Young Adult Christian Ministry
The Young Adults in Christian Ministries was accepted as the third division of the Christian Education Department at the 1986 Convention on Christian Education. In 1990, history records YACM as officially organized at the Convention on Christian Education at Livingstone College, Salisbury, North Carolina
Functions
The Young Adults in Christian Ministries shall:
- Serve as the policy making body for the young adults of the AME Zion Church
- Cultivate Young Adult membership in the AME Zion Church
- Promote ecumenical involvement on all levels
- Make recommendations in those areas which are Young Adult concerns to the Connectional Church
Steering Committees
- Aid Local, District, Conference and Episcopal units of the Young Adults in Christian Ministries and other Young Adult organizations.
- Develop workshops and/or seminars that promote the sharing of information on the problems and concerns that face young adults in today’s society
- Provide for the development of leadership skills and abilities among the Young Adults of the denomination. Also, to challenge their involvement in the total ministry of the church.
Membership
The Young Adults in Christian Ministries is composed of all young adults between the ages 22- 40 in the denomination. However, allowances will be made on all levels for those whose life circumstances dictate a younger age when persons are no longer youths.
Colors
The colors for YACM are red and gold. Red symbolizes power and the redemptive work of the blood of Jesus. It is also the color used consistently by all divisions of the Christian Education Department. Gold symbolizes royalty, indicating the belief in Christians as a chosen people and part of a royal priesthood.
Emblem
The emblem for YACM is a diamond superimposed upon the cross, symbolizing that Christ is our foundation. The diamond is a jewel, symbolizing Jesus, the priceless Jewel, who is our Savior and Lord. The cross is a symbol of Calvary where Jesus bled and died for our salvation. The cross bridges us to our precious jewel of salvation, Jesus, and represents the “victory” of salvation. The colors of the emblem are red for the cross and gold for the jewel with black lettering.
Theme Song
The theme song for YACM is “Pass It On” by Kurt Kaiser. Listen to the song here
YACM in the Local Church
YACM groups in the local church give special attention to the different needs of young adults. Advisors who work with the youth adults must understand the societal and developmental needs of this group in order to provide proper support and guidance. Developmental and Generational Characteristics, and Implications for the Multi-Generational Christian Education Ministry. YACM in the local church can be acatalyst for the various ministries that can be developed within the church address the special needs of the emerging adult.