Russian youth gather
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NOVOSIBIRSK, Russia — "Stand in the Light" was the theme for the first mission-wide youth conference held for the youth in the Russia Novosibirsk Mission. One hundred and twenty two young people, 14-18, along with 12 young adult counselors and 57 leaders, including branch, Young Men and Young Women presidencies and spouses, attended the event, held Aug. 4-7.
The conference was held at a health facility in Berdsk, a small village outside Novosibirsk. Participants arrived by trains, vans and buses; some traveling as long as 42 hours on the train. The Novosibirsk mission is geographically one of the largest missions of the Church and gathering the youth to one central location was a challenge.
Each day of the conference counselors led their groups in a short morning and evening devotional about the plan of happiness. The Saturday evening devotional about the Atonement of the Savior was one of the spiritual highlights. Offering remarks during the devotional were Elder Dennis B. Neuenschwander of the Seventy and president of the Europe East Area and his wife, LeAnn Neuenschwander.
Mornings were devoted to seminars on subjects such as scripture study, the Prophet Joseph Smith, looking your best, preparing for your future, dating and kindness. While the youth were involved in these morning classes, the adult leaders received special training from Elder Neuenschwander and President Steven C. Smith and Sister Rebecca Smith of the Novosibirsk mission.
Activities and games such as volleyball, learning to dance, life games, indoor games and a service project of painting toys and tying blankets for an orphanage were part of the afternoon activities. A participants' talent show was held with youth from the seven cities of the mission participating with dances, skits and musical talents. This show was announced by two of the counselors.
