THEME OVERVIEW
Christmas Institute has been one of the flagship programs of the United Methodist Youth Fellowship in the Philippines since 1921. It provides an avenue for the youth to have a fellowship as they continue to be rooted in their Christian faith to grow as agents of justice, peace, hope, and love. It aims to be a sanctuary for the youth to refill their cup as they continue their Christian journey. It seeks to nurture principled and equipped Christians to participate in the church's mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
GENERAL OBJECTIVES:
At the end of the Christmas Institute, delegates are expected to:
1. Identify and assess the current state of physical, social, mental, emotional, and spiritual beings and the whole creation.
2. Affirm and acknowledge their current condition and learn to accept such situations that may challenge any area of one’s well-being.
3. Recognize God's abundant grace, love, and power that nurtures one's strength, restores one's heart, and refills their cup to it.
4. Experience a jumpstart to holistic healing through faith, surrender, and prayer in Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior.
5. Become an avenue and advocate of God’s love, comfort, and healing to others experiencing the same state.
PAGHILOM: Panahon ng Paghinga
The theme for this year’s Christmas Institute is PAGHILOM: Panahon ng Paghinga. Paghilom is a Tagalog term for healing, accentuating the importance of refilling one’s cup so they may fill others as they journey in knowing Christ and making Him known.
The past years during the pandemic have yet to be the biggest challenge of our generation. The problem in mental health intensified, particularly in most youth, due to the novelty of the situation — some may have adapted, but a lot didn’t find it easy. This problem created a domino effect on their well-being, but we must move forward. Moreover, the earth's severe degradation heightened, threatening biodiversity, natural resources, and life in general. This year’s Christmas Institute will focus on healing the youth from brokenness in societal systems and self-doubt, refilling their cup so they may fill others’, and being a good steward of the whole creation. In a world full of adversities and uncertainties, we will be the refuge of each other in Christ — leaving no one behind. Together, as Christian youth, we will strive to achieve holistic well-being anchored in faith, hope, and love.
Theme Verse:
Matthew 11:25-30 (NIV)
25 At that time, Jesus said, “I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children.
26 Yes, Father, for this is what you were pleased to do.
27 “All things have been committed to me by my Father. No one knows the Son except the Father, and no one knows the Father except the Son and those to whom the Son chooses to reveal him.
28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.”
BIBLE STUDY LESSONS
LESSON 1: PAGSURI
Scriptural Reference: Jeremiah 29:11-13
Key Verse: Jeremiah 29:11
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
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LESSON 2: PAGTANGGAP
Scriptural Reference: 2 Corinthians 12:7-10
Key Verse: 2 Corinthians 12:9
But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses so that Christ’s power may rest on me.
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LESSON 3: PAGHILOM
Scriptural Reference: Matthew 11:25-30
Key Verse: Matthew 11:28
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”
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LESSON 4: PAGBANGON
Scriptural Reference: Isaiah 40:28-31
Key Verse: Isaiah 40:31
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary; they will walk and not be faint.”
