Young Adults Explore Social Justice Advocacy with Nehemiah-Inspired Sermon at Presbyterian Conference

The third annual Young Adult Advocacy Conference began with a sermon drawing from the book of Nehemiah, delivered at First Presbyterian Church in Lansing, Michigan. The message, given by Rev. Christina Cosby and Ivy Lopedito, staff members of the Presbyterian Office of Public Witness, focused on the importance of joy amid the challenges of social justice advocacy.

The sermon, part of the “Jesus and Justice” conference, emphasized the need to balance the weight of advocacy with moments of joy. Cosby and Lopedito acknowledged the difficulty of maintaining joy in times of societal turmoil, noting that many feel guilty for experiencing it.

The conference, organized by the Interim Unified Agency of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), is designed to equip young adults aged 18-35 with the tools to engage in social justice advocacy. It provides a platform for young people to learn how to use their voices and to advocate fearlessly.

Sallie Campbell, an elder at First Presbyterian Church, welcomed attendees, highlighting the conference’s role in empowering young adults. Other participants included Neil Myer, a campus minister at Michigan State University, Rev. Jimmie Hawkins, advocacy director for the PC(USA), and representatives from various seminaries and organizations such as the Presbyterian Ministry at the United Nations.

Lopedito addressed the challenges of being a social justice advocate, noting the risk of burnout. She shared the experience of many who feel drained from constant effort, warning of the danger of running on empty.

The sermon drew from Nehemiah 8:1-3 and 8-12, focusing on a passage where Nehemiah encourages people who had been weeping and mourning during a public reading of the law. He reassures them to eat, drink, and share with others, emphasizing that the joy of the Lord is their strength.

The speakers acknowledged the difficulty of embracing such encouragement during tough times. Cosby, for instance, has struggled with joy while witnessing the increasing militarization on U.S. streets, a phenomenon occurring in various parts of the country.

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