09/01/2026
Look at God! We’re growing from 20 attendees to 200 at our Annual YPD Day in the Alabama River Region Annual Conference.
Two years ago, Bishop Julius H. McAllister, Jr. and Supervisor Deana McAllister came to the Alabama River Region Annual Conference for the first time as the Episcopal leaders of the Ninth Episcopal District. This annual conference is the Mother Annual Conference for the Ninth Episcopal District and the smallest conference as well.
On that Saturday, they were greeted by approximately 20 YPDers (Photographs two and three are from 2024) who had gathered for YPD Annual Day. It was a tremendous day, but Supervisor McAllister shared a vision with our young people. She told them that this would be the last time they would gather in that fashion. Going forward, our YPDers would conduct their own business sessions, participate in workshops, execute parliamentary procedure, and include a worship service as a vital part of their Annual YPD Day.
Last year, our YPDers still needed some assistance from adults with parliamentary procedure and conducting their meeting.
But this year—what a difference!
Our young people needed no assistance from the adults. They conducted an outstanding business session throughout the entire morning, demonstrating leadership, confidence, preparation, and excellence.
Then came the worship service—and what a worship experience it was! Brother Jameer Bradley was the preacher and the sermon was simply dynamic! The Spirit of God moved in a mighty way, and a choir of more than 40 voices lifted praises unto God.
And look at what God has done: we have gone from approximately 20 young people gathering two years ago to nearly 200 persons participating in our Annual YPD Day!
Look at God!
The vision is becoming reality. Our young people are not simply preparing to lead someday; they are leading now!
God is good. God is great and He is worthy to be praised!
