Roles and influences of the three filipino congregations in eastern Norway towards filipino youth

Abstract

The youth is the cornerstone of the society. Their fresh ideas, activeness, dynamism, and enthusiasm are strengths that the world needs to attain the primordial purpose of humanity – fullness of existence. But they are faced with various problems like social, moral, economic, political, and psychological related problems in the form of violence, unemployment, indifference discrimination, materialism, pressure, addiction, inequality, and teenage pregnancy. With this context, Christian congregations in Norway are moved to involve themselves in youth development. This study investigated on the role and influences of the three Filipino congregations in Eastern Norway to the Filipino youth. Through qualitative descriptive research method utilizing action-based research an exploration on their church roles through their practices on how they help Filipino youth on the said research locale. It involved three participating Filipino congregations interviewing two (2) pastors, four (4) leaders and six (6) youth members. Findings resulted to an intense effort and concern of the following congregations about the youth. Likewise, it was found out that the role of these churches were deeply rooted to discipleship. Moreover, effective activities and programs like youth monitoring at home and school, Bible study, sharing, worship, civic activities and community related programs were conducted to hold and motivate the youth to the church. As a result, the youth members were live out their Christian commitment through church collaboration and participation by means of their sharing church responsibilities.