped me quite a bit to find answers to my questions. I came to see that Christianity was logical and clear.
The opportunity to participate in the Forum equips me to be a better leader. I receive excellent teaching and learn from other people’s experiences. I can build up my network. The Forum greatly encourages me to stay faithful and continue in my ministry. I am also able to rejoice with other servants of our Lord.
My first leadership experience was in a church context, leading a youth group. Later on, I worked for a few years in IFES, Georgia. After that, I was the general secretary for eight years.
Here in Georgia, we work with many students. Students have a great potential to influence both society and the church. Better-equipped student workers can be better servants. Building connections at the Forum will help strengthen Youth for Christ Georgia, and we will also be glad to contribute to the discussions.