For the Strength of Youth Caribbean Style

More than 3,500 youth from 23 countries participated in For the Strength of Youth. There were eight different sessions that brought young people together in faith and hope under the theme of “I can do all things through Christ” (Philippians 4:13).

For the Strength of Youth (FSY) is a special conference for youth ages 14 to 18 that lasts for five days and includes classes, devotionals, discussions, and activities, all with the purpose of strengthening their faith in Jesus Christ. Through fun, engaging and spiritual activities, the youth learn to apply this faith in Christ in their daily lives.

Held in three different locations, the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico and Trinidad and Tobago, participants gathered to associate with their peers, share beliefs, learn how to access the Holy Ghost, and receive guidance through scripture study, discussion, and prayer. Guided by the words and example of 889 young adults, the youth were mentored in how to enthusiastically live the gospel of Jesus Christ, grow their self-esteem, and convey confidence in their divine nature.

Each youth’s experience was different, but each was powerful in its own way. Following are some voices from the 2023 FSY:

Brother Andry and Sister Amarylis from the Dominican Republic, who served as married directors said, “FSY is an environment of revelation for each of the young people, they are the ones who become converted. We have been guided by the Holy Spirit. We have grown through that divine influence.”

Jose, a youth from the Dominican Republic said, “I have learned much more about Jesus Christ, and that we should appreciate much more the sacrifice He made and follow His commandments and His example.”

Amelia from the Dominican Republic and one of the numerous youths who attended FSY who are not members of the Church said, “I feel like family. I’m not a member of the Church but I feel like I am.”

Issac, a young single adult from Puerto Rico said, “FSY not only changes your testimony, but it also strengthens you. I know this because it changed me. It was at FSY that I decided to serve a mission.”

Makeda from St. Lucia said “No matter what, Christ does have your back. No matter what you are going through, Christ is always there for when you need Him.”

Marilin from the Dominican Republic said, “Last year when I came to FSY I was inactive, but it was such a wonderful experience that I became active and now I have a calling in my ward . . . my responsibility is to testify of Christ and invite others to come unto Christ.”

Deejah, a counselor from the Bahamas said, “Before I came here, I never felt real joy in my heart. When I heard others speaking about the joy that Heavenly Father brings to us, I thought, ‘let me give it a chance’ and I really experienced it... I wouldn’t change this for the world.”

Carlo from Guadeloupe said, “When we have moments of trial, it is He who helps us. Christ for me is my guide.”

Priya, a nonmember who attended FSY in Trinidad said “I came to FSY, and it has shown me that Jesus truly is our Savior. It has guided me down a path that I know will help me in my future.”

Stephanie from Jamaica said, “Do not be afraid to go on the blessed journey of being one of Jesus Christ’s followers.”

The youth of the Church are powerful. They stand as a light in a sea of darkness. Their uncommon faith and courage make them unique in the Caribbean and well-placed to have a positive impact on family, peers, and society. FSY gives them a chance to see that they are not alone, rather an army of God, and that though they are young, they are powerful and influential for good.

Elder Eduardo Gavarret, President of the Caribbean Area said, “As FSY ends, not everything stops, rather, it is the beginning of something. Continue to apply what you have learned here, and that will strengthen your testimony and will convert you, not only to be more faithful people, but people who will be able to provide a great service to the community, and not only to the Church. Let us put Christ first and follow His example.”

Sister Norma Gavarret said, “And be a light to the world. We are called to be a light to the world, because the gospel of Jesus Christ brings light.”