Cheers to 20 years
Younger Generation Church [YG], the vibrant young adult ministry of the Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church [Texas], celebrated their 20th anniversary this Summer, marking this milestone with a Sabbath focused on GOD’s faithfulness throughout the years. All three morning services offered unique messages and worship music from the various eras of YG.
"Attending Younger Generation Church’s 20th anniversary [YG20] was a truly unforgettable experience filled with powerful messages, inspiring worship, and great fellowship,” complimented Dr. Elton DeMoraes, Texas Conference President. “It has been a blessing to see the impact of this young adult ministry around the world."
“I was so honored to have a small part in the celebration,” remarked YG founding pastor, Mike Tucker. “My heart was thrilled at the music, the messages, and the indomitable spirit of those who are YG!”
Throughout the day, YG recognized various members who epitomize their catch phrase, “Be Jesus, Be YG,” as well as featured video testimonies of several people who helped start the ministry back in 2004.
“The best part of YG20 was looking across the sanctuary and seeing the faces of the ‘young ones’ who paved the way for this ministry—a little older now—but still here, leading the next generation into relationship with Jesus,” lauded Bo Livingston, YG Elder. “That’s what we came looking for all those years ago, a place where our sons’ love for Jesus could grow. That’s what we found here. . . and so much more. YG is family. YG is home.”
As is characteristic of YG, the day also highlighted a variety of faith moments including: baby and child dedications, a profession of faith, and the baptism of twin siblings.
“We are so thankful for the opportunity to baptize our daughters Natalia and Sophia during YG's 20th Anniversary weekend,” shared Pastor Josue Murillo, Gulf States Conference Ministerial Director. “It meant a lot to us because they decided to give their hearts to Christ, and YG has been part of their life story since before they were born. Participating in such a blessed celebration will forever anchor their spiritual journey.”
Culminating the Sabbath, YG hosted a Night of Worship concert where hundreds gathered to lift high the name of Jesus. Billboards, posters, and photos from the past were a highlight of the commemorative reception that followed where all enjoyed birthday cake and refreshments.
“I think everyone was brought closer to God, especially during the Night of Worship,” reflected Elora Wilson, YG Elder in Training, “I've never felt so much joy and love in one room, I could feel Him surrounding us and enveloping us as we worshiped.”
“The atmosphere at YG's 20th anniversary was one of pure joy and elation as we came together to give praise for a 20-year long journey to get closer to Christ,” affirmed Elora’s brother, Dominic Wilson.
Elora continued, “It was a beautiful reminder of what can happen when we simply praise God for all He has done for us.”
“YG20 was a profound opportunity to publicly boast about our faithful, covenant-keeping God,” lauded Deirdre Rivera-Martin, YG LIFEgroup Leader, “Through our worship—our song voices and dancing before the Lord—we offered to Him our highest praise and gratitude.”
“It was one of the happiest, freest, and fullest moments of my life,” testified Elora, “nothing but God mattered.”
Deirdre continued, “Reflecting on 20 years of His faithfulness, we continue to count our blessings, though it is impossible to count that high.”
Both Kisha Norris and Karla Dechavez played instrumental roles in the founding of Younger Generation Church and served as executive producers for the 20th anniversary festivities.
“From the start of the Sabbath celebration, God was revealing Himself in each and every service and gathering,” reflected Dr. Norris.
“My heart was full seeing so many new and familiar faces at YG20,” offered Karla, “God definitely showed up. I am always amazed, but never surprised, at the generosity of our church family in helping this day unfold. God’s faithfulness over the last 20 years is undeniable.”
“The flow of the day into the concert was the perfect way to raise our voices in praise, our gratitude to God for sustaining the ministry of Younger Generation Church for the past 20 years,” continued Kisha. “I felt Him whispering, ‘The best is yet to come!’ I can’t wait to see how God leads in the next 20 years!”
YG20 MESSAGES
LEGACY SPEAKER: MIKE TUCKER
Mike Tucker is Speaker Emeritus of Faith for Today Television. For seventeen years, he served as the senior pastor of Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church, where he founded Younger Generation Church, their vibrant young adult ministry. Now retired, Mike’s career included education, medical and psychiatric chaplaincy, pastoral ministry, and television. He has authored nearly twenty books and continues to conduct seminars like Mad About Marriage and Good Grief.
He lives in Grand Prairie, TX. with his wife, Pam, a gospel singer from Canada, and pastoral care minister, who currently focuses on hospital chaplaincy. Mike enjoys ministry with Pam, and spending time with his wife, daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. He describes himself as the happiest bad golfer you’ll ever meet!
YG SPEAKER: JULIAN HUMPHREY-DAVIS
Jewlz Davis is a dedicated follower of Jesus and active member of @ygchurch. He relocated from Tennessee to Texas in 2018 to work at the University of Texas Arlington. In 2021, driven by a passion for justice and service, Jewlz embarked on a challenging journey by starting law school at the University of Texas School of Law. After three years of rigorous study and commitment, Jewlz proudly graduated from law school in 2024. Outside of academic and professional pursuits, Jewlz continues to be an enthusiastic participant in church activities and community outreach. With a firm foundation in faith and law, Jewlz is poised to make a significant impact in both fields.
Jewlz is married to the love of his life, Mrs. Crystal Humphrey-Davis.
MOSAIC SPEAKER: A ALLAN MARTIN
A Allan Martin, PhD, is the teaching pastor of Younger Generation Church, the vibrant young adult ministry of the Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church in Texas [USA]. Dr. Martin serves the North American Division of Seventh-day Adventists [NAD] as point for the Growing Together initiative in collaboration with Young Adult LIFE and the Fuller Youth Institute.
He and his wife, Deirdre Rivera-Martin, tour internationally, speaking about relationships as well as equipping new generations in Christian lifestyle and leadership. Their daughter, Alexandria, is a doctoral candidate with the Loma Linda University Health CRNA program, residing in Southern California with her husband Kevin Nye, PTA, while Allan and Deirdre continue to reside in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex.
YG20 Reflections
“Younger Generation was established as a ministry of the Arlington church for the explicit purpose of ministering to young adults who often find themselves struggling to find connection to the church. In its 20 years of history YG has faithfully carried out this mission of helping young adults to find community in Christ. By God’s grace it will continue to be a place of encouragement and connection for young adults and the young at heart.” —P. Kevin Wells, Arlington Seventh-day Adventist Church Senior Pastor
“YG’s 20th anniversary showed what YG is all about: Community and Being Jesus. It was an ‘all hands on deck’ weekend and our community really came together for one another. The video testimonials shown across all services displayed God’s faithfulness and goodness in the last 20 years. I got to witness people praying and praising together. It was truly a glimpse of heaven. I am expectant of how God is going to move in this ministry in the years to come, and I am so excited to be a part of it!” —Kellany Freitas, YG Worship Leader
“We are so thankful for the opportunity to baptize our daughters Natalia and Sophia during YG's 20th Anniversary weekend. It meant a lot to us because they decided to give their hearts to Christ, and YG has been part of their life story since before they were born. Participating in such a blessed celebration will forever anchor their spiritual journey.” —Pastor Josue and Dania Murillo, YG Digital Members
Our girls enjoy the pictures and videos from our time serving in Arlington, and love hearing their birth and early childhood stories. They're familiar with the names and faces and consider the YG Church family, their family.
Even though we moved away from Texas years ago, they faithfully watch YG worship online and love to repeat in unison, ‘BE JESUS, BE YG!’ at the end of every service.
When they decided to be born again, we considered different options together. Without hesitation, they expressed their desire to do it with the same church family where they were dedicated to the Lord as babies.
Dania and I prayed for an unforgettable baptismal experience. We are eternally grateful to the Arlington Church family for exceeding our expectations and deeply humbled by the love you have poured into our children's lives. —Josue & Dania
“YG’s 20th anniversary had the Lord’s faithfulness written all over it. It was so encouraging to witness different generations coming together and praising God for what He has done at YG. I will never forget it!” —Melody Mendez, YG Worship Leader
“YG20 was such a blessing. It gave us a time to reflect and remember, I just loved everything about the weekend. From the sermons, to the music, to the food, to seeing the OG and the new YG young people. . . it was all wonderful. I am YG.” —Linda Lauterbach, YG Lead Team alumnus
"Participating in the celebration of YG’s 20th anniversary, a ministry that has touched countless lives including my own, was truly special. Reflecting on my journey, I’m reminded of the power and impact of faith, community, and the courage needed to foster a space where young people can worship and connect with God." —Alexander Antoine, AdventHealth YG Resident
"Attending Younger Generation Church’s 20th anniversary was a truly unforgettable experience filled with powerful messages, inspiring worship, and great fellowship. It has been a blessing to see the impact of this young adult ministry around the world." —Dr. Elton DeMoraes, Texas Conference President
“The music, messages, and memories shared at the YG’s 20th anniversary celebration touched my heart in a deeply personal way. Being part of such a special event, confirmed my sense of belonging to this amazing community.” —Ally DeMoraes, Texas Conference Ministerial Spouses Coordinator
"The 20th anniversary of YG was a truly remarkable event, filled with inspiration, excitement, and incredible memories. It was an unforgettable experience to connect with my church community, serve as a greeter, and pour my heart into worship.” —Isabella DeMoraes, Burton Adventist Academy & YG Worship Leader
“YG’s 20th anniversary was truly memorable and comforting. It felt like returning to a place that had once embraced me for who I was—a place so welcoming it became a family. I’ll never forget the moment I first stepped into YG, and that same warmth was there when I came back for the anniversary. You could feel the Spirit of the Lord still present and at work! I was deeply honored to serve YG during my time there, and every time I return to visit, I always look forward to singing with my community again.” —Princess Demiar, Worship Leader/Student Ministries Associate, Rolling Hills Covenant Church
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” —Matthew 18:20 [ESV]
“I praise GOD for the honor of greeting, because I connected with so many faces, new to me, but intertwined with me through YG. Throughout the day and especially at Night of Worship, I deeply felt the presence of the Lord flow through my spirit as I worshiped. YG’s 20th anniversary was definitely an unforgettable experience.” —Nyla Francis, YG Elder in Training
"Worship for me is about giving God the honor and glory. YG’s 20th anniversary was amazing! Having an opportunity to participate in the worship experience was very rewarding. Also seeing our children participate and enjoy serving and singing for Jesus meant the world to me. The entire day was filled with love, joy, good food, and such great memories.” —Eunice Francis, YG Member
“YG’s 20th Anniversary helped me realize that at the young age of 14, how blessed I am to be put into a safe community where I can praise the name of the Lord with no shame.” —Ethan Francis, YG Elder in Training
“The slogan is more than a slogan. ‘Be Jesus. Be YG.’
Whenever I am privileged to return to YG I am reminded of God’s power and faithfulness. Twenty years ago, we had no idea that God would powerfully use this ministry! His power and faithfulness were on full display, as we celebrated the legacy of YG.
I was so honored to have a small part in the celebration! My heart was thrilled at the music, the messages, and the indomitable spirit of those who are YG!” —Mike Tucker, YG Founding Pastor
“The atmosphere at YG's 20th anniversary was one of pure joy and elation as we came together to give praise for a 20-year long journey to get closer to Christ. With beautiful testimonials—and a some great food—I'm left wondering how we'll top it come two decades from now.” —Dominic Wilson, YG Elder in Training
“I think everyone was brought closer to God, especially during the Night of Worship. I've never felt so much joy and love in one room, I could feel Him surrounding us and enveloping us as we worshiped. It was a beautiful reminder of what can happen when we simply praise God for all He has done for us. It was one of the happiest, freest, and fullest moments of my life, nothing but God mattered.” —Elora Wilson, YG Elder in Training
“YG’s 20th anniversary was the perfect day of worship to thank the Lord for the two decades of knowledge and love He has provided me through Younger Generation Church.” —Nick Livingston, YG Elder in Training
“YG20 was God’s grace personified. Through every aspect of the day (each of the morning services, the meals, and the worship night), we experienced an encounter with GOD. It is one thing to have amazing sights, amazing sounds, amazing food, and amazing community; But each of those things can be done without God. However, it’s a completely separate thing to welcome the God of all the universe into a space, and for Him to accept the invitation. At YG20, we experienced the grace that comes from our Lord choosing to spend time with us. It was beautiful, awe-inspiring, and I’m still buzzing from that weekend. I’m so excited to see how God continues to show up in our lives over the next 20 years!” —Julian Humphrey-Davis, JD, YG Young Adult Pastor in Residence
“Celebrating YG’s 20th anniversary is a memory we will always treasure; the beautiful praise music, the words spoken with love, reconnecting with old friends, and the stories shared of God’s faithfulness through the years. Wow! But the best part was looking across the sanctuary and seeing the faces of the “young ones” who paved the way for this ministry….a little older now… but still here, leading the next generation into relationship with Jesus. Loving God and loving people. ❤️
That’s what we came looking for all those years ago, a place where our sons’ love for Jesus could grow. That’s what we found here…and so much more... YG is family. YG is home. 🫶🏽” —Jeff & Bo Livingston, YG20 Acknowledgement Recipients
“Sweet friendships refresh the soul and awaken our hearts with joy, for good friends are like the anointing oil that yields the fragrant incense of God’s presence.” —Proverbs 27:9
“Through our song voices and dancing before the Lord, we offered to Him our highest praise and gratitude—Our worship was our holy offering, our way of giving back to our Creator.
YG20 was a profound opportunity to publicly boast about our faithful, covenant-keeping God. For me it was a holy moment, where I experienced the glory of God powerfully present. As we called on heaven, God answered and He spent significant time with us.
Reflecting on 20 years of His faithfulness, we continue to count our blessings, though it is impossible to count that high.” —Deirdre Rivera-Martin, YG LIFEgroup Leader & Discipleship Coach
“From the start of the Sabbath celebration, God was revealing Himself in each and every service and gathering. The flow of the day into the concert was the perfect way to raise our voices in praise of gratitude to God for sustaining the ministry of Younger Generation Church for the past 20 years. I felt Him whispering, ‘The best is yet to come!’ I can’t wait to see how God leads in the next 20 years!” —Dr. Kisha Norris, YG20 Executive Producer
“My heart was full seeing so many new and familiar faces at YG20. God definitely showed up. I am always amazed, but never surprised, at the generosity of our church family in helping this day unfold. God’s faithfulness over the last 20 years is undeniable and I am excited to see where God will lead us next.” —Karla Dechavez, YG20 Executive Producer
