Day 2 of the WAD Annual Council was marked by a powerful moment: young Kennely Chilimboyi addressed the assembly and reminded leaders of a truth the Church knows well but sometimes forgets.
During her sermon before delegates representing the Division’s 22 countries, young preacher Kennely Chilimboyi captivated the assembly with a powerful message focused on the engagement of youth and teenagers in God’s work. Entitled "Called to Mission," her sermon dismantled misconceptions surrounding age, skills, or the need for perfectionism in spiritual service. She first corrected a common perception of evangelism by reminding the audience that mission work is not solely about moving abroad, learning a foreign language, or preaching to massive crowds on the other side of the world. God calls everyone right where they already are—at school, at work, in their homes, or in their communities—demonstrating that the work of the Gospel is not exclusively reserved for pastors, elders, or adults.
Drawing from 1 Timothy 4:12 ("Let no one despise your youth"), Kennely Chilimboyi reminded delegates and young people alike that God does not wait for a person to reach adulthood to use them. Biblical figures such as David facing Goliath, as well as Samuel, Joseph, Mary, and Timothy were all called and used at a very young age to accomplish purposes of major spiritual significance. Demystifying evangelism, the speaker emphasized that mission work is expressed above all through concrete, everyday actions: checking in on a lonely person, standing up for a victim of bullying, rejecting gossip, or showing genuine kindness. In harmony with Matthew 5:16, Scripture does not ask us to wait until we are perfect to let our light shine, but simply to let it shine today.
Addressing the feeling of inadequacy that holds back many believers, she stressed the importance of authenticity. Mission is not about pretending to have all the answers, but about testifying to God's faithfulness amidst our own struggles. As illustrated by Isaiah's response ("Here am I; send me"), God is not looking for the most qualified people, but for hearts willing to serve, ready to face the discomfort or unpopularity that Christian commitment may bring. At the conclusion of her sermon, Kennely Mutinta Naledi Chilimboyi was warmly congratulated by Division leaders, who reiterated the directive to train seven (7) young preachers in every union across the territory. Pastor Artur Stele, representing the General Conference, officially presented her with a medal and the title of the WAD’s first "Messenger of Hope," before offering a special prayer of blessing over her life, studies, and family.
Ouattara Hyacinthe - WAD Communication
Email: wadnews@wad.adventist.org
