Health Issues and Need for Rest

- Very busy schedule even on Sabbaths (handling church programs) - Saturday AY becomes the time for physical rest (catching up on sleep) - Burn out even in church because AYP members are given the bulk of responsibilities to handle the church programs - difficulty relating to the youth (pre-college, college-aged youth), as well as other professionals who have already started their own families (busy na sa own families nila) - Mentorship programs - Legal/professional resources for those struggling with their careers (ex: Sabbath concerns, harassment in the workplace) - avenues to connect my professional expertise to ministry (ex: medical missions) AY program: giving emphasis to interpersonal relationships during AY through group sharing, discussions. Somewhat No Somewhat - outreach related to field of expertise - mentoring programs (new professionals to be mentored by more senior professionals in the same field) - workshops for upgrading financial and interpersonal skills to improve career prospects - more spiritual/social gatherings among peers Somewhat

As an Adventist young professional, it’s hard to keep a deep connection with Jesus and serve in His ministry when work as a volunteer keeps me so busy. Volunteering keeps me so busy, and when I finally have free time, I’m usually too tired to focus on personal devotions and just want to rest. The Seventh-day Adventist Church has helped me widen my perspective in many areas of life, teaching me the value of humility, just as Jesus showed. It has encouraged me to practice compassion towards others and reminded me of the importance of living out His greatest commission. As a 23-year-old volunteer Adventist young professional, I think the church and AY program could be more relevant by offering practical workshops on managing work, dealing with stress, and balancing faith with our careers. It would be great to have opportunities to connect with others in similar situations and get mentorship. I’d love to see more focus on how our careers can actually be a part of our ministry, helping us feel more empowered to serve while we work. Yes Yes Yes 1. Managing Stress and Pressure in the Workplace Practical strategies rooted in faith to handle workplace stress while maintaining spiritual health. 2. Overcoming Anxiety Through Faith Guidance on how to combat anxiety using biblical principles, prayer, and trust in God. 3. Balancing Career and Ministry Exploring ways to integrate professional skills into church ministry and make careers a platform for witnessing. 4. Rediscovering the Call to Ministry Amid Career Pursuits Addressing why young professionals often prioritize personal success over ministry and how to realign with God’s mission. 5. The Role of Adventist Young Professionals in the Church’s Mission Highlighting the importance of acknowledging, supporting, and involving Adventist young professionals in church activities and leadership. 6. Time Management for Busy Young Professionals Tips for balancing work, personal life, and spiritual growth effectively. 7. Building a Support Network in the Church Encouraging mentorship and peer support among Adventist professionals to foster growth and accountability. 8. Spiritual Practices for Busy Lives Creative ways to maintain a consistent devotional life despite hectic schedules. 9. Navigating Ethical Challenges at Work as a Christian Equipping young professionals to stand firm in their faith when faced with workplace dilemmas. 10. The Church’s Role in Empowering Adventist Young Professionals A call for churches to actively engage and invest in the spiritual and professional growth of their young members. 11. The Role of Tithes and Offerings in Financial Stewardship for Young Professionals: Explaining how tithing and offerings can shape financial stewardship and contribute to personal spiritual growth, while also emphasizing the role young professionals play in supporting the church’s mission through faithful giving. Somewhat

Because Saturday is my day off, I really feel tired going to church and I really want to sleep on my rest day. That’s my struggle every Sabbath Actually, Inlove the idea of having a small group. It really helped me to get along with the church members I hope that AY program is the same with morning program so that those who can’t come to church in morning can go to church in the afternoon to listen sabbath school, to give COP and listen sermon the same in divince service Somewhat Somewhat Yes It’s better if they have the same program in morning (i mean the sabbath school program & divine program). No more playing/game activities. I know it’s fun but not everyone is enjoying it. Somewhat

Sometimes due to severe fatigue, I just want to rest on Sabbath day at home and just meditate, without doing any chores. Because during sundays im booked with household chores. This wrong mentality affected my energy during Sabbath day because sometimes i lack the eagerness to spend time with the Lord in His church partaking spiritual food. By being proactive Improvements in program structuring that also fits to the needs of young professionals No Somewhat Yes Work life balance, Essence of Life, To whom or which should we pour all of our energy on, building relationships with young professionals No

It's a personal choice. I chose to engage, despite of the busy daily and weekly schedule at work and at home. But honestly, the most challenging for me is that, Sabbath Day is my busiest day of the week. I think the church should host/initiate career driven activities/skills. One of the most challenging issues faced by young professionals right now, especially those who are still starting their career, is the Sabbath schedule. Aside from lectures/sermons on how should we, SDA's stand on our faith esp on the talks about Sabbath, we should have a proper venue/ or whatever it is to tackle and to listen the difficulties of these young professionals on their struggles on Sabbath keeping while trying to build their career. Our problem nowadays, we easily roll eyes on those who choose their career over Sabbath keeping, without even trying to offer sympathy. I think the church should step back from its routine formal programs. Use data and make the church a foster home for relationship building. Somewhat No Yes Mental health related programs, work-life-church balance discussions, skill-based workshops/trainings (there are many to offer), No

Young professionals in AY programs often struggle to balance work, personal responsibilities, and church activities. Time management can be tough, and taking on leadership roles sometimes leads to burnout. Financial pressures and the feeling that some church programs don’t address their needs—like career guidance or spiritual growth—can leave them feeling disconnected. Generational and cultural gaps in the church may create misunderstandings, and some young adults feel isolated if they don’t have peers in similar life stages. Challenges like; Time management Lack of peer support Burnout and fatigue Cultural and generational differences Leadership pressure Navigating secular influences 1. Spiritual Growth Provide deeper Bible studies and spiritual development programs that challenge me to grow in my faith, especially around issues relevant to my life stage (like work, relationships, and navigating the world as a young adult). 2. Professional Growth Create mentorship opportunities with experienced professionals within the church who can offer career advice, share their experiences, and guide me through professional challenges. 3. Personal Growth Provide resources for personal development, such as workshops on emotional well-being, handling stress, and work-life balance, which are common challenges for young professionals. 1. More Flexible and Convenient Activities: Young professionals often juggle work, family, and personal lives, so having more flexible scheduling for church activities and events would make it easier for them to participate. Maybe offering virtual Bible studies, evening events, or weekend retreats could help accommodate their busy schedules. 2. Relevant Topics and Programs: The church could address issues that directly impact young professionals, such as work-life balance, financial planning, career guidance, and personal relationships. By offering seminars or workshops tailored to these life stages, young professionals would feel more connected to the church's mission. 3. Mentorship and Networking Opportunities: Young professionals often look for career mentorship and networking. The church could offer mentorship programs that pair young professionals with experienced members who can offer career advice, spiritual support, and practical guidance. 4. Increased Role in Leadership: Giving them the chance to take on more significant roles can also make them feel more invested in the church community. 5. Inclusive and Relevant Worship Styles: While traditional hymns have their place, incorporating more contemporary worship styles could attract young professionals who may be more comfortable with modern music, multimedia, and other creative elements in worship. 6. Social and Networking Events: A relaxed, social atmosphere—such as after-church hangouts or community service events—can help young professionals build connections outside of formal church activities. These spaces could also foster conversations and deeper friendships that make the church feel more like a community. 7. Support for Mental Health and Wellness: Mental health and emotional wellness are vital for many young professionals. The church could offer support groups or counseling services for issues like work stress, burnout, and navigating life transitions. Somewhat Somewhat Somewhat "Generations in Harmony" program: A program to bring younger and older church members together, helping them understand and appreciate each other. It bridges the gap between generations, ensuring everyone feels included and valued in the church. 1. Group Conversations Mix young and older members into small groups to talk about faith, worship, and life challenges. 2. Skill Swaps Younger members teach technology, like using social media or smartphones. Older members share life lessons, spiritual advice, or church traditions. 3. Worship Teamwork Teams of different generations plan Sabbath programs together. Blend modern and traditional ideas for a meaningful worship experience. 4. Community Service Projects Work together on activities like feeding programs, clean-ups, or outreach events. Build connections while serving others. 5. Reflection Time End each session by sharing what everyone learned or enjoyed. Use the feedback to improve future gatherings. Lessons: Helps people understand each other better. Builds friendships across generations. Creates a more united and welcoming church family. Makes everyone feel they belong, no matter their age or background. No

The church members are sometimes reluctant to change especially the old ones. This may happen sometimes but there are still few members that are very supportive. If nobody initiates, then i will. If somebody will initiate and there at least two people who'll believe and support you, i believe the church's support will follow afterwards. Best we can do? Pray for wisdom to initiate and courage to stand and take part. As a young professional and one of the "ates" in the church, one best way for that is to put in mind that AY Program is not only intended for youth alone. That afternoon is not only for them but for all. I do not see myself as separate form the youth.. I support, anf participate. In that way, i will not turn into lukewarm water. Talk and ask help for young professionals for ideas in ways we can help improve our program iand activities nside and outside the church. As you lead tha AY Program, do not equalize your younger minds to a bit older. Meaning, create program that will make all members participate-sharing, answering, lecturing, etc. I usee to ask debatable questions both doctrine and personal. I tell you, it was mind-blowing. We thought that we know all the doctrines already.. We thought we're being spiritual but actually legalistic.. That's why, let's pray to God for wisdom. And have a dynamic relationship with youth and older ones. Somewhat Somewhat Somewhat In my case, i really try my best to integrate in the AY program activities that can relate all ages. We no longer sing action songs. I collaborate with women's organization, health department. Like for example, we had our health lectures that we used during the VOY two years ago. We finished all of those last years tapping other members to hold the lecture. For tjis year, i am planning to have a cooking tips or cooking demo and healthy juices for this nutrition month. I believe that if young professionals and youth will collaborate in the Sabbath afternoon, the program and service will improve. Last December, we had our grandparents appreciation day. All ages participated.. We had our motif for dress, "1980's*. I think the church can also go with the monthly celebration in the government. This February we will talk about the different types, form, expressions and languages of love. If it's mental health month, fire prevention, father's/mother's day, nutrition month, i suggest that we will integrate this to our program. The young professionals and the older ones will be the Lecturers. I also create questions tht i may use for group dynamics. This includes sharings per group, testimonies. Mostly, members get emotional, appreciating the presence of all members. Somewhat

It’s hard when work falls on a church day, especially when I really need the money. I feel guilty, but I try to make up for it. It’s not perfect, but I’m doing my best. The Adventist Church can support my growth by providing a strong spiritual foundation through worship, prayer, and Bible study. Career mentorship would help me navigate work challenges while staying true to my values. Health and wellness programs would encourage me to take care of myself, and Sabbath observance would give me time to rest and recharge, preventing burnout. The church community can also offer support, helping me stay accountable and connected when work pressures feel overwhelming. incorporating modern issues like mental health and personal well-being into church programs could make them feel more relatable and practical for young adults. Somewhat Somewhat Somewhat I would like the Adventist Church to address topics like managing work-life balance while staying committed to faith, dealing with workplace challenges as a believer, and navigating relationships as young professionals. Somewhat

There's a lot actually. But Mostly related in work specially still doing work in Friday night. Promoting work-life balance: Encouraging healthy boundaries and Sabbath observance, recognizing the importance of rest and spiritual rejuvenation. I believe a crucial improvement would be to focus on actively consulting members and creating safe spaces for them to share their thoughts, knowledge, and feelings comfortably. This could involve regular feedback sessions, surveys, or even smaller, more informal gatherings where young professionals feel heard and valued. Many other organizations and even other mission-focused groups do this effectively. Additionally, in larger city churches, it would be beneficial to intentionally welcome and integrate regular visitors, creating opportunities for them to connect and comfortably participate in church activities. This would build a stronger sense of community and belonging. Yes Somewhat Yes Help spiritual growth, mental specially those people having difficult times and can't express their feelings. Somewhat

Sometimes I feel weak in my spiritual life because of tiredness in work and due to life's challenges I felt weary and lost in my spiritual aspect. They will support us by having a once a month program for Young professionals so that it Will help us grow our personal growth and ofcourse our spiritual life. Changes that I want to improve is that to encourage our young professionals to joined the AY program and also the young people. To improve also the program of A.Y so that young leaders will be interested to participate in any kind of programs in our church. Yes Yes Yes To have a program or activities for Young professional. Like retreat or camping, hiking. Somewhat

Time managemen Distractions and Technology and Competing Priorities Create space for reflection and worship Provide opportunities for service and leadership Relationship and Family Support Focus on menatl, emotional, and physical health Sermons and programs should speak to the practical application of faith in everyday life, not just theoretical concepts. Mentorship programs where young professionals are paired with more experienced church members who van offer career guidance, spirtual advice, and life coaching. Shorter, more focused programs Somewhat Somewhat Yes Career Guidance and Purpose -how to use professional skills and talents to serve God and others. Financial Stewardship -biblical principles of managing finances, budgeting, saving, and giving. Balancing Relationships - navigating personal relationships (romantic, familial, friendships) while remaining grounded in faith. Spiritual Growth in Busy Times - finding time for devotion and deepening one's spiritual life despite a busy career. Faith in the Workplace - stand firm in faith, and be a witnes for Christ in a secular environment. Somewhat

Physical and mental exhaustion and boredome. By giving an inclusive and practical programs that will interests me most Develop a program that would catch the interest of AYP No No Somewhat activities that are AYP friendly and activities that will catch my interest as a AYP. Topics like financial literacy, skill development, outreach programs. No