Silvija Ieva Kaminskaite is a youth minister in Lithuania.
When did you trust Christ?
In 2013/2014, the Holy Spirit touched my heart during a summer camp. I prayed to God and gave my life to Him.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
I was baptised in 2016. Every year during summer camp season, as I witness God's works in teenagers' lives, my faith is renewed, and my relationship with Jesus strengthens. My decision to move abroad for studies impacted my faith the most. I was far away from my home church, Christian friends and family, but through thick and thin, I decided to keep following Jesus. I feel like during this time Jesus became my personal God because I chose Him instead of worldly pleasures. This decision caused me to mature in my personal life as well as my faith.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
I hope it will help me gain valuable insights into youth ministry in different countries/churches. I look forward to talking to other youth ministry workers about problems that we have encountered. Moreover, I expect to learn new ways to attract teens to church, teach them, and mature them to be Christ's people who serve in the church. Lastly, I hope it will help me grow as a leader and mentor, benefiting the teens that I serve.
What is your ministry?
Recently, I started working in the youth ministry at my church. I sometimes lead a Sunday school for teens. I organise various events for teens, such as summer camps and get-togethers.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
Since 2017, I have been serving at children's and teenagers' summer camps. I have been a small-group leader. I have served teens and kids (usually during Sunday school), creating various types of activities for them.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
I am a recent graduate from Eastern Europe. Having only started working at a church recently, without a scholarship, I do not have the funds to attend the Forum. Investing in my training will enhance my leadership skills and equip me to guide and mentor teens, giving them tools and opportunities to develop a personal relationship with Christ. With the right training, it is much easier to help youth develop strong faith habits and discipline, which would lead to their growth as Christians. I also hope to bring creative ideas back to our church to help reach more young people and expand our outreach.
